Pregnancy Intentions, Long‐Acting Contraceptive Use, and Rapid Subsequent Pregnancies Among Adolescent and Adult First‐Time Mothers

PROBLEM:  Greater understanding is needed related to qualitatively assess pregnancy intentions and rapid subsequent pregnancies among adolescent and adult mothers. METHODS:  Four‐site prospective study of 227 adolescent and adult mothers. Data were analyzed to understand the relationship between pregnancy intentions, adolescent status, and use of long‐acting contraceptives and rapid subsequent pregnancy. FINDINGS:  The findings from this study provide evidence of the importance of goal‐oriented pregnancy intentions, long‐acting contraceptive use, and older age in delaying a second pregnancy. CONCLUSION:  Findings reveal the need for clinician awareness of the qualitative pregnancy intentions of young women and potential desired use of long‐acting contraceptives.