U.S. Selected Practice Recommendations for Contraceptive Use, 2013

Unintended pregnancy rates remain high in the United States and these pregnancies may carry increased risks for negative health outcomes. Lack of contraceptive use and inconsistent use are important contributors to the high rate of unintended pregnancies. Women may face certain barriers to starting contraception and using it effectively. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recently developed the U.S. Selected Practice Recommendations for Contraceptive Use, 2013, which provides guidance for common yet sometimes complex issues in contraceptive management. This guidance aims to reduce barriers to contraceptive use by providing clear recommendations for providers to assist women in initiating and using contraceptive methods to maximize effectiveness and decrease risk of unintended pregnancy.