Adolescent Experiences with the Vaginal Ring

Epstein, Laura B.; Sokal-Gutierrez, Karen; Ivey, Susan L.; Raine, Tina; Auerswald, Colette

doi:10.1016/j.jadohealth.2007.12.007

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Volume 43, Issue 1 , Pages 64-70, July 2008

Adolescent Experiences with the Vaginal Ring

Laura B. Epstein, M.S.
- University of California Berkeley–University of California at San Francisco Joint Medical Program, Berkeley, California
- Address correspondence to: Laura Epstein, M.S., c/o Colette Auerswald, M.D., Division of Adolescent Medicine, UCSF, Suite 245, 3333 California Street, San Francisco, CA 94118.
Karen Sokal-Gutierrez, M.D., M.P.H.
- University of California Berkeley–University of California at San Francisco Joint Medical Program, Berkeley, California
- School of Public Health, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, California
Susan L. Ivey, M.D., M.H.S.A.
- University of California Berkeley–University of California at San Francisco Joint Medical Program, Berkeley, California
- School of Public Health, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, California
Tina Raine, M.D., M.P.H.
- Bixby Center for Reproductive Health Research and Policy, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, California
Colette Auerswald, M.D., M.S.
- University of California Berkeley–University of California at San Francisco Joint Medical Program, Berkeley, California
- School of Public Health, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, California
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, California

Received 28 June 2007; accepted 12 December 2007. published online 10 March 2008.

Abstract

Purpose

To understand racial/ethnic minority adolescent females' experiences with the vaginal ring.

Methods

We conducted in-depth interviews with a clinic-based sample of 32 young women aged 15–24 years who had used the vaginal ring.

Results

Qualitative analysis using grounded theory revealed that adolescents undergo a multi-stage process when trying the ring and adopting ring use. These stages include hearing about the ring, initial reactions, first experiences with insertion and removal, and first sexual experiences. Adolescents subsequently enter an assessment and adjustment stage in which they decide whether to adopt or discontinue ring use. Ultimately they share their experiences with friends.

Conclusions

The model developed provides a context within which providers may advise adolescents as they begin use of the ring. Some specific recommendations are offered.

Keywords: Vaginal ring, adolescence, Adolescent, Contraception, Reproductive health, Qualitative