Feasibility and acceptability of using a web-based contraceptive support tool in a university health clinic.

Objective

To evaluate feasibility of integrating Bedsider.org, a web-based contraceptive decision support tool, at a university health clinic (UHC).

Participants

Female students (ages 18-29) seeking contraceptive care at the UHC were enrolled in September 2015 (n = 46).

Methods

Providers recruited eligible patients during reproductive healthcare visits and introduced Bedsider. Surveys were administered immediately following the visit and a follow-up 2-4 weeks later. Electronic health records through 6 weeks post-enrollment were extracted.

Results

Most patients had positive views toward Bedsider and appreciated receiving information during their UHC encounters. None were using long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC) at enrollment. At follow-up, two patients self-reported IUD use. Among those recently sexually active, use of more effective contraceptive methods increased from 65% to 74%; 11% had initiated or were scheduled to receive a LARC.

Conclusion

Bedsider can be feasibly integrated into UHC visits and may support women's selection of more effective contraceptive methods, including LARCs.