Qualitative study on stigma as a barrier to emergency contraceptive pill use among university students in the Lango subregion, Uganda.

Objective: The aim of the current study was twofold: to understand the nature and extent of stigma and to learn the reasons behind the decision not to use emergency contraceptive pills among university students in the Lango subregion of Uganda.

Design: An exploratory qualitative study design.

Setting: The study was carried out among university students in Lango subregion of Uganda.

Participants: 40 female university students across four universities.

Main Outcome Measures: Stigma.

Results: Participants (n=40) aged 19-26 exhibited generally positive attitudes towards emergency contraceptive pills, recognising them as empowering and essential. Stigma, however, emerged as a substantial barrier manifested in societal judgements and negative perceptions. Themes included the positive attitude towards emergency contraceptive pills, perceptions of peers and the general public, and perceptions of health service providers.

Conclusion: Stigma significantly impedes emergency contraceptive pill use among university students in the Lango subregion, Uganda. Positive attitudes towards the pills contrast with societal judgements and provider stigmatisation. Tailored interventions addressing knowledge gaps, societal perceptions and healthcare system challenges are crucial for improving emergency contraceptive pill acceptability and utilisation among university students.

Competing Interests: Competing interests: None declared.

(© Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2024. Re-use permitted under CC BY-NC. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.)