What You Should Know about Birth Control Options for Teens
As a teen facing important decisions about your health and well-being, it can be hard to know who to trust for guidance. When it comes to the best birth control options for teens, knowing what’s available and how it works empowers you to make informed decisions about your reproductive health and safety.
And while there’s no one like a trusted doctor to walk you through what you need to know, we’ll explore various birth control options tailored to meet your unique needs. Read up and prep for a detailed conversation at your next visit with your provider.
Need an experienced and compassionate doctor for support? Dr. Lona Sasser Obstetrics & Gynecology offers comprehensive services for patients of all ages, including adolescent gynecology and birth control.
Making an appointment is easy. Book online or call our friendly and knowledgeable office staff at (954) 340-1050.
Contraception for Teens: A Compassionate Approach
When it comes to birth control options for teens, it’s essential to begin with open and honest communication. Your trusted doctor should hold space for you to talk about your body and your potential sexual activity. You should feel safe bringing up concerns and asking questions.
It’s never too early to talk about birth control. Getting contraceptive counseling from your doctor doesn’t mean you’re committing to starting birth control. Rather, it provides an opportunity to gather information and make informed choices, even if you change your mind later or decide to wait a while to get started.
You should receive compassionate care and feel heard by your doctor. They should give you straight answers and never make you feel ashamed or embarrassed.
Know Your Birth Control Options for Teens
Having sex can be fun, but it comes with potential risks at any age. Sex with any partner can spread infections (STIs) or result in pregnancy, so it’s crucial to understand how to keep yourself safe.
Here’s a run-down of some popular forms of contraception that can be great birth control options for teens:
Barrier Methods
Teens can opt for barrier methods such as condoms, which not only offer excellent, reliable protection against pregnancies but also provide a barrier against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). But keep in mind that condoms only work if used consistently.
Oral Contraceptives
Birth control pills, aka oral contraceptives, are another birth control option for teens. These pills contain hormones like estrogen and progestin, which can help regulate your period and prevent pregnancy. They have to be taken consistently on a daily schedule to be effective.
Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs)
LARCs, such as intrauterine devices (IUDs) and hormonal implants, offer teens a convenient and highly effective birth control option. IUDs are small devices inserted into the uterus by a medical provider. They’re a great choice because they provide lasting protection from pregnancy without the need for daily attention. IUDs can be hormone-free, depending on the type you choose.
Hormonal implants, placed under the skin, release hormones to prevent pregnancy for an extended period. Neither the pill nor these methods keep you safe from STIs, but you can double up with a barrier.
Birth Control Can Support Teen Bodies
When talking through the best birth control options for teens, let your doctor know if you’re experiencing symptoms that hormonal treatments might support.
For example, if you are experiencing irregular, heavy, or painful periods, birth control pills can serve a dual purpose. Besides preventing pregnancy, they can help regulate your cycle and alleviate painful periods.
The right birth control can also support acne management by regulating hormone levels. Discussing acne concerns with your provider can lead to a birth control option that addresses both your reproductive health and skincare.
Take charge of your reproductive health
To make an empowered choice from among the birth control options for teens, you need a doctor who can support you totally.
The best provider for you will listen and offer education, open communication, and respect for your individual choices. Remember, the key to making informed decisions lies in seeking guidance, understanding the options, and choosing a birth control method that aligns with your unique needs and circumstances.
At Lona Sasser Obstetrics & Gynecology, your health is our top priority. We regularly consult with our patients on the available choices for birth control.
Schedule your appointment today at 954-340-1050 or book online.
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