Knowledge, Attitudes, & Practice of Long-Acting Reversible Contraception Among Women Experiencing Homelessness [22F]

INTRODUCTION: Homeless women are a vulnerable patient population at increased risk for unintended pregnancy and face unique barriers to obtaining contraception. With failure rates of less than 1%, long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC) have shown to be effective for reducing unplanned pregnancy rates. This study evaluates attitudes toward pregnancy and contraception among this demographic. METHODS: 52 women at the Lotus House Shelter in Miami were surveyed using an adapted version of the validated “National Campaign to Prevent Teen & Unplanned Pregnancy.” We conducted a focus group with 14 women to better understand attitudes towards contraception. RESULTS: The majority of survey respondents had previously been pregnant, with 81% experiencing an unintended pregnancy in their lifetime. Nearly 60% wanted to delay future pregnancies for at least 3 years or avoid pregnancy entirely. 89% had received a sex education class, yet less than half covered the importance of contraception or available methods. Levels of LARC utilization were low (4%), and the survey revealed a deficit in knowledge accompanied by a desire to learn more and potentially utilize this contraceptive method. From the focus groups, themes relating to factors affecting contraceptive use and side effects were the most common. CONCLUSION: Participants demonstrated high rates of unintended pregnancy and desire to avoid pregnancy for an extended period of time. Women experiencing homelessness may be excellent candidates for LARC. This data will be used in the development of a contraception intervention to address the unique healthcare needs and potentially alleviate the burden of unintended pregnancy in this population.