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Determinants of emergency contraceptive use among female senior high school students in the Akuapem south municipality, Ghana

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigated the knowledge, awareness, and use of emergency contraceptives (ECs) among female Senior High School students in the Akuapem South Municipality of Ghana, guided by the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB). A cross-sectional quantitative design was employed, surveying 300 students from two schools. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire and analyzed with descriptive statistics and regression models. Results showed while awareness of ECs was high (98%), its actual use was moderate (50%). Attitude (p<0.001) and subjective norms (p<0.001) significantly predicted intention, while perceived behavioural control (p<0.005) predicted actual use of emergency contraceptives. Mean construct scores reflected positive attitudes (M=3.9), low subjective norms (M=2.7), moderate perceived control (M=3.5), weak intentions (M=2.8), and low reported behaviour (M=2.6). Cultural, religious, and moral concerns were major deterrents to EC use. The findings highlighted the need for culturally sensitive interventions to: bridge the gap between awareness and effective use of ECs, that would help reduce unintended pregnancies among students (including adolescents) in Ghana.

Source: African Journal of Reproductive Health

DOI: 10.29063/ajrh2026/v30i1.9

Authors: Cynthia Gadegbeku, Cynthia Bediako, Fortune Djirackor, Frank Asempah, Frank Asempah

Institution: University of Ghana

Language: English

Topic: Reproductive Health and Contraception

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Quality education

Open Access status: diamond

Funder: University of Ghana