Understanding Contraceptive Attitudes and Decisions

This project examines the drivers of shifting attitudes toward hormonal contraception for pregnancy prevention or gynaecological treatment and explores how to support informed decision-making.  

Background

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Data suggests that the number of people using all types of contraception has reduced over the last 10 years, and particularly away from hormonal contraception in younger age groups. Hormonal contraception can effectively prevent pregnancy and manage gynaecological symptoms like heavy bleeding or pain. However, users sometimes report negative side effects or have concerns about using it based on what they have heard from others. Currently, it is unclear what is driving the changes in patterns of hormonal contraception use, how individuals weigh up these factors in their decisions or how best to effectively support them in their choices.   

Methods  

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We will review UK literature from the past decade on contraception and hormonal medication for pregnancy prevention and gynaecological treatment, identifying key decision-making factors and remaining evidence gaps. 

Using secondary data from the 2023 Women’s Reproductive Health Survey (nearly 60,000 respondents in England), we will analyse reasons for stopping contraception, differences across groups, and future contraceptive choices after stopping. 

Building on this, we will collect social media and qualitative discussion data to examine contraceptive information sources, decision-making trade-offs, and inequalities in access to information and support. 

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Policy Relevance & Dissemination  

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This project will inform policymakers and service planners on contraceptive trends, key influences, and group differences. It will support tailored services and evidence-based guidance to help individuals make informed choices and balance different priorities to achieve their desired outcome with their contraceptive choices.   

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The NIHR Policy Research Unit in Reproductive Health is part of the NIHR and hosted by UCL.