Work

Birth Control use in People who had an Abortion in the Southeast Region of the United States

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: • This research explored birth control use in people who presented for abortion. • 50% of people who presented for abortion reported using a birth control method. • The most common methods reported were condoms, the pill, and withdrawal. • Race, education, and income were significant factors in birth control use. • Policies that promote effective options for preventing unintended pregnancy are imperative. To examine non-use of birth control among people who sought an abortion in the Southeast region. Access to birth control continues to be rife with barriers. There have been many studies that have examined unintended pregnancies and birth control use, but none have studied non-use among people who sought an abortion. Post the Dobbs decision, it is imperative to understand these risk factors. The self-administered survey was given to all patients presenting for abortion and consented to complete the survey while at the clinic or facility before their abortion. This study examined factors associated with non-use of birth control in people who had an abortion. Overall, 50.2% (n = 1,222) of people presenting for abortion reported using a birth control method. Multivariate analysis showed that white people were 1.4 (95% CI: 1.2, 1.7) times more likely to use birth control compared to Black people. People with a bachelor’s degree or higher were 1.8 (95% CI: 1.3, 2.5) times more likely to use birth control, compared to people without high school diploma. Those 200% or above the federal poverty line were 1.3 (95% CI: 1.1, 1.6) times more likely to use birth control compared to those below the federal poverty line. This study showed the lack of use of birth control in some populations, highlighting the need for better awareness of and access to birth control and improved education on options for birth control. Policies that promote equitable access to health education and care, and effective options for preventing unintended pregnancy are imperative.

Source: Sexual & Reproductive Healthcare

DOI: 10.1016/j.srhc.2025.101091

Authors: Jessica Knott, Carrie Cwiak, Lynn Disney

Institution: Emory University

Language: English

Topic: Reproductive Health and Contraception

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities, Gender equality

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,850