Exploring the Influence of Female Social Science Students' Characteristics on Their Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practice of Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECPS) at the University of Nairobi

Abstract

Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECPs) are highly effective post-coital interventions for preventing pregnancy. However, in low- and middle-income countries, including Kenya, women's access to ECPs and reliable information on their use remains limited due to various barriers. This study sought to investigate the impact of female social science students' characteristics on their knowledge, attitudes, and practices of ECPs at the University of Nairobi. The research was grounded in the Health Belief Theory and Risk Compensation Theory to understand factors influencing ECP utilization among young female students and inform effective interventions for responsible sexual behavior and increased usage of emergency contraception. A quantitative cross-sectional research design was employed, and data were collected using a structured questionnaire from 372 undergraduate female students in the Faculty of Social Sciences. The findings revealed that a majority of students demonstrated high knowledge about ECPs, but demographic variables like religion and relationship status significantly influenced ECP knowledge. Attitudes towards ECPs did not show significant associations with demographic characteristics, except for the year of study and family income. Most students had used ECPs at least once, primarily obtained from healthcare professionals due to condom breakage. Fear of stigma emerged as a primary challenge in ECP use. These insights highlight the need for targeted interventions and educational programs to promote responsible ECP use among young adults in Kenya. The study recommends comprehensive reproductive health education campaigns, interventions to change negative attitudes, and collaborations to make ECPs more affordable and accessible. Further research is also recommended to understand specific factors contributing to negative attitudes and inform effective policies to improve reproductive health outcomes among young people in Kenya.