Faculty Publications

Young Women's Knowledge, Attitudes, And Behaviors Related To Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives

Document Type

Article

Journal/Book/Conference Title

Women's Health Issues

Volume

20

Issue

6

First Page

394

Last Page

399

Abstract

Background: The present study explored 18- to 30-year-old women's knowledge and perceptions of the long-acting, reversible contraceptives (LARCs) Mirena and Implanon in a Midwestern state in the United States. Methods: A telephone survey (n = 543) and 18 focus groups (n = 106) were conducted with women across a rural, Midwestern state. During the telephone survey, women answered questions related to their awareness and knowledge of two LARCs. During the focus groups, participants were asked to respond to questions related to their awareness, knowledge, behaviors, and perceptions of LARCs. Results: In the telephone survey, half of the women reported hearing of Mirena. Only 8.0% of women had heard of Implanon. In the focus groups, most women reported knowing little about LARCs. Benefits associated with other contraceptives were not associated with LARCs. Women were concerned about potential side effects and problems stemming from using a contraceptive that is new to them. Conclusion: Increased use of LARCs would likely reduce the unintended pregnancy rate. As described, although some young women are aware of these long-term contraceptive options, there is still a need to educate women on their availability, use, and potential benefit. © 2010 Jacobs Institute of Women's Health.

Department

Department of Psychology

Original Publication Date

11-1-2010

DOI of published version

10.1016/j.whi.2010.07.005

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