ACOG Committee Statement No. 21: Access to Contraception.

Abstract

Access to desired contraception is essential to the health and well-being of those who can get pregnant; a reproductive justice framework that acknowledges the interconnectedness of social and structural forces on sexual and reproductive health is key to the equitable provision of contraception to all patients. Obstetrician-gynecologists should be aware of social and structural barriers to care and the potential for bias and be prepared to address the most common misperceptions about contraceptive methods in a way that is age appropriate and compatible with the patient's health literacy. Payers (state, federal, and private insurance), hospitals, and health care systems should include all U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved methods on formulary and should ensure access to all contraceptive methods without cost sharing or copays.