Small but meaningful link between teen oral contraceptives and future depression
August 2nd 2021Adolescent oral contraceptive use is associated with a small yet meaningful increased risk of experiencing an episode of major depressive disorder (MDD) in early adulthood, especially among women with no history of MDD in adolescence.
Emotion dysregulation in childhood may increase risk of anorexia nervosa as a teen
July 15th 2021Eating disorders have been associated with an inability to control one’s emotions. An investigation examines whether dysregulation in childhood may increase the risk of a future anorexia nervosa diagnosis when a child reaches adolescence.
Looking at mental health disparities in gender diverse and transgender teens
June 24th 2021Being a gender diverse and transgender adolescent can mean an increased risk of mental health concerns. When those concerns lead to treatment programs, are they more likely to have worse outcomes than their cisgender peers?
Improving HPV vaccine rates by training clinicians
May 27th 2021The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is a key intervention for a number of cancers, but the opportunity to discuss the vaccine is missed all too often. Could an online educational program help clinicians improve their HPV vaccine communication strategies?
NASPAG discusses COVID-19 vaccines and gynecological care considerations for teens and young adults
May 17th 2021Eligible children and teens should receive COVID-19 vaccination to protect them from COVID-19 infection, as well as to reduce the spread of the virus in the community and to vulnerable people, according to the statement from the North American Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology (NASPAG) .
CDC STI treatment guideline updates
May 5th 2021A session of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists 2021 annual meeting pointed to the dramatic increase in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the United States and presented highlights from the updated Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) STI guidelines.
Using ED visits to provide counsel on contraceptives
May 3rd 2021Not every adolescent female patient has a doctor to turn to for contraceptive counseling. An investigation reported at the virtual 2021 Pediatric Academic Societies meeting offered insight into whether addressing the concern at emergency department (ED) visits could work.
Adolescent marijuana use and anticipatory guidance: What does the evidence support?
April 8th 2021Over the past 9 years, a number of states have legalized the recreational use of marijuana in adults aged 21 years and older. Although teenagers aren't legally allowed to consume the substance, the legalization for adults can make it more available to teenagers and young adults. This article covers the latest evidence and offers recommendations for talking to teenagers.
When traditional Pap test is problematic, a blind Pap is adequate
April 5th 2021For some patients, the traditional Papanicolaou (Pap) test can be a traumatic event that shouldn't happen. An investigation examines whether a blind Pap test, which doesn't use a speculum, could be an adequate substitute.
Using programs to tackle mental health problems linked to racial discrimination
March 30th 2021Frequent experiences with racial discrimination often leads to negative mental health consequences for Black teenagers. A report examines whether programs meant to enhance caregiving practices could mitigate this association.