U.S. women who used contraception within the past 12 months in 2017-2024
Contraceptive use among women in the United States has seen a substantial increase in recent years, with 82 percent of sexually active women reporting use of at least one contraceptive method in 2024, up from 48 percent in 2017. This trend reflects a growing emphasis on reproductive health and family planning, as more women take control of their fertility. The rise in contraceptive use coincides with efforts to improve access to preventive care services, though challenges in healthcare utilization persist.
Contraceptive methods and challenges
Among the various contraceptive options available, male condoms and oral contraceptives remain the most popular choices for American women. In 2024, 25 percent of reproductive-aged women reported using male condoms in the past year, while 22 percent used oral contraceptives. However, the use of contraception is not without challenges. Many women experience side effects due to contraceptive use, with mood changes and weight gain being the most commonly reported issues in 2022. Nearly eight out of ten women reported experiencing 2 or more side effects that were either unexpected or more severe than anticipated, underscoring the importance of comprehensive education and support for contraceptive users.
Preventive care and contraception
While contraceptive use has increased, there are still gaps in overall preventive care for women. As of 2022, 22 percent of women in the U.S. reported forgoing preventive health services, such as yearly check-ups or routine tests, in the past year. This highlights the need for continued efforts to improve access to and utilization of comprehensive women's health services, including both contraception and other preventive measures. The relationship between contraceptive use and overall health awareness is complex, with room for improvement in both areas.
