The use of nonhormonal methods of contraception in adolescents

Over the past three decades nonhormonal methods have reemerged as a staple in the clinician's repertoire of contraceptive offerings. Nonhormonal methods of contraception, although not as effective at preventing pregnancy as hormonal methods, should be offered to every high-risk sexually active adolescent in an effort to reduce the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases. The various nonhormonal methods of contraception available to adolescents are compared in terms of their mechanism of action, usage, effectiveness, advantages, and disadvantages. The future of nonhormonal contraceptives and contraceptive counseling also are addressed in this article.