Abstract

Adolescent pregnancy is a medical and social problem.
Sexually active adolescents are more likely to seek contraception if they perceive pregnancy as a negative outcome, have long-term educational goals, are older, experience a pregnancy scare or actual pregnancy, or have family, friends, and/or a clinician who encourage the use of contraception. Barriers that may impede adolescent access to contraceptive services include lack of access to confidential services and concerns about side effects. Before initiating contraception, it is important to review the adolescent's history for absolute or relative contraindications, discuss the risks and benefits, and obtain consent.