From the cinema screen to the nurse's office: debunking myths about emergency contraception as a professional competence

Objective: To determine the role of nurses in debunking myths about emergency contraception and forming evidence-based understanding among patients of various age groups. Materials and methods: Analysis of scientific literature on emergency contraception issues was conducted, data from a nationwide sociological study by Gedeon Richter company among 1,300 women aged 18–45 years (May–June 2025) were examined, and the influence of cinematographic images on reproductive health stereotype formation was considered. Results: According to the study data, 91.1% of Russian women have encountered unprotected sexual intercourse at least once, and 62% have used emergency contraception. It was established that the main motive for using emergency contraceptive drugs is conscious family planning (47.8% – "children should be wanted"). Persistent misconceptions about the mechanism of action and safety of the drugs were identified. Conclusions: Nurses occupy a significant place in the reproductive education system, working as part of a team with the attending physician and having the opportunity to debunk myths about sexual issues in a confidential environment. Using elements of popular culture in educational work increases the effectiveness of communication with patients.