Assessing Satisfaction of Reproductive Health Care for Adults Who Identify as Women With Intellectual and Developmental Disability in South Texas [ID 1321]

INTRODUCTION: Adults who identify as women with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) face disproportionately poorer reproductive health and pregnancy outcomes. Despite the need for tailored reproductive health care, limited research exists on patient satisfaction among this population. METHODS: We developed a reproductive health curriculum specifically for women with IDD and delivered it as four 1-hour weekly sessions through community partners Reaching Maximum Independence, The Backyard, and The Arc of San Antonio. Before the sessions, participants completed a survey assessing their perspectives on reproductive health and interactions with health care providers. Patient informed consent was obtained. RESULTS: We evaluated satisfaction with reproductive health care and explored topics participants felt were underaddressed by providers. Among the 20 participants, 8 used hormonal birth control, of which 3 participants (37.5%) were unaware of their current birth control, and 3 other participants (37.5%) expressed dissatisfaction due to issues such as heavier periods, irregular cycles, worsened cramps, and weight gain. Sixteen participants said they would seek medical care for reproductive health concerns, but 6 of these (37.5%) felt their reproductive goals were not adequately addressed. When asked about topics they wanted to discuss more, 35% mentioned nutrition, 30% safety, 30% exercise, 25% menstrual health, 20% birth control options, and 5% fertility. CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS: Individuals with IDD reported unmet reproductive health needs. By evaluating patient satisfaction and identifying reproductive health concerns, future efforts can focus on expanding education to improve the quality of reproductive health services for this underserved population. These initiatives are essential for promoting health equity.