Access to confidential reproductive health care — including contraception — is a critical component of adolescent health. Many teens who are sexually active seek contraception to prevent unintended pregnancy, yet policies requiring parental consent can create significant barriers — especially for those unable or unwilling to involve a parent in their health decisions.
On April 28, 2025, the Baker Institute for Public Policy will host:
Teen Access to Contraception: Health Impacts and Policy Considerations,
a timely panel discussion exploring the current policy landscape and its effects on teen health and provider care across Texas.
The conversation will feature leading voices in health policy and reproductive justice, including:
- Kari White, Ph.D, M.P.H. – Nonresident Fellow, Maternal and Reproductive Health, Center for Health Policy, Baker Institute; Executive and Scientific Director of Resound Research for Reproductive Health
- Meghna Raphael, M.D. – Assistant Professor, Pediatrics-Adolescents & Sports Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine
- Aketch Osamba, M.P.H. – Direct Services Program Manager, Jane’s Due Process
- Elena M. Marks, J.D., M.P.H. – Senior Fellow in Health Policy, Baker Institute (Moderator)
These experts will examine how Texas policies — particularly recent changes that restrict access to Title X services — impact teens, healthcare providers, and long-term health outcomes.
This event is free and open to the public, offering an opportunity to hear from experts in research, clinical practice, and community-based programming.
Event Information:
- Monday, April 28, 2025
- 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
- At Rice University’s Baker Hall
- Register here: https://www.bakerinstitute.org/event/teen-access-contraception-health-impacts-and-policy-considerations
