Pennsylvania’s Catalyst for Sexual & Reproductive Health Equity  

PA Catalyst is a research-to-impact initiative bridging the gap between evidence and action. We translate rigorous research on contraception and abortion into real-world solutions that expand access to care across the Commonwealth.  

Approaching Access from Every Angle

PA Catalyst focuses on the structural and cultural forces that shape access to abortion and contraception in Pennsylvania.  We examine how state policy, social norms, and clinical practices influence the availability of healthcare services, what people know about them, and the choices they are able to make. By generating evidence to address systemic barriers that restrict reproductive autonomy, we advance equitable and enduring improvements in sexual and reproductive healthcare across Pennsylvania.


Guide Policy + Practice

By conducting research that informs policy and translates evidence into real-world practice.


Address Stigma

By developing public messaging grounded in Pennsylvanians’ core values that challenges stigmatizing norms and narratives.


Pave the Way

By translating our insights and lessons learned into actionable guidance for future initiatives across Pennsylvania and beyond. 

Collaborating for Lasting Impact  

PA Catalyst is an initiative of CONVERGE, a multidisciplinary research center at the University of Pittsburgh committed to advancing sexual and reproductive health equity. Leveraging CONVERGE's expertise and longstanding partnerships, the PA Catalyst team works alongside policymakers, advocates, and service providers to promote equitable and sustainable access to contraception and abortion statewide. 

Does your work align with PA Catalyst?

Are you interested in learning more about what we do?