Perceptions of Pregnancy and Contraceptive Use: An In-Depth Study of Women in Los Angeles Methadone Clinics

In 2016, 2.1 million people in the United States were estimated to have an opioid use disorder. Although the disorder can be safely and effectively treated with prescription methadone, treatment is potentially long term and may span women's peak childbearing ages. Little is known about women's reproductive health needs while on methadone.

We interviewed 22 sexually active, nonpregnant women ages 21-39 years at two Los Angeles methadone clinics in 2016. The interviews were transcribed and coded by four researchers using thematic and open coding techniques.

One-half of the women were nulliparous and 17 were in stable, monogamous relationships with men. Women reported a range of feelings and perceptions about pregnancy, but nearly all wanted to delay pregnancy until discontinuing methadone. However, many women indicated limited interest in preventing pregnancy because of the relative stability of their relationships, fear of infertility, and low perceived risk of pregnancy. These factors influenced contraceptive use.

Women described mixed feelings about pregnancy and many ultimately felt that an unplanned pregnancy would be acceptable in the context of their relationships and uncertain fertility. These findings provide context for previous quantitative findings that women in methadone treatment have higher rates of unintended pregnancy and lower rates of contraceptive use than the general population.

Accurate information about pregnancy in the context of methadone treatment may help women to make proactive family planning decisions. Health care providers should discuss the guidelines for pregnancy on methadone and offer a range of options to help women achieve their reproductive goals.