Contraceptive access challenges for college students in contraception deserts

In an interview with Contemporary OB/GYN, Jason Bell, MD, a board-certified ob-gyn and Director of Medical Affairs at Organon, discussed the challenges female college students face when living in contraceptive deserts, defined as areas with limited access to reproductive health services.

Bell began by highlighting the widespread issue of contraceptive deserts in the United States, where over 19 million women of reproductive age lack reasonable access to health care centers offering contraceptive services. This lack of access can be particularly impactful for college students, who may relocate from states with better reproductive health services to attend universities in restrictive states, often in the South where many historically Black colleges and universities are located. As a father of daughters who have gone to college, Bell emphasized the importance of preparing young women for the potential challenges they may face in accessing contraception once they leave home.

The implications of unplanned pregnancies among college-aged women were also discussed. Bell stressed that unplanned pregnancies are not only disruptive to a woman's life but also to her partner, often leading to educational setbacks and emotional strain. He noted that unplanned pregnancies are a leading cause of attrition from college, particularly among women aged 20 to 24 years. Additionally, Bell advocated for the importance of education about reproductive health and contraception, emphasizing that accurate, science-based information is crucial. Bell also noted the growing role of social media in shaping young women’s understanding of sexual health, though it can be a double-edged sword because of the spread of both helpful and misleading information.

Regarding contraceptive access, Bell explained that services vary significantly across universities depending on factors such as state funding and local regulations. While some university health centers offer a full range of contraceptive options, others may be more limited because of financial or regulatory constraints. He emphasized that regardless of what services are available on campus, it is critical for students to know where and how they can access contraception outside of the university setting. Bell mentioned that Organon has partnered with Power to Decide and supported their "Beyond the Sheets" campaign, which trains peer educators at historically Black colleges and universities to provide students with accurate information about contraception and sexual health.

In conclusion, Bell stressed the importance of open, fact-based conversations about contraception before students leave for college. As a father and ob-gyn, he believes that students should be informed about their contraceptive options, whether they are short-acting methods such as birth control pills or long-acting methods such as intrauterine devices. According to Bell, the key is to listen to what the student needs and provide the method that aligns with her goals and lifestyle.