Birth control for Teens – Everything you should know

Choosing the best option

There are different types of birth control methods available and it is important that teenagers choose the correct birth control as each method has benefits, risks, and complications associated with them. In order to select the right and suitable method, teenagers should speak to well-informed adult including parents or healthcare providers.

Types

When it comes to selecting the type of method, there’s no real one-size-fits-all solution. The method you choose depends on what’s convenient for you and what works best with your body.

Below listed are some of the most popular and easy-to-use birth control methods:

1. Birth control or Contraceptive pills

Oral contraceptive pills are a very popular birth control method and it contains both, progestin and estrogen.

2. Condoms

Unlike most forms of contraception, condoms do not require any prescription and are easily available online or at a supermarket. A big advantage of using condom is that apart from preventing pregnancy, they can also reduce the risk of contracting STI. They can also be used alongside with other birth control methods further reducing the chance of unwanted pregnancy.

3. IUDs and Implants

These are long-term and most effective birth control methods which can even be removed early, if preferred. These are low-maintenance options which once inserted don’t need to be worried about.

The implant is a matchstick-sized plastic rod that’s inserted under your skin. It releases the hormone progestin, which prevents ovulation. It is 99% effective and one doesn’t need a pelvic exam to obtain an implant. However, one needs to visit a healthcare professional to get it inserted.

Similarly, pelvic exam and prescription is required for IUD insertion too.

4. Diaphragm

A diaphragm is a cap-like object that needs to be inserted into the vagina before any sexual activity. It blocks the cervix and prevents the sperm from travelling inwards.

While there are other forms of birth control for teens, the ones mentioned above are the most common ones.

Fertility awareness (also called the ‘Rhythm Method’)

The rhythm method involves tracking of menstrual cycle to find out the most fertile period to conceive. This helps to avoid activities that may introduce semen to the vaginal canal which in turn can help to reduce the chances of getting pregnant.

Fertility awareness combined with another method, like condoms, can further reduce the chances of unwanted pregnancy.

STI and Pregnancy Prevention

As stated, birth control is used for various reasons, two of the main ones being pregnancy prevention and STI prevention. While pregnancy can be prevented by most types of birth control, STI can only be controlled by condoms because they prevent the male and female fluid contact during intercourse. This effectively blocks the transmission of STIs.

Conclusion:

There are many ways of birth control for teenagers. But before choosing, they must discuss the possibilities with an adult or a physician to make the right decision.

Sources

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/birth-control-for-teens#types

https://www.webmd.com/sex/birth-control/birth-control-teens

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/teen/dating-sex/Pages/Birth-Control-for-Sexually-Active-Teens.aspx

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on September 19, 2022