The thoroughly updated Third Edition of this practical handbook is a current, reliable, and readable guide to the intelligent use of today's contraceptive options. The book provides the essential information that clinicians and patients need to choose the best contraceptive method for the patient's medical, social, and personal characteristics.Each contraceptive method is covered in a single chapter that includes history of the contraceptive, method of action, pharmacology (when applicable), contraindications, and use. Included are detailed descriptions of procedures such as emergency contraception, placement of Norplant, and pharmacologically induced abortion. This new edition will incorporate RU-486.