By kgilberg (20, F, CA)
A sexually active teenager who does not use contraceptives has a 90% chance of becoming pregnant within one year.
13% of all U.S. births are to teens.
Methods of Contraception:
Oral Contraceptives (OCs, The Pill): OCs contain two hormones, estrogen and progestin. The Pill is taken daily, and these hormones prevent your ovaries from releasing eggs. When taken correctly, the pill is more than 99% effective. There are other benefits to OCs besides contraception such as more regular periods, less menstrual bleeding and pain, as well as positive affects on the skin (acne). You may also want to look up information about “injectable” Birth Control.
Vaginal Ring: A flexible plastic ring about 2 inches in diameter and about 1/8 of an inch thick. You can easily insert the ring into the vagina where it stays for 3 weeks. During this period it releases a very low dose of hormones similar to those used in OCs. The ring is available by prescription by a doctor, but you can easily insert the ring yourself. The contraceptive ring is designed to protect against pregnancy for four weeks. The ring remains in the vagina for three weeks and is then removed for one week to make way for a menstrual period. A new ring must be inserted every month. This form of Contraceptive is 98-99% when used as directed.
Implants: Match-sized plastic rods are inserted just underneath the skin in the upper arm. The rods release a constant dose of a progestin, which stops ovulation. Once in place implants will last for a period of 3-5 years or until it is removed. Implants are just as, or even more, reliable than sterilization.
Intrauterine Device (IUD): In this method, a physician carefully places a flexible plastic device with a copper wire inside the uterus. Since the IUD is shaped to fit snugly into the uterus, you never feel it. The copper wire changes the chemistry within the uterus and prevents the sperm from fertilizing the egg. The IUD may also interfere with the implantation of a fertilized egg. This method is 98% effective at preventing pregnancy.
Diaphragm: The diaphragm is a prescribed and fitted, dome-shaped rubber disk that you insert into the vagina before having intercourse. It must stay in place for 6 hours but no longer than 24 hours after intercourse. It is about 92-96% effective. It is most effective when used with spermicide, and it is recommended that a Diaphragm is always used with spermicide (which is foam that kills sperm).
Cervical Cap: The cervical cap is a soft rubber cup with a round rim that fits snugly around the cervix. It is smaller than a diaphragm and uses suction to stay in place. The cap must be fitted by a health professional and should be used with a spermicide. It prevents sperm from entering the uterus and can be inserted into the vagina anytime before intercourse. 10-13 women out of 100 who use the cap for one year will become pregnant.
Abstinence: Abstinence simply means no sexual intercourse and it’s the only sure way that you will not get pregnant. This method is 100% effective; none of the other contraceptives can even compare. Though, if you are having sex, make sure that you are seeing a doctor to get tested (or anonymously at Planned Parenthood) and that you are being as safe as possible.
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• More Info On Contraception & Sexual Health
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