Crisis pregnancy centers (CPCs) are a common choice for women with a history of pregnancy or testing for pregnancy in four U.S. states, according to a recent study published in PLOS One. These centers, which typically offer pregnancy and parenting resources, are often associated with organizations that promote anti-abortion missions, oppose contraception, and advocate for abstinence.
While CPCs may appear to be medical facilities or abortion clinics, they are not licensed clinics and often provide inaccurate or misleading information about sexual and reproductive health. The study, conducted by researchers from The Ohio State University, analyzed data from nearly 9,000 women in Arizona, Wisconsin, Iowa, and New Jersey between 2018 and 2020.
The findings revealed that between 12% and 20% of women who had been pregnant or tested for pregnancy had visited a CPC for pregnancy-related care. Attendance rates varied by state, with Arizona having the highest rate at 20.2% and New Jersey the lowest at 11.6%. Wisconsin and Iowa fell in between at approximately 14% each. Surprisingly, there was no significant correlation between CPC attendance and factors such as age, race/ethnicity, or socioeconomic status.
The study underscores the prevalence of women seeking care at CPCs and highlights the importance of understanding their role in pregnancy-related health, especially as the reproductive health care landscape evolves. The authors caution against relying on CPCs for medical care, as these facilities are not held to the same standards as licensed medical clinics.
It is crucial for healthcare providers to be aware that their pregnant patients may have visited a CPC and been exposed to misinformation. Correcting any misconceptions or inaccuracies is essential for ensuring that women receive accurate and evidence-based information about their reproductive health.
For more information, the study titled “Prevalence of crisis pregnancy center attendance among women in four U.S. states” can be accessed in PLOS One. This research sheds light on the prevalence of CPC attendance and the potential impact of misinformation spread by these centers on women’s health decisions.
In conclusion, the study serves as a wake-up call for the healthcare community to address the misinformation spread by CPCs and ensure that women have access to reliable and accurate reproductive health information. It is essential to empower women with knowledge and support to make informed choices about their care.
