Analyzing the Relationship Between Women\u27s Decisions to Use Contraception and Their Partners\u27 Perceptions of Preventative Behavior

A majority of adolescents and young adults report inconsistent use of safe sexual behaviors and contraception methods due to a variety of influencing factors. These practices can lead to limited future reproductive choices and can spread communicable disease in the population. The purpose of this study was to determine if a woman\u27s decision to use a specific type of contraceptive method is influenced by her partner\u27s attitude toward preventive sexual health practices. A secondary purpose was to analyze women\u27s attitudes towards safe sex and contraceptive practices as independent entities of disease and pregnancy in the reproductive cycle. A literature review was conducted from the following databases: CINAHL, ERIC, Medline, and PsycInfo. Initial search criteria terms included contraception, male partner, influence, decision-making, intimacy, and relationship. Results were limited to scholarly journals/peer reviewed articles published no earlier than 1996. Overall, findings were inconclusive if a relationship exists between women\u27s choice of contraceptive method and their partner\u27s attitude towards safe sex and preventative health practices. In conclusion, further research analyzing intimate partner relationships and their influence on sexual health practices can provide insight into creating a plan of preventative care tailored to each individual