Incorporating Black women's perspectives into long-acting reversible contraception implementation

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Implementation Science
• Health Disparities

Background:

• Increasing the use of highly effective contraceptives among minoritized and low-income women is a public health priority.
• Understanding women's perspectives is crucial for developing effective implementation strategies.
• Urban, predominantly Black women's views on contraception are essential for tailored interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore urban, predominantly Black women's opinions and beliefs regarding contraceptive use.
• To inform implementation strategies aimed at increasing the uptake of highly effective contraceptives.
• To address the needs of minoritized and low-income women.

Main Methods:

• Focus group interviews were conducted with women aged 18-35.
• Participants were recruited from clinical sites in predominantly African American urban neighborhoods in a southeastern US city.
• A community-based organization focused on women and infant health collaborated on the study.

Main Results:

• Healthcare providers should frame contraceptive discussions within patients' personal goals.
• Acknowledging and respecting women's support systems for childbearing and childcare is important.
• Clinicians are viewed as trusted information sources, but must address misinformation about contraception.

Conclusions:

• Understanding women's perspectives on contraceptive use is vital for implementation science.
• Insights gained can inform patient-centered counseling and educational strategies.
• Addressing concerns specific to minoritized women can help overcome barriers to contraceptive use.