Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology: Are there any special contraceptive considerations for teenagers?

The full range of contraceptive options should be available. The easiest contraceptive for them to obtain is condoms. These have advantages in the prevention of sexually transmitted disease but may not be the most effective contraceptive. Teenage sex is often unplanned and condom usage is therefore variable.

The combined oral contraceptive pill is the most effective method and it is simple to use. The disadvantage is that it provides no protection against sexually transmitted disease. The combination of pill and condom is the ideal if suitable encouragement can be provided. Breakthrough bleeding on the pill may be due to poor compliance or perhaps pelvic infection. There is no definite evidence that the phasic pills (2) are less likely to cause this problem. Furthermore, the phasic pills do not lend themselves so easily to cycle adjustment such as taking two packets back-to-back to avoid menstruation at difficult times such as vacations. The combined oral contraceptive pill provides good cycle control and may have advantages in reducing menstrual flow and painful periods. An additional benefit is that acne and hirsutism may improve.

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Women's Health

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