Da contracepção à gestação: como é a orientação farmacêutica?

Abstract

Sexual and reproductive health intersects with women’s health, encompassing conception, contraception, and pregnancy. Medication use is an important aspect in this context, as is the role of pharmacists. This study aimed to evaluate the profile of pharmaceutical guidance related to medications used for contraception and during pregnancy. It was a cross-sectional study based on an electronic survey completed by pharmacists working in Brazil. Survey responses related to guidance on hormonal and emergency contraception, as well as on medication use during pregnancy, were described. Factors associated with providing such guidance were assessed using logistic regression in univariate and multivariate analyses, with a 5% significance level. Among the 2,350 respondents, 960 (40.9%) reported providing guidance on emergency contraception; 1,070 (45.5%) on contraceptives; and 1,072 (45.6%) on medication use during pregnancy. Providing guidance on emergency contraception was positively associated with being male, holding a master’s or postdoctoral degree, and working in private or public pharmacies. Providing guidance on contraceptives and medication use during pregnancy was also positively associated with being male, working in private or public pharmacies, and having a consultation office in the workplace. The findings demonstrate a considerable frequency of pharmaceutical guidance in women’s sexual and reproductive health, highlighting its relevance. The associated factors reveal both strengths to be consolidated and weaknesses to be addressed, emphasizing the need for initiatives that promote the development and strengthening of pharmaceutical practice in this field.