Contraceptive counseling among pediatric primary care providers in Western Pennsylvania: A survey-based study. (5th September 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Papas, Beth Ann; Shaikh, Nader; Watson, Katherine; Sucato, Gina S
• Is Part Of: SAGE open medicine. Volume 5(2017)
• Publication Date: 2017-09-05
• Subjects: Adolescent contraception -- long-acting reversible contraception -- contraceptive counseling -- pediatric contraceptive counseling -- birth control; Medicine -- Periodicals; 610.5
• DOI: 10.1177/2050312117730244
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2050-3121

Abstract

Objectives: Data suggest that adolescents in the United States receive inadequate contraceptive counseling. This study sought to determine factors affecting pediatricians' discussion of contraception with adolescent patients, with a specific focus on long-acting reversible contraception—implantable contraception and intrauterine devices. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was sent via email to a convenience sample of pediatric residents and pediatric primary care providers in Western Pennsylvania. Self-reported contraceptive counseling and prescribing practices in response to clinical vignettes were assessed. Results: Of potential participants (287), 88 (31%) responded. Younger providers and providers who had received contraceptive training were significantly more likely to discuss long-acting reversible contraception methods. Discussion of contraceptive methods also varied by both the age and the sexual history of the patient. Conclusion: Variation in contraceptive counseling potentially results in missed opportunities to counsel about and provide the most effective contraceptive methods. More uniform, universal provider training might alleviate some of these inconsistencies.