Contraception for young women

Women who require contraception should be given information about all methods and offered a full range of choices,¹ including advice about long-acting reversible contraception (LARC). Verbal and written information should be provided to all women.

Contraceptive counselling should be individualised to the woman and her needs. Efficacy, risks and benefits, and how to start and stop the contraceptive method should be discussed.

It is particularly important to assess the risk of STIs in young people and helpful to establish whether the young person wishes to start or continue condom use to minimise the risk of STIs. Nurses can advise where supplies can be obtained and how to access sexual health screening and emergency contraception.¹