Contraception Practices Among Women on Opioid Agonist Therapy

ObjectiveDespite increased public awareness and use of opioid agonist therapy (OAT), there is little published data on contraception among women methadone or buprenorphine/naloxone. This study aimed to characterize patterns this population.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional survey between May 2014 October 2015 at 6 medical clinics, pharmacies, community organizations in British Columbia. Trained surveyors used the Canadian Sexual Health Survey (CSHS) collect information contraceptive practices barriers health care access. Descriptive analysis was performed subset OAT who were risk for unintended pregnancy.ResultsOf 133 respondents, 80 (60.2%) pregnancy. Among 46 respondents with recent pregnancy, 44 (95.7%) reported it as unintended. Of those most common methods “no method,” male condom, depo-medroxyprogesterone 28.8%, 16.3%, 12.5%, respectively. Only 5% dual protection barrier hormonal intrauterine method. Barriers access included difficulty booking appointments providers cost, although 97% all feeling comfortable speaking physician about contraception.ConclusionWe found that using prior pregnancies unintended, less effective methods. professionals provide addiction are uniquely positioned address their patients’ concerns contraception. Incorporating family planning discussions into services may improve understanding Addressing unmet needs enable achieve reproductive goals.