Birth control counselling in an adolescent clinic.

The number of requests for contraceptive advice from the Teen Clinic at The Hospital for Sick Children increased in the past two years. Patients came directly or were referred by social service agencies. All were girls, nulliparous and unmarried and from 14 to 19 years old. Every patient was extensively interviewed and counselled with particular attention to sexual knowledge, emotional and social background. Individual decisions were made regarding the risk of unwanted pregnancy, the need for contraceptive advice and supply and the total health needs of the patient.