Contraception for adolescents

Ensuring that sexually active adolescents are using contraception consistently and correctly is an effective means of reducing unplanned pregnancy. Use of highly effective long-acting reversible methods, such as subdermal implants, is low. We need to challenge the perception that the pill and condoms, the most commonly used contraceptive methods, are always the most suitable methods for young people. Changes in adolescent sexual behaviour, including increased number of sexual partners, is consistent with a rise in sexually transmitted infections. No contraceptive methods, with the exception of male or female sterilisation, are contra-indicated solely on the grounds of age. Young people need to be counselled about both the benefits and risks associated with each method so that they can make an informed choice. Most of the clinical evidence on contraceptive use comes from studies of ‘older’ women, with little research identified that specifically addressed implications for adolescent contraceptive use.