CONTEXT

Early access to contraception may increase postpartum contraceptive use. However, little is known about women's experiences receiving their desired method at the first postpartum visit or how access is associated with use.

METHODS

In a 2014–2016 prospective cohort study of low‐income Texas women, data were collected from 685 individuals who desired a reversible contraceptive and discussed contraception with a provider at their first postpartum visit, usually within six weeks of birth. Women's experiences were captured using open‐ and closed‐ended survey questions. Thematic and multivariate logistic regression analyses were employed to examine contraceptive access and barriers, and method use at three months postpartum.

RESULTS

Twenty‐three percent of women received their desired method at the first postpartum visit; 11% a prescription for their desired pill, patch or ring; 8% a method (or prescription) other than that desired; and 58% no method. Among women who did not receive their desired method, 44% reported clinic‐level barriers (e.g., method unavailability or no same‐day provision), 26% provider‐level barriers (e.g., inaccurate contraceptive counseling) and 23% cost barriers. Women who used private practices were more likely than those who used public clinics to report availability and cost barriers (odds ratios, 6.4 and 2.7, respectively). Forty‐one percent of women who did not receive their desired method, compared with 86% of those who did, were using that method at three months postpartum.

CONCLUSION

Eliminating the various barriers that postpartum women face may improve their access to contraceptives. Further research is needed to improve the understanding of clinic‐ and provider‐level barriers.