O G Open

Study highlights systemic hurdles to wider use of self-injected contraceptives

January 16, 2026

A mixed-methods study of 422 surveyed and 34 interviewed family planning experts found that while 74.5% were aware of SC depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) for user administration, only 34.8% prescribed it. Awareness was more likely among clinicians with reproductive health training, OB-GYN specialization, or those working in Title X-funded or Planned Parenthood clinics. Prescribing was associated with access to clinical workflows and insurance coverage, while abortion restrictions predicted lower prescribing. Authors conclude that barriers between awareness and provision are largely institutional and systemic, spanning clinician demographics, perceived patient concerns, and policy constraints.

Clinical takeaway: Expanding access to self-administered DMPA may require workflow support and advocacy for coverage and policy change.

Source:

Clark C, et al. (2026, January 8). O G Open. Barriers and Facilitators to Expanding User-Administered Injectable Contraceptives in the United States. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41510327/