Growing Adoption of Long-Acting Contraceptives Among Women in Stockholm
A report reveals increasing trends in long-acting contraceptive use among women in Stockholm, highlighting disparities and the need for equitable access.
Key Points
- • One in five women in Stockholm County uses hormonal contraceptives or IUDs from 2018 to 2022.
- • Women over 30 are opting more for long-acting contraceptive methods.
- • Significant disparities exist in contraceptive use among socioeconomic groups.
- • Calls for equitable access to contraceptive methods are emphasized.
A recent report highlights a notable increase in the use of long-acting contraceptive methods among women in Stockholm County, particularly those aged over 30. Between 2018 and 2022, nearly one in five women of childbearing age opted for hormonal contraceptives or intrauterine devices (IUDs) annually. However, data from the Center for Epidemiology and Public Health (CES) indicates a decrease in the percentage of women obtaining contraceptives yearly, attributed to the rising popularity of long-acting options that eliminate the need for frequent renewals.
The study, which draws on healthcare analysis databases from Region Stockholm and Statistics Sweden, reveals diverse usage trends across different age groups. While women aged 20-24 remain the highest users, younger demographics tend to prefer short-term methods like birth control pills. In contrast, those over 30 are increasingly choosing long-acting methods. Sanna Valtonen, a case officer at CES, pointed out this clear shift towards longer-term contraceptive options as a significant trend among older women.
The report also uncovers stark disparities in contraceptive use based on socioeconomic factors. Women with lower incomes, foreign-born women, and those in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas report lower usage rates. Valtonen stressed the importance of addressing these inequalities to ensure equitable access to reproductive healthcare for all women. Previous CES findings highlighted a concerning link between abortion rates and contraceptive access, particularly among women aged 25-34, depicting a critical need for effective contraceptive methods among those reluctant to face unintended pregnancies.
As the prevalence of long-acting contraceptives continues to rise, the challenge remains to bridge the gap in access across various demographic groups, underscoring the need for policy initiatives that enhance reproductive health resources in underserved populations.