Contraception
Audio Summaries

Racial and Demographic Trends in Abortion Method Selection in Minnesota Among in-State Patients at or under 11 Weeks Gestational Duration, 2021-2024

Jun 22, 2026

This study investigates demographic and racial trends in the selection of abortion methods among patients in Minnesota with pregnancies of 11 weeks or less, particularly in the context of expanded access to telehealth medication abortion (TeleMAB). The findings reveal that while TeleMAB is more utilized by older, predominantly white, and rural patients, marginalized groups such as Black and Hispanic patients are more likely to seek in-clinic care, indicating potential access inequities. The authors call for further research to identify structural barriers that may limit access to preferred abortion modalities for these communities.

Cervical preparation and induction of fetal demise practices for dilation and evacuation abortion between 24- and 27- weeks' gestation

Jun 16, 2026

This study aimed to describe the practices of cervical preparation and fetal demise induction among physicians performing dilation and evacuation (D&E) abortions between 24 and 27 weeks' gestation in the US. The findings revealed significant variability in techniques and medications used, highlighting the adaptability of providers to meet patient needs and clinical circumstances. The documentation of these diverse practices is intended to aid in training new clinicians and expanding access to abortion care at later gestational ages.

Exploring Canadians' experiences with belief-based denial of contraception and abortion care: Results from a qualitative study

Jun 15, 2026

This qualitative study investigates the experiences of Canadians who have faced belief-based denial of contraception and abortion care, aiming to understand the impact of such refusals on patients. Through in-depth interviews with 30 individuals, the authors found that denial often stemmed from providers' personal beliefs, leading to significant emotional distress among patients and highlighting the need for regulatory reform to ensure access to necessary reproductive health services. The findings suggest that policymakers should prioritize patient-centered outcomes and enforce standards that prevent denial of care based on personal beliefs.

Adolescent Experiences Navigating Contraceptive Side Effects and Method Satisfaction

Jun 13, 2026

The authors aimed to explore how adolescents navigate contraceptive choices, their experiences with side effects, and the impact of these experiences on their perceptions of contraceptive use over time. Through in-depth interviews with adolescents aged 13-18, they found that many participants switched methods due to side effects but did not discontinue contraceptive use entirely, highlighting the need for clinicians to engage in discussions about emotional responses and method satisfaction. The study emphasizes the importance of supporting adolescents in finding contraceptive options that align with their preferences and needs.

Cervical Preparation Prior to Dilation and Evacuation Between 13 to 16 Weeks Gestation

Jun 12, 2026

The authors aimed to compare the outcomes of dilation and evacuation (D&E) procedures following different single-agent cervical preparation methods (buccal misoprostol, oral mifepristone, and osmotic dilators) between 13 to 16 weeks gestation. Their retrospective cohort study found no significant differences in procedure time among the methods, and while mifepristone was linked to slightly lower estimated blood loss, the clinical significance of this finding is uncertain. Overall, all methods resulted in short procedure times and few complications, suggesting that the choice of cervical preparation can be tailored to patient preferences.

Contraceptive Use in France by Migration Background and the Role of Social Deprivation as a Mediator: A National Cross-Sectional Study

Jun 11, 2026

This study investigates the relationship between migration background and contraceptive use among women in France, aiming to understand how social deprivation mediates this association. The findings reveal that migrant women, particularly those newly arrived, are significantly more likely to use less effective or no contraception compared to native women, with social deprivation accounting for only a small portion of this disparity. The results emphasize the need for targeted reproductive healthcare policies that address the unique barriers faced by migrant populations beyond socioeconomic factors.

Informal and out-of-pocket payments for public-sector contraceptive care in remote Madagascar

Jun 11, 2026

The authors investigate the prevalence and impact of informal and out-of-pocket payments for contraceptive care in public-sector facilities in remote Madagascar, despite existing policies for free contraception. Their findings reveal that a significant majority of women reported making such payments, with amounts varying by method, indicating that financial barriers persist and may undermine access to family planning services. The study suggests that policy improvements, including transparent fee structures and enhanced oversight, are necessary to protect contraceptive autonomy and ensure equitable access.

Assessing Availability and Expanding Access to Mifepristone at Pharmacies in San Diego

Jun 6, 2026

The authors aimed to assess the readiness of pharmacies in San Diego to dispense mifepristone. Their study found that, out of 149 contacted pharmacies, only 22.1% were certified to dispense the medication, indicating that despite its availability since 2023, most pharmacies in the area have not yet adopted its dispensing.

Navigating Sexual and Reproductive Health: an Analysis of Messages sent to a Youth-Focused Textline in Missouri

Jun 5, 2026

The authors aimed to analyze the text messages sent to the Right By You (RBY) textline in Missouri to understand the specific informational and navigation needs of youth regarding sexual and reproductive health services, particularly concerning abortion, contraception, and pregnancy. Their findings revealed that many texters, especially minors, sought assistance with locating providers, securing funding for abortion care, and navigating privacy concerns, highlighting the critical role of personalized support services like RBY in addressing gaps in formal healthcare systems. The study emphasizes the importance of tailored health navigation services to meet the unique needs of young individuals seeking reproductive health care.

Consulting OB: How Indiana's Abortion Ban Impacted Management of Vaginal Bleeding in the Emergency Department

Jun 5, 2026

This study investigates the impact of Indiana's abortion ban on the management of patients with vaginal bleeding in emergency departments, focusing on how care provision changed in the year following the ban's implementation. The findings reveal that emergency medicine clinicians increasingly relied on obstetric specialists for abortion-related care, raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of this model and the potential erosion of emergency departments' competency in handling pregnancy-related issues.