Date of Award
1-1-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
M.S. in Pharmaceutical Science
First Advisor
Erin Holmes
Second Advisor
Marie Barnard
Third Advisor
Meagen Rosenthal
School
University of Mississippi
Relational Format
dissertation/thesis
Abstract
The recent availability of over-the-counter oral contraceptives eliminates many barriers to accessing birth control. Even with this easier accessibility, pharmacists can still play an important role in educating users, especially adolescents and young adults. However, hesitation to reach out to pharmacists among younger populations has been documented. Additionally, little is known about the underlying driver of this hesitation.
This study aimed to examine predictors of young females’ willingness to seek assistance from pharmacists for over-the-counter oral contraceptive use and to determine the difference in the effect of these predictors between adolescents (age 16 to 17) and young women (age 18 to 24).
A cross-sectional survey was designed to collect the intention to seek assistance from pharmacists, guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior. The sample was collected from a national online panel by Qualtrics. Females aged 16 to 24 were eligible to participate. Factor analysis followed by structural equation modeling was used to understand the predictors of their intention.
A total of 697 responses were eligible for data analysis. The psychometric properties were evaluated using 210 responses, with exploratory factor analysis. The reduced model was used to test hypotheses. Among the 487 responses, most were White (46.2%), and currently resided in the South (44.35%). They also demonstrated moderate levels of health literacy and digital health literacy. They also reported moderate interest in using over-the-counter oral contraceptives. Overall, subjective norms (��=0.450, p<0.001) and attitudes (��=0.363, p<0.001) had a significant positive impact on their intention. When compared between adolescents and young adults, the effects of subjective norms and attitudes remained significant. The effect of perceived control on intention among adolescents (��=-0.400, p=0.085) was found to be significantly different than that among young adults (��=0.024, p=0.831).
These findings shed light on the importance of subjective norms and attitudes among young populations. Intervention programs should aim to highlight the value and benefits of seeking help from pharmacists while addressing their concerns about potential judgment from others. Involving family and friends should be a priority to show their support and encourage acceptance of consulting pharmacists for information.
Recommended Citation
Leong, Ivy, "Asking Pharmacists About Over-The-Counter Oral Contraceptives: Intention Among Adolescents and Young Women" (2025). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 3318.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/etd/3318