January 30, 2025
Though research has documented disproportionate rates of sexual and reproductive health outcomes like STIs and unintended pregnancy among young people with child welfare involvement, we know little about whether this group of young people are receiving the contraceptive information or services they need to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.
Our research followed 245 adolescents with child welfare involvement as they transitioned from middle school to high school. We explored whether these young people received contraceptive education, knew how to access services, and if they received any contraceptive services.
What We Found
By 10th or 11th grade, most young people reported knowing how to access contraception, but there were significant gaps in education and services:
- 18% of young women and 54% of young men had never received contraceptive education or information.
- Young men were significantly less likely than young women to receive information, know how to access services, or actually receive contraceptive services.
- Schools were often the primary—and sometimes the only—source of information for young men, while young women more commonly received information from both schools and medical providers.
Why This Matters
Contraceptive information was often received too late, was incomplete, or in some cases, never provided—especially for young men. This delay leaves many young people vulnerable to unintended pregnancies or sexually transmitted infections during a critical developmental period.
Contraceptive information was often received too late, was incomplete, or in some cases, never provided—especially for young men.
The data also highlights the gender disparity in access to resources. While young women are typically considered the responsible party for contraceptives, external condoms are the most common contraceptive method used among teens.
What You Can Do
As someone who works with vulnerable young people, you play a critical role in bridging these gaps. Here are some key takeaways:
- Start Early: Begin conversations about reproductive health and contraception before high school. Waiting until later can mean missed opportunities.
- Include Everyone: Ensure that all young people are included in contraceptive education. All young people need this information.
- Leverage Multiple Sources: Schools are a common source of information, but they shouldn’t be the only one. Medical providers, parents and family members, and community organizations can all help provide consistent and accurate information.
Moving Forward
Young people involved with the child welfare system are resilient, but they need the right tools and support to thrive. By providing timely, comprehensive, and equitable contraceptive education, we can empower them to make informed decisions about their health and futures.
You can access the full research article or contact Katie Massey Combs.
Interested in talking more about these findings and implications? Join us for a virtual coffee chat!
