Evaluating the Impact of CHOICE-AYA on Contraceptive Use, Continuation and Satisfaction

This study will adapt an evidence-based contraceptive counseling intervention (CHOICE) using input from the formative groups of AYA experiencing homelessness and study the impact of the adapted counseling (CHOICE-AYA) on contraceptive use, continuation, and satisfaction in a specialized community care setting. After informed consent is obtained, participants will receive the CHOICE-AYA counseling intervention by trained clinic staff. Provision of contraception based on participant choice will occur through the clinic provider same day.

Participants will be sent links to complete the follow-up surveys at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. In addition, Clinic staff (e.g., prescribers and nurses) will be sent electronic surveys following randomly selected study visits.

Findings will inform best practices for this vulnerable population and provide foundational evidence for future studies focused on expanding care to other sites that serve this group.

Inclusion criteria

• Adolescents and young adults experiencing homelessness and housing instability (defined as those seeking care at our community-based clinic on the campus of a youth shelter) aged 14-21 who have female reproductive organs (In Missouri, youth aged ≤13 are not legally able to consent to sex)
• English speaking
• Prior sexual activity or anticipated future sexual activity that creates the risk of pregnancy
• Either not currently on hormonal contraception OR interested in switching methods

Exclusion criteria

• AYA currently seeking pregnancy in the next 3 months
• AYA with a severe developmental or cognitive delay that interferes with the ability to engage in consensual reproductive sex (determined by the investigator)