Between contraception and hormones : a qualitative analysis of the lived experiences of former contraceptive pill users

Abstract

Contraceptive decision-making is an ongoing process that affects reproductive life and involves method uptake, use, and discontinuation. Contraceptive pills have been widely studied for their side effects, lived experiences, and links to biomedicalisation. However, there is a lack of research that integrates the entire subjective contraceptive pill experience from implementation to the period after discontinuation. This study explores the lived experience of pill use in Germany through 19 oral contraceptive pill biographies using thematic analysis, a deductive-inductive, iterative coding approach, and team-based discussions. This work is grounded in the theoretical framework of the contraceptive journey and feminist inquiry. Our analysis illustrated the complexity of pill use, with frequent switching, stopping, and restarting influenced by biopsychological issues, normalisation of use, and adverse effects. Attitudes towards hormones and pregnancy risk evolve over time and age. Former users consider their contraceptive journey to be successful in preventing pregnancy, but desire more male contraceptive options and improved information and counselling services. These findings emphasise the importance of prioritising former users’ informal knowledge and lived experiences in future research, policy, and practice. This approach can support healthcare providers in incorporating individual and diverse health needs, aligning with the principles of reproductive justice.