The role of hormonal contraception in adolescents

Most pregnancies in women under age 20 years, as well as more than half of the pregnancies in the United States, are unintended. Contraceptive use is especially poor in adolescents, for whom the socioeconomic and educational consequences are great. A 1988 study indicated that more than 8% of sexually active adolescents had two or more sexual partners within the previous 3 months, higher than any other age group. The reasons why adolescents do not use contraception effectively fall into two categories: lack of access to contraceptive information and noncompliance with contraceptive recommendations. Studies have demonstrated that educational programs incorporating decision-making and communication skills, self-esteem enhancement, and peer influence can result in a decrease in the rate of adolescent sexual activity and pregnancy. Knowledge-based programs alone do not correlate with postponement of sexual activity or the use of contraceptives. In a survey of more than 4000 sex education teachers, 80% replied that they are in need of "factual information, materials, and strategies. In a true/false examination given to educators on contraception, few correct answers were recorded regarding potential side effects of oral contraceptives. Effective counseling and communication with adolescents require an understanding of adolescent development.