Contraception in girls and young women

Young women in Germany become sexually active far earlier then formerly. Recently due to various initiatives of gynecologists in Germany girls and young women have the first consultation with the gynecologist often before active sexuality is initiated. Currently the most common and safest methods of contraception recommended by the parents and the gynecologist are oral contraceptions to avoid unwanted pregnancies and condoms to protect against sexually transmitted infections both applied preferably in combination. Good knowledge about and easy access to emergency contraception is an additional chance to reduce the amount of unwanted pregnancies. The individual and empathetic gynecological councelling of female adolescents constituts the mutual trust to clarify issues relating to bodily functions and sexuality. Subsequently it may open the door to discuss other aspects of health-prevention, e.g. regular health screening-services and HPV-vaccination as well as aspects of lifestyle improvement. Current data and guidelines for contraception in girls and young women are presented.