Contraceptive methods and use by women aged 35 and over: A qualitative study of perspectives
2011

Contraceptive Methods and Use in Women Over 35

Sample size: 17 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Emily M Godfrey, Nancy P Chin, Stephen L Fielding, Kevin Fiscella, Ann Dozier

Primary Institution: University of Rochester

Hypothesis

What are the perceptions about contraceptive methods and use among women with and without an unintended pregnancy after age 35?

Conclusion

Women's perspectives on contraceptive use after age 35 vary significantly based on their experiences and perceptions of pregnancy risks.

Supporting Evidence

  • Women without unintended pregnancies were more likely to use contraceptives that treated medical conditions.
  • Women who experienced unintended pregnancies often reported unstable partnerships.
  • Perceived ease of use and accessibility of contraceptive methods influenced women's choices.

Takeaway

This study talks to women over 35 about their birth control choices and finds that their experiences and feelings about pregnancy really shape how they use contraception.

Methodology

Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 17 women aged 35 and over.

Potential Biases

Participants may have differing attitudes towards contraception compared to non-participants.

Limitations

The small sample size and potential differences in attitudes between participants and non-participants limit generalizability.

Participant Demographics

{"age_range":"35-49","racial_distribution":{"African American":7,"White":8,"Latina":1},"marital_status":{"Single/Never married":5,"Married":8,"Divorced or separated":4},"education":{"Some high school":2,"Completed high school":3,"Some college":4,"Completed college or higher":8},"income":{"Less than $10,000":4,"Between $10,000 and $19,999":2,"Between $20,000 and $29,999":1,"Between $30,000 and $39,999":1,"Between $40,000 and $49,999":0,"Over $50,000":6}}

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1472-6874-11-5

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