Interest in intrauterine contraception among seekers of emergency contraception and pregnancy testing

Eleanor Bimla Schwarz, Megan Kavanaugh, Erika Douglas, Tamara Dubowitz, Mitchell D Creinin, Eleanor Bimla Schwarz, Megan Kavanaugh, Erika Douglas, Tamara Dubowitz, Mitchell D Creinin

Abstract

Objective: To estimate the interest in using intrauterine contraception among women and adolescent girls seeking emergency contraception or walk-in pregnancy testing.

Methods: We surveyed 412 women and adolescent girls who requested emergency contraception or pregnancy testing at four family planning clinics in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The 41-item survey assessed knowledge of, attitudes toward, and interest in using an intrauterine device (IUD). Data were analyzed using chi2 and Fisher exact tests and multivariable logistic regression methods.

Results: The response rate was 85%. Twelve percent (95% confidence interval [CI] 9-15) of women and adolescent girls surveyed expressed interest in same-day insertion of an IUD, and 22% (95% CI 18-26) wanted more information about IUDs. Interest in same-day IUD insertion increased with higher education level, prior unwanted pregnancy, and experience with barriers to use of contraception.

Conclusion: Same-day IUD insertion may be a reasonable way to increase the use of highly-effective contraception among women and adolescent girls seeking emergency contraception or walk-in pregnancy testing.

Level of evidence: II.

Source: PubMed

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