Abstract

This study examined sociocultural correlates of contraceptive method use among partnered U.S. women using 2020–2021 National Couples’ Health and Time Study data (N = 775; sterilized women excluded). Multinomial logistic regression assessed associations between method used at last sex—long-acting reversible contraception (LARC; e.g., IUD, implant), short-acting reversible contraception (SARC; e.g., pill, patch, ring, shot), other methods, or none—and religious affiliation, nativity (U.S.-born vs. foreign-born), race/ethnicity, education, insurance status, and age. Education and age were significantly associated with method choice. Graduate-level education was associated with higher odds of LARC use versus none (aOR = 4.96, 95% CI: 1.89–13.03). Women aged 18–34 had lower odds of LARC (aOR = 0.29, 95% CI: 0.13–0.65) and SARC (aOR = 0.27, 95% CI: 0.12–0.60) compared to women aged 35–50. Religious affiliation was not significant overall, though atheist identification was associated with higher SARC use (aOR = 5.05, 95% CI: 1.28–19.90). Nativity, race/ethnicity, and insurance status were not significantly associated with method choice. Findings underscore the role of education and life stage in contraceptive decision-making.

Keywords: Contraception, Cultural Characteristics, Immigrants, Religion, Pregnancy, Sexual & Reproductive Health

How to Cite:

Alkhatib, S. A., Balasundaram, R., Johnson, K., Griner, S. B., Neelamegam, M. & Thompson, E. L., (2026) “Sociocultural Correlates of Contraceptive Method Use Among Partnered U.S. Women: Findings from NCHAT”, Health Behavior Research 9(1).