Understanding Women's Contraceptive Preferences

Introduction: Contraceptives are not meeting many women's needs, as evident by high typical use failure rates, method switching and discontinuation. We aimed to identify contraceptive features preferred by women at risk for unintended pregnancy and abortion. Methods: In 2010, 602 women seeking abortion in six clinics across the country completed a computer-guided interview in the waiting room. Women rated 18 contraceptive features and reported past and likelihood of future unprotected intercourse (UI). We used a multivariable logistic model to identify features most important to women who report a high likelihood of UI in the next three months. Results: The most important features of contraception to women in our sample are ease of use, ease of access, no side effects, extremely effective at preventing pregnancy and personal control over administering the method. The contraceptive methods consistent with the preferences of women in our sample are the ring, patch, pill, and emergency contraception. An over-the-counter oral contraceptive and once per sex act pill would meet more of women's preferences than available methods. Women who prefer a method used only when they are going to have sex are more likely to report that they will engage in UI in the future (OR 3.33, p-value < .001). Conclusion: Providing women with contraceptive methods that meet their needs may improve consistency and duration of use.