Reasons for contraceptive nonuse at first sex and unintended pregnancy.

OBJECTIVE

To examine reasons for contraceptive nonuse at first sex and subsequent unintended pregnancy among women attending family planning and prenatal clinics.

METHODS

Data come from the Determinants of Unintended Pregnancy Risk in New Orleans study. Reasons for nonuse by age, partner's age, and pregnancy status are compared.

RESULTS

Concern about parents' finding out about sexual activity was a common reason for nonuse at first sex and first unintended pregnancy. Problems accessing and discontinuation of contraception were reasons given at second or higher-order unintended pregnancy.

CONCLUSIONS

Reasons for nonuse vary by event and age at event. Providers should consider various reasons when counseling patients on contraceptive options.