International Journal of Gynecology and Infertility (ISSN 2998-4831) (Impact Factor: 2.612) | Volume 3, Issue 1 | Research Article | Open Access
Emmanuel M Akwuruoha*
Emmanuel M Akwuruoha1*, David O Akwuruoha2, Chisara C Umezurike3, Augustine I Airaodion4
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Abia State University Teaching Hospital, Aba, Nigeria
2Babcock University Teaching Hospital, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria
3Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Rhema University Teaching Hospital, Aba, Abia State, Nigeria
4Department of Biochemistry, Lead City University, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
*Correspondence to: Emmanuel M Akwuruoha
Fulltext PDFBackground: Emergency contraception, particularly levonorgestrel-based formulations such as Postinor, plays an important role in preventing unintended pregnancies. Despite its availability over the counter in many parts of Nigeria, gaps in awareness, correct knowledge, and persistent misconceptions continue to limit its effective use among women of reproductive age. This study assessed the level of knowledge and awareness of levonorgestrel-based emergency contraception (Postinor) among women of reproductive age in Aba, Abia State, Nigeria, and identified factors associated with adequate knowledge.
Research Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 375 women aged 15–49 years using a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected with a structured, pre-tested questionnaire covering socio-demographic characteristics, awareness, knowledge of timing and dosage, mechanism of action, misconceptions, and sources of information. Reliability of the instrument was confirmed with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.87. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics summarized variables, while chi-square tests, correlation, and logistic regression were used to examine associations and predictors. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.
Results: The majority of respondents (83.2%) had heard of Postinor, with moderate awareness being most common (32.3%). Friends/peers (23.2%) and pharmacists (19.7%) were the leading initial sources of information, although health workers were the most trusted (35.7%). Knowledge of correct timing (within 72 hours) was observed in 43.7% of respondents, while only 41.9% correctly identified its mechanism as the prevention of ovulation. Misconceptions were notable, with 45.6% believing it to be abortifacient and 25.6% incorrectly assuming it protects against sexually transmitted infections. Overall, 48.8% demonstrated adequate knowledge, while 25.1% had poor or very poor knowledge. Education level, marital status, age, and occupation were significantly associated with knowledge (p < 0.05). Awareness showed a strong positive correlation with knowledge (r = 0.61, p < 0.001). Predictors of good knowledge included tertiary education (AOR = 2.84), high awareness (AOR = 2.31), and receiving information from health workers (AOR = 1.92), while misconceptions reduced the likelihood of good knowledge (AOR = 0.58).
Conclusion: Awareness and knowledge of levonorgestrel-based emergency contraception is relatively high. This may have contributed to the reduction in the rate on unwanted pregnancy in recent times.
Emergency contraception; Levonorgestrel, Postinor; Knowledge; Awareness; Misconceptions
Emmanuel M Akwuruoha, David O Akwuruoha, Chisara C Umezurike, Augustine I Airaodion. Knowledge and Awareness of Levonorgestrel-Based Emergency Contraception (Postinor) Among Women of Reproductive Age. Int Jour Gyn Infer. 2026;3(1):1-18.