This data brief was a group project, with contributions from Alexa Chan, Catherine Flores, Jessica De Rocco, and me. However, all of the data analysis and code were created by me.
This data brief examines the differences in birth control usage by race and ethnicity among women ages 25-44 in NYC. It also explores the associations between income and length of birth control usage (short-term vs long-term) and how they differ by race and ethnicity, with a specific focus on the social determinants of health, including structural racism and economic inequities. The study aims to provide more clarity on the target population, which will inform the efficacy of programs like Planned Parenthood and NYC Health Sexual Health Clinics, which provide low-cost services, including contraception.
The analysis shows that race is not a determining factor in birth control use among women aged 25-44. While some differences were observed, particularly among Asian women, they were not statistically significant. Most women across races used some form of contraceptive, with a preference for condoms, implants/IUD, and the pill. The study also found that income was not a determining factor for the associations between race and birth control length. NYC health programs and insurance coverage laws may have contributed to this outcome. However, the subset sizes for each racial category were a limitation, and younger women may have different reproductive care experiences than older women. The results suggest that both structural and interpersonal factors influence birth control use. While structural factors make it easier to access birth control in certain spaces based on race and age, interpersonal factors regarding the burden of responsibility for reproductive care need further exploration.
By examining birth control usage among women of different races and ethnicities and exploring the factors that may contribute to disparities in usage, this brief provides important insights into the social determinants of health that impact reproductive health outcomes.