Emergency Contraception Update for Adolescents and Young Adults: Guidance for Health Care Professionals

Abstract

Emergency contraception (EC) refers to methods of contraception that can be used to prevent pregnancy after sexual intercourse. It is an important treatment, especially for adolescents and young adults (AYAs), as it can prevent pregnancy after unprotected or underprotected intercourse, some methods are easy to use and access, and there are very few contraindications to use. This group (AYA) are at considerable risk for unintended pregnancy and have many barriers to contraception and timely receipt of EC due to age, dependence on family for insurance and transportation, and cost and lack of or misinformation about EC methods. Many may not seek care due to concerns about privacy and confidentiality. This position paper reviews barriers to EC for AYAs and offers strategies to improve access in a timely, AYA-focused manner.