Trends in contraceptive method of use by California family planning clinic clients aged 10-55, 1976-1979

The types of primary contraceptive method chosen by women seeking services in California family planning clinics are reviewed for the years 1976-1979. Of most significance was the decline in the use of oral contraceptives (OC) and the concurrent rise in nonprescription methods at all ages. A striking difference in OC use between the earlier and latter time periods was noted for women age 40 and older.