Contraception for adolescents

The two major groups of contraceptives available to adolescents are simple and prescribed methods. Of the former, spermicidal agents and condoms alone or in combination offer some protection. Of the prescribed methods, oral contraceptives and intrauterine devices offer best protection. The risk of pregnancy and the mortality and pathologic risks involved in the use of each method must be considered. The indications, contraindications and specific guidelines for prescribing contraceptives in this age group cannot be uniformly applied to all adolescents; therefore, individualization is always necessary.