Description This issue of Clinics will focus on innovations in contraception as well as medical and public health barriers to reducing unintended
pregnancy. Described in this issue are a number of contraceptive innovations developed over the last few years, including the contraceptive
patch and ring as well as the hormonal intrauterine system and hormonal implants. The very effective options, including the IUD and
hormonal implants, have appealed to women who previously did not use contraception or used less effective methods. Other contraceptive
innovations described include novel approaches to contraception: Treating the need for contraception as an emergency, using "quick
start" methods of initiating contraceptives, expanding the profile of women considered good candidates for IUDs, and using extended
dosing regimens for hormonal contraceptives. At the systems level, this issue will examine legislation, regulations and funding of contraception,
factors that have a major impact on access and use. The last decade has seen both improvements in contraceptive usage and continued
barriers to improved access. We suggest ways to improve contraceptive use and access over the years to come.
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