Adolescents and young women face distinct challenges that are specific to their gender when it comes to sexual health and family planning. Finding accessible, affordable, and reliable contraception methods that suit their needs can be a daunting task.
Despite the challenges, finding the right contraception method is crucial. The right contraception method can help adolescent and young women take better control of their reproductive health, protect them from unwanted pregnancies, and protect them from sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Let’s discuss some contraception options for young women and adolescents and the considerations they should make when choosing the right method.
What is Contraception?
Contraception, also known as birth control, refers to methods or devices used to prevent pregnancy. There are many different types of contraception available, and they work in various ways. The most common ones are:
Barrier Methods
Barrier methods of contraception work by creating a physical barrier that prevents sperm from reaching the egg, thereby preventing fertilization and pregnancy. Two common types of barrier methods are condoms and diaphragms.
Condoms
These are thin sheaths, usually made of latex or polyurethane, that are worn on the penis during intercourse. They catch the sperm to prevent it from entering the vagina.
There are also female condoms that can be inserted into the vagina. Condoms have the added benefit of protecting against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Diaphragms
A diaphragm is a shallow, dome-shaped cup made of silicone. It’s inserted into the vagina before sexual activity and acts as a barrier to stop sperm from meeting an egg.
Hormonal Methods
Hormonal methods of contraception use hormones to regulate or stop ovulation, preventing the possibility of pregnancy. They include birth control pills, patches, injections, and implants.
Birth Control Pills
These are taken orally every day at the same time. They contain the hormones estrogen and progestin, which prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus to block sperm, and thin the lining of the uterus.
Patches, Injections, and Implants
These methods release hormones into the body over a longer period. The patch is applied to the skin, the injection is administered in thebloodstream or muscles, and the implant is inserted under the skin.
Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)
An IUD is a small T-shaped device that’s inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider. There are two types of IUDs—hormonal and copper.
Hormonal IUDs release progestin, which thickens cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg and thins the uterine lining. Copper IUDs produce an inflammatory reaction, which is toxic to sperm.
Emergency Contraception
Also known as the ‘morning-after pill,’ emergency contraception is used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure (like a broken condom).
There are two types—pills that contain ulipristal acetate or levonorgestrel and the copper IUD. Pills must be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex. The sooner they’re taken, the better they work. The copper IUD can be inserted up to five days after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy.
Special Considerations for Adolescents and Young Women Using Contraception
When choosing a contraceptive method, there are several factors to consider:
Safety and Effectiveness
Special considerations for adolescents and young women include safety and effectiveness. The hormonal contraception pill and other methods can cause side effects, such as mood swings, acne, and weight gain.
These changes can be alarming for teens and young women and may lead to discontinuation of the contraceptive method. Therefore, adolescent medicine doctors can help by:
- Educating adolescents and young women about the safety and efficacy of contraceptives
- Monitoring side effects, especially during the first few months of use.
- Prescribing alternative contraception method.
Confidentiality
Adolescents and young women may have privacy concerns when seeking contraception, which can be a barrier to accessing necessary services. Adolescent medicine doctors play a crucial role in ensuring confidentiality for their patients. They can help by:
- Assuring patients that their discussions are private and that information will not be disclosed without their consent.
- Informing patients about their rights. In many U.S. states, including NY, minors can consent to contraceptive services, and these services are confidential under the law.
- Providing a safe and non-judgmental environment where adolescents can freely discuss their sexual health concerns.
Access
Access to contraception can be challenging for adolescents and young women, particularly those still in school. Factors like cost, availability, and transportation can limit their options. Adolescent medicine doctors can assist by:
- Providing comprehensive information about different contraceptive methods and their costs.
- Discussing insurance coverage and directing patients to resources that offer affordable or free contraceptives.
- Referring patients to clinics or pharmacies that are accessible to them. In some cases, long-acting reversible contraceptives, like IUDs or implants, can be a good option as they don’t require regular trips to a clinic or pharmacy.
Consistency of Use
Consistent use is crucial for the effectiveness of some contraceptive methods, such as birth control pills. However, remembering to take a pill every day can be challenging for adolescents. Adolescent medicine doctors can help by:
- Explaining the importance of consistent use of certain methods.
- Discussing alternative options that require less frequent attention. For instance, IUDs or injections might be more suitable for some patients.
- Providing strategies to remember daily medications, such as setting reminders on the phone.
Contraception Near Me in Purchase, NY
Adolescent years are a crucial time for sexual health education, and understanding contraception is an essential part of this.
At BridgeSpan Medicine, our team of experienced providers understands that each adolescent has unique needs, and we are committed to providing comprehensive and confidential contraceptive counseling and care. We offer a range of contraceptive options and provide detailed information about their use, effectiveness, potential side effects, and what to do if a dose is missed.
To learn more about us or to schedule a consultation, contact us today at (914) 698-5544 or fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
