Understanding Modern Contraceptive Sources Among Adolescents: A Global Analysis

The unique contraceptive needs of adolescents are increasingly recognized among the global family planning community.  Recent reports on adolescent contraception emphasize the need for high-quality data to inform efforts to increase adolescent contraceptive use, access, and choice. SHOPS Plus conducted a secondary analysis of Demographic and Health Survey data in 37 countries to examine where adolescents obtain their contraceptives, and how sources vary by method and socioeconomic status. The results elucidate the important role that the private sector plays in helping adolescents meet their reproductive intentions: on average, 40 percent of adolescent users rely on private sector sources, with substantial variation by country. Private sector reliance is higher among urban and wealthy adolescents, but the private sector also serves 1 in 3 poor and/or rural adolescent users.  Policymakers and program implementers must include the private sector in efforts to successfully meet contraceptive demand and increase access among youth.

This poster was presented by Sarah Bradley at the Population Association of America Annual Meeting on April 11, 2019 in Austin, TX.