Update on adolescent contraception

This article reviews the most common types of contraceptive agents used by adolescents, including their epidemiology of use and future developments. Oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) are reviewed, with emphasis on the less androgenic progestins, risk of venous thrombosis, factor V Leiden mutation and OCP use, and the 20-mu g estrogen formulations. Depomedroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) use is reviewed, examining the role of changes in bone-mineral density. Decreasing Norplant (Wyeth-Ayerst, Philadelphia, PA) use is reviewed, as is its efficacy and side-effect profile. Various methods of emergency postcoital contraception are reviewed, with emphasis on efficacy and method of action.