Factors influencing young women’s contraceptive choices

Abstract

Background and objectives Australia’s high rate of unintended pregnancy could be lowered by increasing long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) use. Influences on Australian women’s choice of less effective methods are not well understood. This qualitative study explored factors that influence young women’s contraceptive choices. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with women aged 18-24 years until data saturation. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and thematically analysed. Results Contraceptive choice was influenced by factors including contraceptive knowledge, side effects, cultural norms, fear, control and social context. Women often initiated contraceptive use for non-contraceptive purposes such as management of acne or period pain, and failed to reconsider new methods when needing contraception, revealing one possible explanation for low LARC use. Discussion Findings indicate that women’s contraceptive choices need regular review. Information about relative efficacy of contraceptive methods is necessary should women’s reasons for using contraception include birth control in addition to non-contraceptive benefits.