During the past three decades, the level of sexual activity by adolescents in the United States has increased. The majority of adolescents begin having sexual intercourse by mid- to late-adolescence, with an average age at first intercourse between 15 and 17 years old. There is no evidence that refusal to provide contraception to an adolescent results in abstinence or postponement of sexual activity. In fact, if adolescents perceive obstacles to obtaining contraception and condoms, they are more likely to have negative outcomes to sexual activity. In addition, there is no evidence that provision of information to adolescents about contraception results in increased rates of sexual activity, earlier age of first intercourse, or a greater number of partners. Pediatricians should encourage abstinence and provide appropriate counseling about sexual behaviors. Counseling should include discussion about the prevention of sexually transmitted diseases, education on contraceptive methods, and family planning services for the sexually active patient. When these services are provided in the pediatrician's office, policies and procedures for the provision of such services should be developed. This policy statement provides information on counseling adolescents about contraception, confidentiality and consent, sexual responsibility, sexual decision-making, methods of contraception, abstinence, condoms, spermicides and condoms, oral contraceptives, medroxyprogesterone acetate injection, levonorgestrel implants, intrauterine devices, diaphragm and cervical cap, rhythm and other periodic abstinence methods, withdrawal, emergency contraceptive pills, and compliance and follow-up. 65 references and tables that show factors associated with early and later initiation of sexual intercourse, benefits of oral contraceptives, and emergency contraception choices