Teenagers' perceptions of unplanned adolescent pregnancies and oral contraceptive use
White, J.E.; Kellinger, K.G.
Journal of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners 1(2): 55-62
1989
ISSN/ISBN: 1041-2972 PMID: 2631927 DOI: 10.1111/j.1745-7599.1989.tb00740.xDocument Number: 378056
In Pennsylvania, 2 nurses practitioners analyzed data on 50 13-19 year old nonpregnant adolescents who intended to use oral contraceptives (OCs) for the 1st time. The nurses wanted to expand understanding of clients' perceptions of unplanned adolescent pregnancies and OC use to prevent these pregnancies. 90% were sexually active at the 1st visit. Sexual activity averaged 15 months. Since they visited a family planning clinic, it was assumed the adolescents considered OCs as a means to prevent unwanted pregnancy. Yet 6 weeks after the initial visit, 13% had either already stopped or had not even begun using OCs. In 3 cases, pregnancy or medical advice were the reasons for discontinuation. Only 30% used any contraceptive during their 1st and last sexual intercourse. Nevertheless they did perceive an unplanned pregnancy as serious and considered themselves susceptible. They even tended to believe OC use was beneficial to their relationships with their partners. Psychosocial and physical barriers to OC use included perception by other people that taking OCs indicated plans to have sexual intercourse and worries about side effects. At least 1 event (mean=2.7) cued 94% to visit the family planning clinic. The most common cues were a friend's pregnancy and a friend's suggestion. These results and results from other studies should guide nurse practitioners on how to counsel adolescents. Specifically they should concentrate more on perceptions rather than anatomy and physiology. They should follow up with participants within the last few weeks which may increase contraception continuation.