Table 2 Themes arising from in-depth interviews

Unwanted and unplanned context of sexual encounters

Coerced or pressured sex

Sex in return for financial benefits

Impromptu sex

Popularity of ECPs

Post-coital method

Diffusion of information about it

Can take without partner's knowledge

ECPs easier to take than OCPs because fewer pills

ECPs as back-up for traditional methods

Lack of understanding of calendar method

Lack of trust in partners to practice withdrawal correctly

ECP can be used as backup in case of failure

Negative perception of side effects of ECPs

Dislike/fear of change in menses

Fear/lack of clarity of side effects

Fear of “addiction” / pills will become ineffective

Misinformation about ECPs

Lack of clarity as to which drugs are ECPs vs OCPs

Misunderstanding about how to take ECPs

Pharmacist providing incorrect information

Difficulty in obtaining ECPs due to cost, shyness, or pharmacist refusal to sell

Negative perception of condoms

Negative representation in society (representing promiscuity or infidelity)

Lack of trust in condoms

Reduced sexual pleasure

Misunderstanding of human reproduction and contraception

Pregnancy prevention myths

Lack of understanding about how contraceptives work

Lack of timely sexual health education or parental support/communication