IUD Use in Adolescents With Disabilities.

Abstract

* Abbreviation: IUD — : intrauterine device Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are safe, highly effective, and recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists as a first-line contraceptive option for adolescents.1,2 In this month’s Pediatrics , Schwartz et al3 examine the use of IUDs among adolescents with disabilities, providing further evidence that IUDs are safe for menstrual management and contraception in this population. In their work, Schwartz et al3 raise 3 important issues in IUD use and contraceptive decisions among adolescents with disabilities: recognition of the adolescent’s sexuality and rights to sexual and reproductive health; the need to incorporate quality of life into risk/benefit decisions; and the use of shared and supported decision-making approaches to maximize autonomy and dignity. Sexuality is an intrinsic aspect of human nature, and, like all adolescents, those with disabilities experience sexual development, romantic and sexual … Address correspondence to Cynthia Robbins, MD, MS, Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, Division of Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, 410 West 10th St, HS 1001, Indianapolis, IN 46202. E-mail: cyrobbin{at}iu.edu