Differences in unintended pregnancies by state contexts

Modified Project Summary/Abstract Section Preliminary evidence suggests that rates of unintended pregnancies may differ by sexual orientation, and there may be additional differences among subgroups of women within sexual orientation groups. For example, women who live in different states may experience differences due to varied access to reproductive health care from varying state policies. This project will combine data from two large national longitudinal cohorts to see how these differences in state policy contexts and demographic characteristics impact differences in unintended pregnancies and associated adverse pregnancy outcomes. The proposed research is an essential next step towards (1) elucidating the mechanisms that affect unintended pregnancies and their outcomes (2) identifying particular policies that promote health and wellbeing, and (3) improving pregnancy outcomes for all.