[How to improve use of emergency contraception by adolescents?].
OBJECTIVE
To give an overview of knowledge on emergency contraception (EC) and its utilization in the adolescent population, and to present the practical guidelines useful for EC prescription.


METHODS
Review of the literature on EC and results of a survey on sexual behavior of 16-20-year-olds in Switzerland are used.


RESULTS
Both estrogen-progestin and estrogen are used for EC. Condom breakage, lack of compliance in oral contraception and failure in contraceptive use are the main reasons for using EC. Sexually active adolescents are aware of CPC and 20% of girls have used it in Switzerland. However, insufficient information and low quality of services in emergency situation could be important barriers to the use of EC.


CONCLUSIONS
and conclusion. Practical knowledge and information on EC must be disseminated among adolescents and both professional training and development of the quality of services have to provide better access to EC.
Ottesen
S
S
Institut Universitaire de Médecine Sociale et Préventive, Groupe de recherche sur la santé des adolescents, 17, rue du Bugnon, 1005 Lausanne, Suisse.
Narring
F
F
Renteria
S C
SC
Michaud
P A
PA
D000293:Adolescent; D000294:Adolescent Behavior; D000328:Adult; D003281:Contraceptives, Postcoital / Q000008:administration & dosage; D005260:Female; D006266:Health Education; D006801:Humans; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D012725:Sexual Behavior; D013557:Switzerland
D003281:Contraceptives, Postcoital