[Adolescents and contraception. What should the pediatrician know? (Part 2)]

Abstract

Many adolescents are sexually active and reproductive health is an important aspect of adolescent medicine. However, pediatricians are often uncomfortable with the issues of sexuality and contraception, for which they have not been particularly trained. The general purpose of this article is to increase pediatricians' sense of competence with adolescents, particularly when having to deal with or counsel on such a sensitive issue as contraception. This second of two parts addresses confidentiality and prescription of oral contraceptives to minors, how to ask questions about sexual and reproductive life, best initial choice and eventual subsequent switch of contraceptive pill, acne and oral contraception, problems with mental handicap, and finally, what about boys. Pediatricians interested in the care of adolescents are strongly invited to keep developing their expertise in the field of sexuality, contraception and reproductive health.