Contraception is widely used and accepted in the United States. Despite its near universal use and support, however, contraception has become a topic of policy and political debate. Despite the sometimes heated rhetoric, a new poll commissioned by The National Campaign makes clear that among American adults there is broad agreement for supporting access to birth control and reducing the rate of unplanned pregnancy.
Some Results
- Seven in 10 Americans (70%) believe that health insurance companies should be required to cover the full cost of birth control, just as they do for other preventive services.
- The most effective methods of birth control can be expensive, especially for those who are uninsured or underinsured. For women who cannot afford it, 81% of the public overall and majorities of Democrats (91%), Independents (80%), and Republicans (66%) believe the government should continue to help these individuals get access to birth control.
- Most Americans (79%) agree that during tough economic times, we should be doing all we can to help reduce unplanned pregnancy by increasing women’s access to birth control.
- Eight in 10 Americans (79%) agree that policymakers who oppose abortion should be strong supporters of birth control.
- 95% of the general public, including large majorities of Democrats (97%), Independents (96%), and Republicans (92%), agree that for those trying not to get pregnant, using birth control is taking personal responsibility.
Resources
Download Public Opinion on Contraception and Unplanned Pregnancy
Download the full survey questions and toplines