Partner Influences on Contraceptive Decision Making

Corrine Williams, University of Kentucky

Given the large proportion of unplanned pregnancies in the United States, despite widespread contraceptive use, contraceptive compliance is an important area of research. Reasons for contraceptive nonuse may include perception that pregnancy was unlikely; past problems with contraceptive method; fear of side effects; unexpected or unwanted sex; financial barriers; and partner’s preferences, including refusal to use contraception. The objectives of this study were to determine actual and preferred methods of contraception and contraceptive use patterns and to understand the ways in which partners may control women's ability to use contraception effectively. Women ages 18-44 in the United States were eligible for inclusion in this study (n=1261). Information on preferred contraceptive methods, contraceptive discontinuation, and partner interference with contraception will be presented. The associations between demographic characteristics, intimate partner violence and contraceptive behaviors, including not using the preferred method, will be measured using Pearson’s chi-square tests and multiple logistic regression.