Contraceptive discontinuation among Honduran women who use reversible methods.

A panel study examining the effects of women's individual characteristics, side effects experienced, and service quality on their contraceptive discontinuation was undertaken in four urban areas of Honduras. Data were collected from October 2006 to December 2007. The baseline sample consisted of 800 women aged 15-44 who were new or continuing users of an injectable contraceptive, the IUD, or an oral contraceptive.

Experience with side effects among users of injectables, the IUD, and oral contraceptive pills in four urban areas of Honduras.

Contraceptive side effects are often the most commonly reported reason for method discontinuation, particularly of modern methods. We use data from eight focus groups and 800 exit interviews to examine women's experiences with contraceptive side effects in four urban areas of Honduras. Ease of treatment and differences in motivation to avoid pregnancy are suggested explanations for why side effects cause some women to continue and others to discontinue.