Pill knowledge amongst oral contraceptive users in family planning clinics in Scotland: facts, myths and fantasies

Abstract

Objectives To document the extent of understanding about the combined pill amongst oral contraceptive users in Scotland.

Method A questionnaire was distributed to 2700 pill users in Scottish family planning clinics prior to their consultation with a clinician for a repeat prescription.

Results Knowledge was patchy and usually incomplete in any given area.

Conclusion Counselling and teaching about oral contraceptives are important parts of the clinical consultation; even if the user appears knowledgeable about their contraceptive method, there are likely to be some areas where their knowledge could be improved.

KEY WORDS:

• Oral contraception
• Users' knowledge