1. Contraceptive knowledge gaps
- Critical Gaps in US Adolescent and Young Adult Contraceptive Knowledge in Journal of Adolescent Health
Adolescents and young adults (AYA) often face barriers to high-quality reproductive health care, especially when it comes to accessing accurate contraception information. Limited or poor-quality sex education, compounded by misinformation on social media, can leave many with major gaps in contraceptive knowledge. In this national survey of nearly 1200 participants aged 15-29 years old and assigned female at birth, respondents answered a short series of true/false questions. On average, participants answered half of the questions correctly, and knowledge gaps were more common among younger, Black, heterosexual, and non-urban participants. Fewer than half knew the correct information about not needing to take a break from birth control pills for one’s health, effectiveness of menstrual cycle tracking apps, and the availability of non-contraceptive birth control options. These findings represent an important opportunity for providers seeing AYA patients to provide accurate counseling and education.
2. Adolescent awareness of over-the-counter (OTC) contraception
- Adolescents’ awareness, knowledge, and perceptions of an over-the-counter oral contraceptive pill in Contraception
In 2023, the FDA approved the first over-the-counter (OTC) hormonal contraceptive pill in the US, norgestrel (OPill), available without age restrictions. It became publicly available in 2024. This qualitative study used text message surveys with more than 500 patients aged 14-24 years old to assess adolescent and young adult (AYA) awareness of the OTC birth control pill. Most participants (72%) were unaware of the OTC option, and many expressed concerns about cost, side effects, and stigma. In response to a specific question about anti-theft measures such as lock boxes in retail pharmacies, 78% reported such restrictions would negatively affect AYAs seeking OTC pills, citing concerns about privacy, embarrassment, and shame. The authors discuss the need for awareness campaigns and easily accessible information on side effects and cost, especially for AYA patients.
3. OTC pills and cost effectiveness
- Cost Effectiveness of Over-the-Counter Availability of Progestin-Only Contraceptive Pills in Abortion-Restrictive and Abortion-Protective Settings in Obstetrics and Gynecology
In 2023, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved over-the-counter (OTC) progestin-only pills, expanding access to contraception. This study modeled outcomes for a theoretical population of 1 million reproductive-age females and found that OTC access was cost effective and helped improve users’ quality of life. The model projected cost-savings of up to $1 billion across both abortion-protective and abortion restrictive settings by helping patients prevent unintended pregnancy, ectopic pregnancy, abortion and associated travel, and other complications. Cost-effectiveness held even without insurance coverage. The authors conclude that OTC contraception offers broad public health benefits and can inform policy and advocacy efforts to expand insurance coverage and improve patient education.
4. Managing hormonal implant-related bleeding
To continue reading, become a member today.
Stay on top of policy updates, social media trends shaping your patients’ beliefs, and the latest clinical information and research – all in one place. Your membership helps sustain tools millions of young people rely on, including Bedsider.