The use of nonhormonal methods of contraception in adolescents

Over the past three decades nonhormonal methods have reemerged as a staple in the clinician's repertoire of contraceptive offerings. Nonhormonal metho ds of contraception, although not as effective at preventing pregnancy as h ormonal methods, should be offered to every high-risk sexually active adole scent in an effort to reduce the transmission of sexually transmitted disea ses. The various nonhormonal methods of contraception available to adolesce nts are compared in terms of their mechanism of action, usage, effectivenes s, advantages, and disadvantages. The future of nonhormonal contraceptives and contraceptive counseling also are addressed in this article.