The Need
In 2022, almost 50% of pregnancies in Tennessee were unplanned – often a result of not using contraception at all or inconsistent or incorrect use of contraception.
While access to birth control and preventive education programs are the two most effective measures in reducing unplanned pregnancies, our state severely lacks equity in both.
Pew Research
In Tennessee…
46%
of pregnancies are unplanned
54%
of births are covered by Medicaid / TennCare
1300+
babies were born exposed to opioids in 2023
The percentage of unintended pregnancies is higher among:
Non-Hispanic Black females who have a prevalence more than twice that of non-Hispanic white females.
Females with incomes below 200% of the federal poverty level compared with females with higher incomes.
Females without a high school education compared with females with higher educational attainment.
Unmarried and cohabiting females, who have a prevalence more than four times that of married females.
An alarming lack of reproductive health literacy programs result in individuals being completely unaware of contraceptive methods, community resources to access it, as well as basic reproductive health knowledge.
There are countless benefits to providing reproductive health education to individuals who want it. For one, it is valuable for folks who didn’t receive comprehensive health education in their adolescent years and now want to fill in the gaps in their knowledge. Likewise, reproductive health education is crucial to prevent gender-based violence and discrimination against females. It can contribute to combating homophobia and transphobia - creating a safer and more inclusive community for all. Reproductive health education classes are also an ideal context for raising awareness about the sexual and reproductive health and rights of females, including access to contraception.
Access to Reproductive Health Education
Access to Contraception
Annually in Tennessee, more than 719,000 individuals need support accessing contraception due to barriers related to their socioeconomic status, marginalized racial/ethnic identities, geography, and health care insurance status (Guttmacher, 2014). Over 400,000 “in need” Tennessee individuals live in contraceptive deserts, which are defined as “counties that lack reasonable access to the full range of [contraceptive] methods” (Power to Decide).
The result of unplanned pregnancies resulting from no form of contraception are directly linked to 1) poor maternal (e.g., postpartum depression and parental stress) and infant (e.g., low birthweight) health outcomes, 2) increase in adverse childhood experiences, and 3) family instability.
Since 2017A Step Ahead has:
connected
4500+
individuals across 16 East Tennessee counties with contraception and associated healthcare — at no cost to them
prevented
1,200-1,600
unplanned pregnancies
saved
$24-32M
taxpayer dollars, if these unplanned pregnancies were covered by TennCare
The annual impact: 330-440
prevented pregnancies
&
$6.6-$8.8M
saved in tax dollars
Our Clients91% are uninsured or have insurance that limits birth control choice.
36% are 18 to 24 years old.
51% are mothers.
A Step Ahead Foundation of East Tennessee provides women in financial need with an opportunity to choose if, when, and under what circumstances she will have a baby by providing access to long-acting, reversible contraception (LARC), which is proven to be over 99% effective in preventing pregnancies, at no cost to the client.
Our average client is 29 years old, already has a child, and wants to prevent a future pregnancy.
For many women, fighting the cycle of poverty becomes very difficult as unplanned births occur. With access to LARC, women can achieve their educational, economic, and family goals without having to handle an unplanned pregnancy. We aim to increase positive pregnancy outcomes for both mother and child, lower infant mortality, and improve family life.
Together, we can build a stronger, healthier, and more inclusive community for everyone.
At A Step Ahead Foundation of East Tennessee (ASAFET), we are dedicated to ensuring that all East Tennesseans have the resources and support they need to make empowered choices about their reproductive health.
Empowering Choice
Access to effective contraception and family planning services empowers individuals to make choices that are right for them and their families. Whether it's preventing unintended pregnancies or spacing out births, having the ability to plan and control one's reproductive health is a fundamental aspect of personal freedom and well-being.
Promoting Health and Wellness
Preventive contraception is not just about avoiding pregnancy—it's about ensuring that individuals and families can achieve optimal health. By providing access to a range of contraceptive methods and family planning resources, we support healthier lives, reduce healthcare costs, and contribute to the overall well-being of our community.
Breaking Down Barriers
Many individuals in East Tennessee face barriers to accessing reproductive health services due to cost, geographic isolation, or lack of available options. We work to dismantle these barriers by offering free and confidential services, ensuring that no one is left behind due to financial or logistical constraints.
Supporting Families
Family planning is a key component of strong, healthy families. By helping individuals and couples plan their families according to their circumstances and desires, we contribute to more stable and nurturing environments for children. Our services help families grow and thrive by providing the resources they need to make informed decisions.
Fostering Equity
We are committed to creating a more equitable healthcare landscape where everyone has the opportunity to access the care they need. By focusing on underserved and marginalized populations, we aim to reduce disparities and promote fairness in reproductive health access.
Building a Better Future
Our work is not just about addressing immediate needs—it's about creating lasting change. By increasing access to preventive contraception and family planning services, we help pave the way for a brighter future where every individual has the opportunity to achieve their personal and family goals.