Introduction: Both communication and sexual and reproductive health knowledge play significant roles in family planning decisions. Individuals who face language barriers may struggle to access the education needed to make informed family planning decisions. This review seeks to describe the effects of language barriers on family planning outcomes in the United States.
Methods: An integrative review conducted per Whittemore and Knafl using an intersectional feminist framework. Systematic searches in four databases generated 17 studies for review.
Results: Language barriers were associated with lower-frequency and lower-quality family planning counseling. Patients facing language barriers also likely face other oppressive forces like racism, discrimination, poverty, and intimate partner violence that further complicate their experiences.
Discussion: Language barriers have significant effects on family planning outcomes. By considering language barriers and addressing factors beyond interpreter use and language concordance, nurses can support improved outcomes.
Keywords: contraception; family planning; intersectionality; language barrier; low English proficiency.