An exploratory study of patients’ experiences with and reasons for using one virtual-only telecontraceptive platform in the United States in 2020–2021

A growing number of virtual-only platforms and mobile applications provide contraception services. However, limited research has explored user experiences with these services. In our exploratory study, we conducted an online survey among users obtaining contraception from one specific virtual-only platform for the first time to understand reasons for using telecontraception and what they did or did not like about their experience. We found that most study participants used the platform because of convenience, to save time, and due to lower cost compared to going to a clinic in-person. Many participants had used some form of hormonal birth control before. Most participants were satisfied with their care. However, this virtual platform (like a number of other platforms and mobile applications providing contraception services) did not offer contraception services to people under age 18 and did not accept insurance. Those aged 18–25 were more likely to say they used the service for privacy and to save time and money compared to older participants, which is noteworthy since this group can encounter unique health insurance and financial challenges when trying to get birth control. Even though most people were happy with their care, more can be done to make the service available to all, especially young people, first-time birth control users, and those who would like to use insurance to pay for the platform’s services.