Contraception in the teenager. A comparison of four methods of contraception in adolescent girls.

The continuation rates, side effects and use-effectiveness of four types of contraceptive were studied during a two-year follow-up period in a group of 160 teenage girls of high socioeconomic standing who hd requested contraception advice. The method of contraception was selected by the girls after a discussion of the alternatives. Results showed good rates of continuation among girls selecting oral contraceptives, the intrauterine device (IUD) and condoms. Side effects and complications preclude the widespread use of oral contraceptives and the IUD in adoescents. There were no serious complications with the use of condoms or vaginal foam, but their use-effectiveness was lower than that of the pill or IUD. The condom is a reasonable alternative for motivated girls. The continuation rate was low in the group selecting the foam method and this form of contraception was quickly abandoned.