Factors Associated with Uptake of Emergency Contraception among Female Undergraduate Students in the University of Dar Es Salaam Main Campus, Tanzania

Background: Unwanted pregnancies among young women aged 18-24 remain global public health challenge despite the advancements of a variety of modern contraception methods. Emergency contraception (EC) is the only option available that can be used following an act of unprotected sex to prevent unwanted pregnancy. It reduces women's risk of becoming pregnant by 99% depending on time taken. However, uptake of EC among young women in Tanzania is very low. The reasons for underutilization are not clear. None of the studies conducted in Tanzania have clearly delineated factors that influence uptake of EC among young women. Methodology: The study enrolled 384 female undergraduate students. A two-stage sampling technique was used; where four (4) departments were selected from the total of twenty-five (25) departments using a random lottery method. Then, the total sample size was allocated to each department proportional to the number of female students in the department. Secondly, study participants were selected from each department proportional to their year of study using simple random sampling technique. The number of study participants from the selected departments was determined using probability proportionate to population size allocation methods depending on the year of study. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data that was then coded and entered in the computer and analyzed using SPSS statistical computer software version 21.0. Exploratory factor analysis, descriptive statistical and logistic regressions analyses were conducted Results: Exploratory factor analysis showed that sixteen of eighteen items met a minimum primary loading factor of ≥ 0.5 and were used for further analysis. A significant proportion of participants 30% (n=46) of those reported having vaginal intercourse (n=155) in the last six months had ever used EC. Multiple logistic regression analysis indicated that perceived behavioral control (AOR=3, 95% CI, 1.52-5.54; p= 0.001) and perceived self-benefit (AOR=2; 95%CI, 0.98-4.54; p=0.046) were factors associated with the intention to use EC. Conclusion: Perceived behavioral control and perceived self-benefits were positively associated with intention to use EC. However, the utilization of EC was reported to be very low. More complete understanding of the determinants of women's actual EC behavior is vital to minimize use behaviors that lead to unwanted pregnancy