Approximately 56% of Australian women first experience sexual intercourse at 15-16 years of age. More than 70% of sexually active women aged 15 to 60 report using contraception, and while the prevalence of contraceptive use in Australian women aged 15-60 is more than 70%, more than 50% of unplanned pregnancies in Australia occur in women who were using contraception. The rate of unwanted pregnancies that result in terminations remains highest in women younger than 25 years.
It is important to assess sexual history, reactions to previous contraceptive medications, current contraceptive practices and risk-taking behaviours, to assess your patient’s contraceptive needs. Young women may feel uncomfortable discussing their sexual history and contraceptive needs and many may have concerns regarding independence, parental oversight and privacy. Developing an honest, caring, non-judgemental attitude and a relaxed, matter-of-fact approach to asking questions can help patients feel comfortable.