Influences on previous contraceptive use/non-use in pregnant 16–19 year olds

Abstract

Seventy-nine pregnant women aged between 16 and 19 years were given in-depth interviews on a wide range of topics in late pregnancy. The data reported here describe influences on their contraceptive use prior to pregnancy. Four orientations to pregnancy which influenced women's contraceptive use at conception are identified. Various other factors which influenced contraceptive non-use are described. Some of these factors are age-specific, while others would apply equally to older women. Knowledge of contraception was virtually universal in the sample. Women had not become pregnant through ignorance. It is argued that reasons for pregnancy in women who are under 20 years of age can only be understood if contextual factors (such as employment careers and relationships with male partners) are taken into account.