What we are learning
As of April 2024, we have completed Phase 1 of the Ask Us Project. Our aim was to investigate youth experiences of accessing contraception in Canada through a national interview study.
We have completed 79 youth-led interviews with youth aged 15-25 across Canada, as well as 27 interviews with youth-serving health care providers.
Of the 79 youth, 15% identified as lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, or gender diverse, 59% were first or second generation immigrants, and 13% were teenagers aged 15 to 18 years old.
Youth have led coding and analysis with support from our research team. We have identified several key themes that highlight contraception access barriers and opportunities for youth.
The demographics of youth we've reached and the themes we've gathered reflect the diverse experiences of youth across the country. We're committed to analyzing the data further and finding practical ways to improve access to contraception for young people.
Click the Research Snapshot to see what we have learned.
Check back to see the publications that arise from our research efforts.
Munro S, Di Meglio G, Williams A, et al. Can youth-engaged research facilitate equitable access to contraception in Canada? The qualitative study protocol for the Ask Us project. BMJ Open 2023;13:e070904.
Read about our study protocol here: https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/13/3/e070904
Khan Z, Williams A, Seiyad H, Jacob K, Arhinson A, Munro S. Youth Voices in Contraceptive Research: Results of a Co-Design Process and Self-Evaluation with Youth. Society of Family Planning Annual Meeting, Seattle, WA. October 28-30, 2023.
View our Top Rated Poster here.
Resources to support mental health
For participants and partners in research, we have developed a list of available supports. If you experience negative thoughts or have questions about your health, please contact one of these free confidential resources.
