Effect of Gender Relations on Women's Acquisition and Use of Contraception

Rebecka I. Lundgren, Georgetown University
Katie Lavoie, Georgetown University

Gender relations can affect contraceptive decision making and use. Interviews were conducted with 265 new pill, condom, and injectable users recruited from six clinics in southern California and the Bay area. Women reported a high degree of couple communication about family planning (over 90%) and much significant male involvement in method use (75%). Language, education, method choice, marital status, and time in union had a statistically significant influence on male involvement. After three months, approximately 80% of pill and condom users interviewed were still using their method. However, 15% of pill users reported that they did not take the pill daily, and half of condom users reported using condoms inconsistently. Gender-related indices such as shared decision making, partner communication and partner involvement are associated with successful contraceptive use, when controlling for acculturation and education. Results indicate the importance of developing and testing innovative, feasible ways to reach men.