Mapping evidence on decision-making on contraceptive use among adolescents: a scoping review protocol

BACKGROUND: Contraceptive use among adolescents remains consistently low globally. Numerous studies have been done investigating factors that contribute to low contraceptive prevalence rates in this special population. It is particularly vital to understand decision-making processes that adolescents undergo when deciding whether or not to use contraceptives. Therefore, this scoping review seeks to map available evidence on decision-making processes in contraceptive use among adolescents. METHODS: We will conduct a scoping review to explore, describe and map literature on the adolescent decision-making regarding contraceptive use. The primary search will include peer-reviewed and review articles. Databases, including PubMed, MEDLINE with Full Text via EBSCOhost, PsychINFO via EBSCOhost, CINAHL with Full Text via EBSCOhost, Google Scholar, Science Direct and Scopus, will be searched for articles that meet the eligibility criteria. Keyword searches will be used, and for articles included after title screening, abstract and full articles will be screened by two independent reviewers with a third as a decider on any disputes. Content analysis will be used to present the narrative account of the reviews. DISCUSSION: Understanding how adolescents make decisions about whether or not to use contraception is essential for improving contraceptive prevalence rates in this special population. It is envisioned that the results from this review will highlight key evidence on how adolescent make decisions regarding contraceptive use as well as gaps and opportunities for future research. It will also be important in enhancing and re-focusing adolescent sexual and reproductive health policies and programmes.