Australian women’s experiences of contraception and pregnancy planning in the context of chronic disease

In women's reproductive health, access to, and use of, contraception is important, as the choices women make about contraception impact their bodily autonomy and play a significant role in their overall health. Despite this, women with chronic disease are more likely to use less effective contraceptive methods that place them at an increased risk of an unintended pregnancy. To better understand Australian women's experiences of contraception use and pregnancy planning in the context of chronic disease, we conducted a qualitative study with 23 women from the 1989-95 cohort of the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health. Data were analysed using discourse analysis with a focus on gender performance and self-sacrifice. Our findings indicated two primary discourses which include the complexity of managing contraception as a part of preconception care in the context of chronic disease and the prioritisation of competing health demands. Insights from this research indicate that women require contraception that is tailored to their individual needs. This study demonstrates the need for contraceptive providers to be informed of the physical and psychological side effects and behavioural impacts of contraception and the potential implications for chronic disease status and management.