Research Day
IMPACT OF PATIENT PROVIDER RELATIONSHIP ON POST-PARTUM CONTRACEPTION CHOICE
Document Type
Abstract
Date
2021
Abstract
Introduction: Post-partum contraception choice is an important predictor of effective family planning. Individuals utilizing the least effective forms of contraception have the highest rates of unplanned pregnancies and short interpregnancy intervals which contribute to poor birth outcomes. Patients with quality patient:provider relationships are more likely to use and be comfortable talking about contraception.
Objective: To determine if patient:provider relationship quality impacts post-partum contraception choice, we examined survey data from 244 women 8-weeks post-partum to assess the quality of the relationship as measured by effective communication and patient empowerment, post-partum contraception choice, and patient demographics.
Results: Of women surveyed 46% used medical contraception (sterility, intrauterine device, or hormonal methods), 21% used condoms, and 33% used natural family planning, abstinence, withdrawal or no birth control. Of those not currently using contraception, 25% were open to becoming pregnant, while 35% lacked an 8-week post-partum visit. The quality of the patient:provider relationship did not correlate with a patients choice of more medically involved contraception (p = 0.972). However, patients with weaker patient:provider relationships more often lacked a primary care provider, were poorer, and utilize Medicaid.
Conclusion: In contrast to the general population, post-partum women have increased healthcare system contact throughout pregnancy, which may improve patient comfort and self-advocacy within the healthcare system. For these women, it is possible that their life circumstances, comfort with the healthcare system, and future family plans play a much larger role in contraception choice than patient:provider relationship.