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

Abstract

Objective

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.

Study Design

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.

Results

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.

Conclusion

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.