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.