Update in Adolescent Contraception

Pregnancy rates in the United States seem to have stabilized in the past decade but continue to be higher than those in other industrialized nations. Although abstinence and barrier methods are available and efficient in preventing pregnancy, a comprehensive approach is a better choice when counseling patients on available options. The new approach to old contraceptive methods provides new alternatives to adolescents seeking safe and reliable methods. The availability and proved safety with longterm reversible contraceptive methods, such as the intrauterine system and subdermal implant, may allow adolescents to make better choices in preventing pregnancy. Future efforts in research should concentrate on finding the reasons why adolescents are at increased risk for unplanned pregnancy and solutions for this problem. Future contraceptive technology continues to focus on safety and convenience to facilitate the use of contraceptives in adolescents.