Family planning in adolescents.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

As politics continue to shape contraception and abortion care, providers have a responsibility to address the specific needs of the adolescent patient. Here we review the current literature on contraception and abortion in adolescents.

RECENT FINDINGS

Shared decision-making among patients, parents, and providers is the cornerstone of successful adolescent family planning. Providers should be aware of local state regulations related to consent in minors. When provided directive and noncoercive contraception counseling at no cost, adolescents are motivated and effective decision-makers in their care. Long-acting reversible contraceptives should be offered as the first-line method of contraception in adolescents.

SUMMARY

Family planning in adolescents presents unique challenges to obstetrician-gynecologists. Improved access to contraception and abortion services is significantly lowering unintended pregnancies rates in adolescents, but more data assessing the effectiveness of interventions in marginalized communities are needed.