AAP Updates Guidelines for Contraceptive Counseling in Adolescents

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has released updated recommendations for providing contraceptive counseling and access to methods for adolescent patients, aiming to improve reproductive health care among youth. Published online on June 16, 2025, in the journal Pediatrics, the new policy emphasizes the importance of delivering evidence-informed and equity-focused contraception services. Led by Dr. Mary A. Ott from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, the update revises the 2014 policy to address evolving needs and challenges faced by adolescents.

The guidelines advocate for all pediatricians to offer comprehensive contraceptive information and counseling within a framework that promotes health equity. This approach ensures that adolescents, regardless of gender, age, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, health status, or ability, have access to the full range of contraceptive options suited to their goals and preferences. Developmentally appropriate counseling rooted in shared decision-making and person-centered care is crucial for empowering teens in making informed choices.

Furthermore, the recommendations highlight the need to consider the restricted access to abortion services in some states and to provide counseling that addresses this reality. When there are no contraindications, adolescents should be able to receive their preferred contraception on the same day as counseling—a best practice aimed at reducing barriers and delays.

To support these efforts, policies and products should be designed by governments, insurers, electronic health record vendors, and healthcare systems to ensure confidential, timely, and equitable contraceptive care. Dr. Ott emphasizes that pediatricians are vital in answering sensitive questions teens may hesitate to ask, fostering honest, compassionate, and science-based conversations about reproductive health. This education serves as a crucial step toward fostering independence and preparing adolescents for adulthood.

For further details, the full policy statement can be accessed through the Pediatrics journal.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-aap-adolescent-contraceptive.html