Contraception for specific populations.

Almost half of the pregnancies in the United States each year are unintended. Although there are multiple contraceptive options available, providers often struggle with meeting the special requirements of adolescent, postpartum, and perimenopausal patients. Adolescents often have trouble adhering to a contraceptive regimen; postmenopausal women face an increasing risk of medical comorbidities. With postpartum women, the risks and benefits of the method must be considered for both the woman and the infant. The contraceptive needs of these populations are specifically addressed in this article.