Exploratory study that aimed to explore the role of pharmacists in sexual health promotion and in the accessibility of emergency oral contraceptives without prescription.
Lafond, Josée*,1, ST-Hilaire, Mélanie*,1, Manseau, Hélène*,, 1 Université du Québec à Montréal, DEPT Sexologie, Montréal, Québec, Canada
ABSTRACT- The present project is an exploratory study that aimed to explore the role of pharmacists in sexual health promotion and in the accessibility of emergency oral contraceptives without prescription. The study's objective was to initiate a first reflexion as to the possibility to elaborate specific training in sexology for pharmacists. The following elements were considered: sexual problems met, ways of conveying information, barriers linked to the roles exercised, attitudes, women's preoccupations and knowledge level in regards to emergency oral contraceptives, pharmacists' training and the relevance of continued education in sexology. This study used a qualitative methodology based on anchored theorization. Ten interviews lasting approximately one hour, were conducted with pharmacists from the Estrie region. Qualitative data reveals the main themes related to sexology discussed by the clientele: erectile capacity and other by-products, pregnancy tests, contraception namely emergency oral contraceptives, and preservatives. Moreover, it is evident that pharmacists may take on different roles in sexual health and accessibility of emergency oral contraceptives such as referring clients, prevention, education, transmitting information, prescription as well as answering specific questions. In the exercise of their roles, pharmacists are satisfied in regards to their implication with the clientele when the topics are related to sexual health and emergency oral contraceptives. Participants identified two main benefits: a fast, available and accessible service, and the established relationship with the clientele. Barriers identified referred to the difficulty to identify confidential sites in the pharmacy setting, lack of time and the limited power of prescriptions. Participants expressed their satisfaction regarding the training they received about oral emergency contraceptives. They feel the training was complete and helpful. In fact, participating pharmacists did not show any interest for continued training on sexual health and oral emergency contraceptives unless innovative products are placed on the market. However, if continued training was offered, they would appreciate that problematic situations that can emerge in their consultations, be discussed. They also showed an interest for developing collaboration between health professionals.
Key words: emegency oral contraceptives, pharmacists, role, accessibility, education