Understanding long-acting reversible contraception in Ireland: Awareness, use, and barriers for young people under 20
Introduction
Research Area:
contraception/ health education/ Reproductive and Sexual Health)/ women's health
What is the research about?
This research project will explore young people’s awareness of contraception (especially Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives e.g. the bar, the coil, and the injection), what influences their decisions when choosing a method of contraception, and barriers to access. We will develop a survey for distribution in relevant Rotunda Hospital clinics (gynaecology and maternity). We will use the findings from the survey to create an educational campaign that is youth-friendly, culturally sensitive, and grounded in the lived experiences of the young people we’re engaging with. Our overall aim is to empower young people with the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions about which contraceptive method is best for them.
Who We’re Looking For:
We’re looking for people preferably under the age of 20, who have a uterus and live in Ireland and are interested in sharing their views on contraception. You don’t need any prior experience with research, just a willingness to give your input to survey questions, language, and campaign ideas.
What will PPI Contributors do?
The PPI contributors will join our steering committee and be involved in:
– Designing and reviewing the survey (language, tone, framing of sensitive questions) – January 2026
– Attending steering committee meetings from project go-live through to closure
– Interpreting the survey findings through a youth-centered lens – September/October
– Co-developing campaign materials – October/November
As this project involves discussion of contraception and sexual health, some topics may feel sensitive. We will use age-appropriate, respectful language and ensure discussions are facilitated in a supportive, non-judgemental way.
Opportunity for:
Involvement Opportunity Details
Time
Time commitment:
We anticipate approximately 4 online meetings with the PPI contributor across the project. Each meeting will last approximately 60 minutes.
Contact between meetings:
When you respond to this advert, the communication manager, Elisa Belmonte, will contact you by email for a brief conversation to share a little more on the project and the first activity you will be involved in. If you are interested in contributing, you can become a member of the project’s PPI research panel. Between meetings, you’ll have the option to review materials offline, at your own pace, and send your feedback back to Elisa via email or to discuss via Teams. There will be the following materials to review: Survey & Patient Information Leaflet (January) Educational material (October/November) There’s no expectation to take part in every activity—your involvement can be tailored to what works best for you.
Length of involvement:
1 Year
Start date for involvement:
26/01/2026
Logistics
Where?
If online, explain how:
Meetings will be held on Microsoft Teams. The review process can take place offline.
If in person, explain where:
Not applicable
Other ways of communicating:
Email / Microsoft Teams
Funding available for:
If no funding available, explain why:
Not applicable
Other Information
Stage of the research study/ programme:
Research started
Is this opportunity for PPI in a PhD:
No
Closing date to contact researchers:
26/01/2026
Research Team
Contact person:
Elisa Belmonte
University/organisation:
Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland
Contact email:
elisabelmonte@rcsi.ie
Researcher background:
Research Communications / Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Research funder:
Research Ireland
Photo:
Interested in this PPI Opportunity?
Please complete this form and click SUBMIT