Acceptability of the vaginal contraceptive ring among adolescent women.
- UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
- Amanda Elizabeth Tanner, Associate Professor (Creator)
- Institution
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
- Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
Abstract: Study Objective
Although underutilized, the vaginal contraceptive ring has several advantages over other contraceptive methods that could benefit adolescents. We examined factors that may influence willingness to try the vaginal ring including: sexual and contraceptive history, genital comfort, and vaginal ring characteristics.
Design
Cross sectional
Setting
Midwestern adolescent health clinics
Participants
Adolescent women (N = 200; 14–18 years; 89% African-American)
Interventions/Main Outcome Measures
All participants received education about the vaginal ring and viewed pictures demonstrating insertion; they then completed a visual/audio computer-assisted self interview. The primary outcome variable, willingness to try the vaginal ring, was a single Likert-scale item.
Results
Over half the participants reported knowledge of the vaginal ring with healthcare providers identified as the most important source of contraceptive information. Comfort with one’s genitals, insertion and removal, using alternative methods of insertion, and knowing positive method characteristics were significantly associated with willingness to try the vaginal ring. A decreased willingness to try the vaginal ring was related to concerns of the ring getting lost inside or falling out of the vagina.
Conclusions
Willingness to try the ring was associated with positive feelings about genitals (e.g., comfort with appearance, hygiene, function). Thus, to increase willingness to try the vaginal ring among adolescents, providers should make it common practice to discuss basic female reproductive anatomy, raise awareness about female genital health and address concerns about their genitals. Providers can offer alternative insertion techniques (e.g., gloves) to make use more accessible. These strategies may increase vaginal ring use among adolescents.
Acceptability of the vaginal contraceptive ring among adolescent women.
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Created on 10/30/2013
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Additional Information
- Publication
- Language: English
- Date: 2011
- Keywords
- vaginal ring, adolescent, contraception, genital comfort, pregnancy prevention, birth control, gynecology, adolescent gynecology, public health