Contraception among women on probation and parole on the United States-Mexico border

Objective Effective contraception prevents unintended pregnancy which disproportionately affects women in the criminal justice system. This study examined selected variables associated with contraceptive use by women on probation and parole living on the United States-Mexico border. Design This quantitative correlational study examined individual and interpersonal variables-age, parity, ethnicity, prior contraception, self-efficacy, pregnancy attitudes, and reproductive autonomy-that may influence contraception among 52 women under community supervision. Measures Variable were examined with bivariate, multivariate analyses, and hierarchical logistic regression. Data were collected from a demographic and contraceptive use survey, and validated scales measuring reproductive autonomy and pregnancy attitudes. Results Contraceptive methods were used by 89% of the women; 65% used effective methods, but this decreased to 35% among those released within the past year. Reproductive autonomy was associated with effective contraceptive use. Prior contraception and contraceptive self-efficacy were significant, but wide confidence intervals suggested instability. The remaining variables were insignificant. Conclusion No known studies have examined contraception use among women on probation and parole on the border. More women used some form of contraception than might be predicted. Collaborative efforts between correctional facilities and the community are needed to expand access to contraception.