Understanding Emergency Contraception Practice in Ghana: A Theory-Based Approach

Andreea A. Creanga, Johns Hopkins University
Saifuddin Ahmed, Johns Hopkins University

This analysis employs structural equation models to test whether the theory of planned behavior (TPB) can be applied to explain intended use and provision of emergency contraception (EC) among family planning (FP) clients and by providers in Kumasi, Ghana. We use data from two cross-sectional surveys conducted in Kumasi in 2008; interviews were conducted with 992 clients attending the FP clinic at Komfo-Anokye Teaching Hospital and 600 FP providers. Extended TPB models including socio-demographic characteristics, EC knowledge and either experiential (for clients) or work-related (for providers) variables to explain 34% and 36% of the variance in clients’ and providers’ behavioral intentions, respectively. Clients’ perceived behavioral control over using EC and providers’ attitudes toward EC appear to be the most important predictors of their intentions to use and offer EC, respectively. Personal forces are stronger than social forces when it comes to self-reported intentions to use or provide EC in Kumasi, Ghana.