Unintended Pregnancy Among the LGBTQ+ Population

Unintended births are related to adverse health outcomes for both parents and children (Mosher, et al., 2012). For the context of this research, unintended will include both mistimed (too early) and unwanted (wanted to avoid pregnancy) pregnancies. Non-heterosexual women, defined as anyone who has same-sex sexual behaviors, attractions, or identities, make up about 5.1% of the population according to Williams Institute (2019). The impact of unintended pregnancy among non-heterosexual individuals is not well understood, creating large disparities in the community. This has manifested in emotional, physical, and social wellness gaps compared to their heterosexual counterparts (Buchmueller & Carpenter, 2010; Everett et al., 2017; Healthy People 2020, 2018; Patterson et al., 2017; Schantz, 2015; Williams Institute, 2011). Aim 1: Describe the difference in the rates of unintended pregnancies among non-heterosexual women in the United States compared to heterosexual women? Objective 1a: Describe the differences in pregnancies by demographic characteristics (e.g age, income level, marital status, education, and race). Objective 1b: Determine the most influential predictor of unintended pregnancy among non-heterosexual women. The purpose of this research is to better understand how unintended pregnancy leaves an already vulnerable population more susceptible to homelessness, unhealthy relationships, drug use, and other negative health and economic impacts.The disparities that exist between heterosexual and non-heterosexual people is becoming an increasing concern among healthcare professionals and without evidence-based research, action steps cannot be taken in order to solve the problem