Optimizing Postpartum Contraception in Women With Preterm Births

The purpose of this study is to examine the effectiveness of focused family planning counseling on the uptake and continuation of highly effective contraceptive methods (defined as the intrauterine device, implant, and both male and female sterilization methods including vasectomy, tubal ligation and Essure) during the postpartum period in women who have recently experienced a preterm delivery. The investigators hypothesize that women with a recent preterm birth (PTB) will be more likely to initiate and continue using a highly effective method of contraception when provided with focused family planning counseling.

Intervention name: Focused contraception counseling This intervention will be provided to those randomized to the intervention group only. This counseling will follow a pre-written, structured script describing all contraceptive methods in rank order starting with most effective to least effective in preventing unplanned pregnancy.

Participants will receive the standard postpartum contraception counseling that is received by all patients who deliver at our institution.

This intervention will be provided to those randomized to the intervention group only. This counseling will follow a pre-written, structured script describing all contraceptive methods in rank order starting with most effective to least effective in preventing unplanned pregnancy.

Inclusion Criteria: Women who deliver a premature infant that is between the gestational ages of 24 weeks 0 days and 36 weeks 6 days at our institution. Exclusion Criteria: Women who have delivered via cesarean section and have also had a sterilization procedure at the time of the cesarean section.