Patterns and Trends in Adolescents' Contraceptive Use and Discontinuation in Developing Countries and Comparisons With Adult Women

TLDR

The study used Demographic and Health Survey data from more than 40 countries to assess contraceptive use, discontinuation, switching, and failure among 15‑to‑19‑year‑old women, comparing trends with older women. Adolescent contraceptive use rose markedly over the past two decades, outpacing older women, yet adolescents also had higher rates of discontinuation and failure, implying that expanding demand will strain family‑planning services.

Abstract

Demographic and Health Survey data from more than 40 countries were used to examine the proportions of 15- to 19-year-old women who are currently married or are unmarried but sexually active; their rates of contraceptive adoption current use discontinuation method switching and contraceptive failure; trends in these indicators; and comparisons with older women. In many countries the proportion of adolescent women using contraceptives increased substantially over the last two decades. Prevalence among adolescents increased faster than among older women. Greater proportions of adolescents than of older women discontinued using a contraceptive method within a year or experienced contraceptive failure. The authors conclude that expanded demand for contraceptive supplies services and information can be expected to challenge the preparedness capacity and resources of existing family planning programs and providers.