Integrating Reproductive Care and Primary Care

Upstream is a national, fast-growing nonprofit working to expand economic opportunity and mobility by reducing unplanned pregnancy in the U.S. We partner with states to provide training and technical assistance to health centers to ensure all women have same-day access to the birth control method of their choice.

Our unique approach empowers women to decide when and if they want to become pregnant, improving economic and health outcomes for parents, children, and society.

All women should be empowered to decide when and if they want to become pregnant. Women are rarely offered the full-range of contraceptive methods – here’s how we’re working to expand access:

Integrating Reproductive Care and Primary Care

All women of reproductive age should be screened about their pregnancy intentions as part of their routine care. Asking women if they intend to become pregnant in the next year when they come in for each healthcare visit ensures that those who do not are counseled on contraception, and those who do receive information on prenatal care.

Reducing Barriers to Access

Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs), including IUDs and the implant, are 20 times more effective than oral contraception and just as safe – but less than 20% of community health centers offer the full range of contraception to their patients. We train and equip healthcare providers to offer same-day access to the full range of contraceptive methods. Our work also includes an emphasis on billing, coding, counseling, workflow, stocking, and other barriers to same-day access.

Partnering with the Entire Health Care System

We work statewide with public health centers, private practices and hospital systems to reduce barriers to access. Working within existing state healthcare infrastructure ensures that we can reach more women, and create sustainable solutions.