Long-acting reversible contraception: Assessment of knowledge and interest among college females

Abstract

Objective: To implement the Long-Acting Reversible Contraception Quality Improvement (LARC QI) project using evidence-based contraceptive counseling techniques to improve knowledge and intent to use among college females. Participants: The project, conducted from April through September 2017, involved 41 female students, from a 4-year public college in North Carolina. Methods: Students participated in group educational sessions on all methods of birth control with an emphasis on LARC. Surveys were administered to group participants and descriptive statistics were used to determine the difference in knowledge scores and intent to use. Descriptive and qualitative analysis described usage of LARC methods. Results: LARC knowledge scores significantly improved. Intention to use also increased compared to reported actual use. The final chart review demonstrated an increase usage of the subdermal implant, but no change for intrauterine device. Conclusions: The college setting offers a unique opportunity to use evidence-based contraceptive counseling techniques to guide use of LARC.

Keywords: College females; LARC; contraceptive counseling; long-acting reversible contraception.