Uptake and adherence to long-acting reversible contraception post-abortion

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Contraception
• Public Health Interventions

Background:

• Post-abortion care presents a critical opportunity to increase uptake of long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC).
• Previous studies indicate lower LARC utilization in this demographic, highlighting a need for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention designed to increase LARC use among women following an abortion.
• To assess the impact of improved access and awareness on LARC method selection and continuation.

Main Methods:

• A 10-week intervention was implemented at a public abortion clinic.
• Intervention components included free access to three LARC methods (DMPA, LNG-IUS, Multiload Cu375), promotional posters, and updated staff information.
• Outcomes measured included changes in LARC proportion, follow-up rates, and method retention at 6 weeks and 6 months post-abortion.

Main Results:

• Post-abortion LARC use significantly increased from 44% at baseline to 61% during the intervention (p<.001).
• Use of the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) increased sixfold, from 6% to 36%.
• Method retention rates were high, with 89% at 6 weeks and 86% at 6 months.

Conclusions:

• Increasing access to LARC methods, by eliminating cost and enhancing awareness among clinicians and patients, can significantly improve post-abortion LARC uptake.
• Interventions focusing on accessibility and education are effective in promoting the use of long-acting reversible contraceptives in post-abortion care settings.