Alternatives to oral regimens of contraception.

Alternatives to oral contraceptives are an integral part of contraception used worldwide. In order to empower women to correctly use contraception for as long as they choose not to become pregnant, healthcare practitioners and their patients must be educated about these methods as well as the full spectrum of available birth control options. Effective counseling is a key factor in helping a woman effectively chose a method that is appropriate for her. In order for contraceptive counseling to be effective, information should be accurate and provided in an unbiased manner. This review will help provide healthcare practitioners with current information regarding the use of nonoral contraceptives so as to facilitate the counseling of women and allow them to make informed and appropriate contraceptive decisions.