Adolescent contraception: an overview

Adolescents are sexual beings who are undergoing important biological and social changes. Physicians must recognize the need for contraception in their teenage patients and realize when teenagers are asking for contraception. In order to deal effectively with the question of birth control, the physician must be comfortable with the issues of adolescent development and sexuality, as well as with his of her own sexuality. The birth-control pill remains the contraceptive prescription of choice, but other methods of birth control are discussed as well. Physicians must also be prepared to validate a teenager's decision not to engage in intercourse.