Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 29, 2025
High-throughput Antiviral Assays to Screen for Inhibitors of Zika Virus Replication
Published on: October 30, 2021
Long-acting reversible contraception use and unmet desire among patients after the Zika Contraception Access Network
Andrea Stewart1, Lisa Romero2, Katherine Kortsmit2
1Division of Reproductive Health, CDC, Atlanta, GA, United States; Epidemic Intelligence Service, CDC, Atlanta, GA, United States.
Objectives:
To describe unmet desire for long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) after the Zika Contraception Access Network (Z-CAN) in Puerto Rico during the 2016-2017 Zika outbreak.
Study Design:
Z-CAN patients completed surveys about contraception experiences over a 3-year period.
Results:
Of 1809 respondents, 3% never used LARC but reported wanting it since their initial visit. As reasons for not getting LARC, nearly 50% indicated a provider-related reason and 25% reported cost.
Conclusions:
Few Z-CAN patients who never used LARC had unmet desire. Provider training in contraception guidelines and strategies to address costs can expand access to the full range of reversible contraception.
Implications:
Three years after a short-term program provided reversible contraception in Puerto Rico, few respondents had never used but wanted a long-acting reversible contraception method. Nearly half reported provider-related reasons for not receiving long-acting reversible contraception, and 25% reported cost. Provider awareness of contraceptive guidance and method availability can support client-centered care.
