Abstract

PIP: This study examines the alternative implications of the measurements of unintended pregnancy during contraceptive failure in the US. The data from the 1995 National Survey of Family Growth (NSFG) were used to compare levels of unintended pregnancy among contraceptive users based on two definitions: the standard definition based on women's report of contraceptive failure; and the NSFG definition based on pregnancy timing. An attitudinal scale was used to examine women's feeling about their unintended pregnancy. The results of the analysis revealed 68% were unintended pregnancies under the classification of standard definition, while 59% of women with contraceptive failure classified under NSFG definition and reported feeling unhappy or very unhappy about their pregnancy. About 90% of those with contraceptive failure classified as an intended pregnancy reported feeling happy or very happy. Although these results were consistent with one another, it is still unclear why these women feeling happy about their unintended pregnancy are practicing contraception.

Comment in

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Publication types

• Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
• Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

• Adult
• Condoms*
• Contraceptive Agents*
• Data Collection
• Emotions*
• Female
• Humans
• Pregnancy / psychology*
• Pregnancy, Unwanted
• United States

Substances

• Contraceptive Agents

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