Understanding why some women experience undesired pregnancies while others do not

Undesired Pregnancies during the Transition to Adulthood

NIH-funded research Trustees of Indiana University · NIH-10845506

This study looks at why some young women aged 18 to 19 end up with unexpected pregnancies, using interviews to understand the differences between what they want, what they plan, and what actually happens, with the goal of finding ways to help prevent these situations.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTrustees of Indiana University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Bloomington, United States)
Project IDNIH-10845506 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the factors contributing to undesired pregnancies among young women, specifically those aged 18 to 19. It employs a unique theoretical framework called the Traits-Desires-Intentions-Behavior (TDIB) framework to explore the gaps between women's pregnancy desires, intentions, and actual behaviors. The study utilizes a longitudinal approach, analyzing data from the Relationship Dynamics and Social Life (RDSL) study, which includes interviews with young women who have experienced both pregnancy and non-pregnancy. By examining these experiences, the research aims to uncover insights that could inform interventions to reduce undesired pregnancies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are young women aged 18 to 19 who have experienced or are at risk of undesired pregnancies.

Not a fit: Patients who are outside the age range of 18 to 19 or those who have no interest in pregnancy-related issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and strategies to help young women achieve their reproductive goals, thereby reducing the rates of undesired pregnancies.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been extensive research on pregnancy desires and behaviors, this specific approach using the TDIB framework and longitudinal interviews is relatively novel and has not been widely tested.

Where this research is happening

Bloomington, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.