Contraceptive Utilization Among Canadian Women of Reproductive Age: Results of a National Survey

Objective: Despite a wide range of options, Canadian women have used a narrow selection of contraceptive methods. The objective is to characterize the current contraceptive choices and adherence of Canadian women.

Methods: A national cross-sectional survey was conducted. A confidential, Internet questionnaire was administered to female members of a previously recruited research panel. Percentages of current contraceptive use and consistency of use were calculated by age group, marital status, and province (weighted by age and region). Chi-square test was used to detect within group differences for consistency of use, oral contraceptive (OC) use, and condom use. Multivariate logistic regression analyses predicting consistent use, OC use, and condom use were performed.

Results: Of 5597 survey respondents, 3253 were eligible for analysis. Of these, 2751 had vaginal intercourse in the previous six months, were not trying to conceive, and reported whether they had used contraception. Fifteen percent never used contraception. The most frequently used methods were condoms (54.3%), OCs (43.7%), and withdrawal (11.6%). Newer methods were used by less than 4%. Method choice varied by age. Only 65.2% of sexually active respondents who were not trying to conceive “always used” contraception. Multivariate logistic regression analyses found higher odds of non-use in women who were: over 40, without higher education, in PEI and Newfoundland, married/common-law, annual household incomes under $100,000.

Conclusions: Canadian women continue to use a narrow range of methods and to use contraception inconsistently. Adherence is influenced by many independent variables. Future public health initiatives should focus on raising awareness of options, increasing access, and assisting with adherence.