This study addresses two priority areas outlined by the Society for Family Planning’s request for proposals on contraceptive misinformation and disinformation: improving surveillance and understanding consequences. The project aims to generate actionable evidence that informs the development of a practical toolkit for US-based family planning providers combating contraceptive misinformation in clinical settings. Focusing on communities of color served by Title X Family Planning clinics in New York City, the study explores the sources, nature, and reproductive health consequences of misinformation and disinformation.
The study is guided by three research questions: (1) What are the sources and content of contraceptive misinformation among Title X patients in communities of color? (2) How does exposure to misinformation affect sexual and reproductive health outcomes? (3) How can providers effectively respond to misinformation in practice?
Aim 1 involves qualitative focus group discussions (N=4 groups, 6 participants each), stratified by age and language (English and Spanish), followed by a quantitative survey (N=240) to assess prevalence, sources, and patterns of misinformation.
Aim 2 uses survey data to examine associations between misinformation exposure and outcomes such as unintended pregnancy, unmet contraceptive need, and relationship dynamics, including reproductive coercion and intimate partner violence, with a focus on racial and ethnic disparities.
Aim 3 engages a Collaborative Research Action Network (CRAN) of providers and patients to translate findings into a toolkit for clinical application.
This project seeks to equip family planning providers with tools to recognize, assess, and respond to misinformation, ultimately promoting reproductive autonomy and health equity.