Changes in contraceptive method mix following the Colorado Family Planning Initiative

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Public Health Policy
• Contraceptive Technology

Background:

• The Colorado Family Planning Initiative (CFPI) aimed to reduce barriers to contraceptive access.
• Understanding changes in contraceptive method use is crucial for public health.
• Title X programs are vital for providing family planning services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate contraceptive method use and mix changes among Colorado Title X clients post-CFPI implementation.
• To analyze trends before and after the CFPI in 2009.
• To identify variations in contraceptive uptake by demographics.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of Title X clinic visit data (2007-2016).
• Inclusion of women aged 10-49 years.
• Description of contraceptive method trends by age and race/ethnicity.

Main Results:

• CFPI implementation led to an initial increase in Title X visits, with subsequent declines for non-Hispanic White clients.
• Use of long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) increased, while oral contraceptive pill use decreased.
• Method mix changes varied significantly across age groups and racial/ethnic categories.

Conclusions:

• The CFPI was associated with increased LARC use and shifts in contraceptive method mix.
• Policy impacts on family planning services are not uniform and depend on subgroup-specific barriers and demand.
• Addressing heterogeneity in access is key for equitable family planning outcomes.