A 17-Year-Old Sexually Active Female Presents To Your Clinic
A 17 Year Old Sexually Active Female Presents To Your Clinic And Repor
A 17-year-old sexually active female presents to your clinic and reports that she is interested in starting birth control. Briefly discuss at least three birth control options and be sure to mention the pros/cons/indications/contraindications for each method. Expectations Length: A minimum of 250 words, not including references Citations: At least one high-level scholarly reference in APA from within the last 5 years.
Paper For Above instruction
The choice of contraception in adolescents requires careful consideration of efficacy, safety, accessibility, and patient preference. Among the various options, hormonal methods such as combined oral contraceptives, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and implants are commonly recommended due to their high efficacy and convenience. Each method has its set of advantages and limitations, which should be evaluated in the context of the patient's health status and reproductive goals.
Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs) are among the most well-known contraceptive methods. They contain estrogen and progestin, working primarily by inhibiting ovulation. The advantages include high efficacy (over 99% with perfect use), regulation of menstrual cycles, reduction of menstrual cramps, and decreased acne severity. COCs are also easily reversible upon discontinuation. However, they carry risks such as an increased potential for thromboembolism, especially in women with smoking or underlying clotting disorders. Contraindications include a history of thromboembolic disease, certain migraines with aura, liver disease, or breast cancer. Additionally, adherence can be an issue, as missing doses decreases effectiveness.
Intrauterine Devices (IUDs), including hormonal (levonorgestrel-releasing) and copper devices, provide long-acting reversible contraception (LARC). The hormonal IUD has a failure rate of less than 1%, making it highly effective. It also offers benefits like reduction in menstrual bleeding and dysmenorrhea. Copper IUDs are non-hormonal, suitable for patients who prefer non-hormonal options, and also feature high efficacy. Contraindications for IUDs include current pelvic infections, unexplained vaginal bleeding, and certain anatomical abnormalities. The insertion procedure may cause discomfort, and although rare, risks like perforation exist.
Implants such as etonogestrel implants are subdermal devices offering over 99% efficacy. They are convenient, with a lifespan of up to three years, and do not require daily adherence. They may cause irregular bleeding patterns and are contraindicated in women with a current or past history of breast cancer. The insertion process necessitates a clinical procedure, which may cause minor discomfort.
In conclusion, the selection of an appropriate contraceptive method for a young woman involves an assessment of safety profiles, individual health risks, lifestyle, and preferences. Healthcare providers should discuss these options comprehensively, addressing potential benefits and risks, to empower adolescents to make informed decisions about their reproductive health. Using current guidelines and evidence-based practices ensures optimal outcomes for adolescent contraception management.
References
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2020). Long-Acting Reversible Contraception: Implants and Intrauterine Devices. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 135(4), e128–e144. https://doi.org/10.1097/AOG.0000000000003834
Culwell, K. R., & Richardson, D. (2019). Contraceptive Choices for Young Women. The Journal of Family Practice, 68(9), 552–558. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31673604
World Health Organization. (2018). Medical eligibility criteria for contraceptive use (5th ed.). WHO Press.
Darney, P. D., & McKee, K. T. (2021). Contraceptive methods: Comparing efficacy and safety in adolescents. Pediatric Clinics of North America, 68(3), 519–534. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pcl.2021.03.001
Studnicki, J., & Sasso, G. (2020). Contraceptive Options for Adolescents. Pediatric Annals, 49(4), e161–e167. https://doi.org/10.3928/19382359-20200313-01
Gavin, L., et al. (2021). Contraceptive use among U.S. women and girls aged 15–44. MMWR. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 70(10), 399–404.