Women"s perspectives on contraception : a qualitative study among university students in Tirana, Albania -- report of findings

The research revealed an unmet need for accurate information about contraceptives among women attending university. Participants noted a pervasive societal taboo about discussing contraceptives in public or with health professionals, which limits women"s options for accessing information and advice about choosing and using methods. Women expressed fear that the side effects of oral contraceptives and emergency contraception (EC) could damage their health, a common concern that affected their confidence in using these methods. The source of these fears was information from friends and also to some extent from health professionals. Further interventions should address the unmet need for information, such as by ensuring that health professionals are better informed and more accessible to women and improving communication between partners to make informed choices about contraception. (Author abstract, modified)