Contraceptive choices and preferences in a cohort of women with cystic fibrosis

Abstract

Objectives: As life expectancy for women with cystic fibrosis (CF) improves, reproductive decision-making is becoming increasingly relevant. We sought to characterize fertility intentions, contraceptive use, and preferences among adult females with CF.

Study design: We conducted a cross-sectional survey of contraceptive use and preferences in reproductive-aged women with CF. Subjects were recruited via an electronic mailing list from the Penn Adult Cystic Fibrosis Program.

Results: Fifty-three women with CF responded and met eligibility criteria. Most (83%) were sexually active, however only 49% used contraception. Condoms and the oral contraceptive pill were the most commonly used methods. Compared to the national contraceptive use among Caucasian women (65%), use in our cohort was significantly lower (p = 0.01). Participants prioritized effectiveness and ease of use in their contraceptive method; they wanted to avoid side effects and interference with sexual enjoyment. Although these priorities are similar to Caucasian women in the literature, additional contraceptive priorities differed significantly between the groups.

Conclusions: This CF cohort is sexually active but contraceptive utilization was low, and women with CF identify specific contraceptive preferences. There is a significant unmet need for contraception among women with CF.

Keywords: Birth control; Contraception; Cystic fibrosis; Pregnancy; Reproduction.