
Panagiotis Tsikouras
Democritus University of Thrace, GreecePresentation Title:
Ten-year experience of emergency contraception used methods in a family planning center in Greece
Abstract
Emergency contraception encompasses all methods utilised to prevent unintended pregnancy following unprotected sexual intercourse or when protection has been incomplete or has failed. Despite contraception being an integral aspect of contemporary life, insufficient information available to women—or ideally, couples—often results in errors and oversights. These can have adverse consequences for their physical and mental health as well as for their family planning efforts. This study provides a comprehensive analysis and commentary on the emergency contraception methods employed at the Family Planning Centre of the University Gynaecology and Obstetrics Clinic at the Democritus University of Thrace.Material and methods In a retrospective study conducted at the Center for Family Planning of Democritus University of Thrace (DUTh) in Greece, from March 2014 to October 2024 160 women aged 16-29 were surveyed. The effectiveness of a single dose of ulipristal acetate (30mg) versus levonogestrel (1.5mg) was examined in 120 women who presented for emergency contraception within 24-120 hours (1-5 days) after unprotected intercourse. In addition, the effectiveness of intrauterine copper coils as emergency contraception within the same 24-120 hours window was studied in 40 women aged 19-24. Only, women with a stable cycle of 24-35 (+/-5) days, without recent use of hormonal contraception, participated. Results: The primary reasons for attending the family planning center were condom failure (68.75%, 110 women), missed oral contraceptive doses in 20 women (12.5%), and unprotected sexual intercourse (18.75%, 30women). In the main efficacy analysis, the pregnancy rate was significantly lower than the expected rate in the absence of emergency contraception (0.9% vs. 6.8%). The data showed that both ulipristal acetate and levonogestrel prevented 99% of expected pregnancies. One pregnancy was recorded in both the levonogestrel group and the ulipristal acetate group, while no pregnancy and no side effects were observed in the intrauterine device group. The best method in effectiveness of emergency contraception is IUD placement as is evident by the study. The methods of emergency contraception mentioned have no contraindications and no significant side effects in all age groups. Conclusion: It is essential to establish Family Planning Centres specifically designed for teenagers, and this should be prioritised by all governments.Family Planning Centres play a crucial role in delivering effective sexual health services, particularly supporting young women in maintaining a healthy sex life while ensuring reliable contraceptive options.
Biography
Will be updated soon.