Contraceptive Counseling: Better Access, Better Outcomes
Trust Her is dedicated to removing barriers to birth control so that all women and girls in Dallas County can plan their families and their futures. Our clinic-based work focuses on improving logistical access—making sure all birth control methods are available same-day and covering the cost for uninsured patients.
But access is about more than availability and affordability. We’ve made contraceptive counseling a core part of our mission because data shows many people lack accurate, trusted information about their options.
For example, over half of young people worry that birth control has dangerous side effects, and more than a third fear it may affect their future fertility. One in three say they don’t have enough information to choose the method that’s right for them (Power to Decide).
Trusted, patient-centered counseling helps close those gaps and ensures people can make informed choices that align with their values and goals.
Dispelling the Myths
When people don’t have trusted sources of information, myths take root. This is especially true for teens. Social media amplifies confusion, and misinformation can mean the difference between a young person feeling empowered about their future or being afraid to make any decision at all.
One of the most common misconceptions we hear is the fear that birth control could harm a person’s future fertility. The truth is most contraceptive methods are designed to be temporary. Once someone stops using birth control, their body resumes its natural reproductive function. The only exception is the Depo shot, which may delay a return to fertility by up to 10 months for some users.
Removing Barriers to Contraceptive Counseling
A major barrier to contraceptive counseling is simply finding a trusted source of information. Many people don’t know where to go for reliable contraceptive counseling—or may not be comfortable asking a provider.
That’s why Trust Her trains community-based professionals like case managers, counselors, and social workers to use our counseling tools. These trusted individuals can introduce birth control options in non-clinical settings, helping people explore their preferences and feel prepared to talk with a provider when they’re ready.
Young people face some of the steepest barriers to accessing birth control. Many teens lack reliable transportation and may struggle to navigate clinics that aren’t youth-friendly. Consent laws can also add hurdles.
That’s why we’ve made youth a priority in our outreach and education efforts. And it’s also why our partnership with Healthy Futures of Texas is so vital. Their expertise in adolescent health and education helps us connect with teens where they are with honest, accurate, and judgment-free information. Together, we’re building a network of support that prepares young people to make informed choices long before they walk into a clinic.
What Effective Counseling Looks Like
For us, effective contraceptive counseling isn’t a lecture. It’s a conversation. We believe the most impactful counseling is:
- Person-Centered: Grounded in the patient’s needs, goals, and preferences.
- Inclusive & Non-Judgmental: Free of bias, stigma, or assumptions.
- Evidence-Based: Informed by accurate, up-to-date medical information.
- Empowering: Especially for teens, supporting confidence and autonomy.
- Culturally Sensitive: Respectful of diverse values, experiences, and beliefs.
Counseling for Better Health Outcomes
When done well, contraceptive counseling is a key lever for advancing health outcomes. It ensures everyone—regardless of income, background, or insurance status—can access the full range of birth control options and make choices aligned with their goals.
People have different needs, and communities have different beliefs and traditions around reproductive health. At Trust Her, we’ve developed counseling tools designed to center each person’s values—without assumptions or bias.
For example, preferences around menstruation can vary widely. Some people value having a regular period, while others prefer methods that allow them to skip it. By giving patients the space to share what matters to them, our tools support counseling that is culturally responsive, respectful, and tailored to each individual.
This kind of informed decision-making leads to better health outcomes: fewer unintended pregnancies, improved maternal and child health, and greater economic mobility. By helping people decide if and when to grow their families, contraceptive counseling supports autonomy and opportunity.
The Change We’re Working Toward
Expanding access to contraceptive care requires action across all levels. At the provider level, Trust Her works with clinics to ensure all methods are available on-site, and that primary care providers are trained to offer options like IUDs and implants. This helps patients get the method they want when they need it.
At the community level, we work to dispel myths and provide accurate education about birth control options, especially among youth. Our collaboration with Healthy Futures of Texas strengthens this work by linking education with access. We need more community champions to help provide accurate information and to fight for policies that expand access to care.
Ultimately, women and girls should be in the driver’s seat of their lives. That means having the knowledge, support, and access to decide if and when they want to start a family. It takes coordinated efforts across clinics, communities, and policymakers to make that a reality.
