Uptake and adherence to long-acting reversible contraception post-abortion

BackgroundThis study aimed to increase use of long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods by women post-abortion.Study DesignTen-week intervention at a public abortion clinic involving free access to three LARC methods (DMPA, LNG-IUS, Multiload Cu375); posters promoting LARC; updated information for clinic staff. Outcome measures: change in the proportion of women choosing LARC prior to and during the intervention; rate of follow-up and method retention at 6 weeks and at 6 months post-abortion.ResultsUse of post-abortion LARC increased significantly from 44% at baseline (226/510) to 61% (310/510) during the intervention (p<.001). Use of LNG-IUS increased almost sixfold from 6% to 36%. Follow-up rates were 71% at 6 weeks (221/310) and 74% at 6 months (184/249). Method retention was 89% at 6 weeks (197/221) and 86% at 6 months (159/184).ConclusionUptake of LARC by women post-abortion can be achieved by increasing access to these methods — by eliminating cost and raising awareness and benefits of long-acting methods among both clinicians and patients.