POSTER ABSTRACTS
Brownsyne Tucker Edmonds, TA Wilkinson, Caitlin Bernard, Robert K. Evans, Jeffrey F. Peipert · Contraception · 2021
Objectives: To understand Black women's perspectives on family planning experiences to inform messaging strategies for a county-wide contraceptive access program Methods: Partnering with a human-centered design research team and our community advisory board, we recruited 15 self-identified Black women who resided in Marion County to participate in a survey to enlist participant perspectives and experiences. We asked women to write a ‘Break-Up Letter’ and/or ’Love Letter’ to a healthcare provider regarding a negative contraception/family planning experience. Results: Study participants’ experiences with and feelings about pregnancy planning and contraception were largely positive–though qualitative descriptions of birth control ranged from “wonderful” to “not natural.” Break-Up letters talked about feeling “invalidated” and wanting to be heard: “I felt like when I told you I wanted more kids, you made this face that showed you didn't think that was a good idea and tried to talk me out of it.” “I will be replacing you with some one that is more informed on the things I want and more available.” “I just wish you would truly listen to me and what I am sharing about my body.” Conversely, Love letters stated: “The way you take your time and make sure all my questions are answered . . . . means a lot to me.” “Thank you for listening to me and giving me your thoughts without pushing your beliefs on me.” Conclusions: User-centered design offers innovative engagement strategies to design public health messaging for contraceptive care that is responsive to the needs of marginalized and minoritized communities.