As a parent, one of the many important decisions you may have to make for your teenager is to start them on birth control. With so many options available, deciding which method of oral contraception for teens is best suited for your teen can be overwhelming.
Let’s discuss oral contraception and the different types of birth control pills available for teens. By understanding the options, you can make an informed decision that best suits your teen’s needs.
Understanding Oral Contraceptives
Oral contraceptives, widely recognized as birth control pills, are a prevalent form of hormonal birth control that has been used by millions of people worldwide for several decades. These pills are taken orally each day and are 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
The Science Behind How Oral Contraceptives Work
Oral contraceptives function by delivering specific hormones into the body that interrupt the regular process of ovulation, which is the release of an egg from the ovaries each month. When ovulation is prevented, there’s no egg available for potential fertilization by sperm, thus preventing pregnancy.
In addition to inhibiting ovulation, the hormones in birth control pills also alter the lining of the uterus. This change makes it less likely for a fertilized egg to attach itself and develop.
Moreover, these hormones cause the mucus in the cervix to thicken, creating a sort of biological barrier that hinders sperm from traveling up into the uterus and reaching any egg that may have been released.
Types of Oral Contraception for Teens
There are primarily two types of birth control pills: combination pills and progestin-only pills.
Combination Pills
Combination pills contain two types of hormones: estrogen and progestin. The presence of both these hormones makes combination pills highly effective at preventing pregnancy when taken correctly.
Combination pills come in different forms based on how the hormones are distributed throughout the pill pack. Some deliver the same level of hormones throughout the entire cycle (monophasic), while others vary the hormone levels at different times of the cycle (multiphasic).
Combination pills are highly effective when taken correctly. They can also help teens with acne, heavy periods, and menstrual cramps.
Progestin-Only Pills (Mini-Pills)
Progestin-only pills, often referred to as the mini-pill, contain just one type of hormone: progestin. These are typically prescribed for teens who cannot take estrogen due to certain health problems or sensitivities.
The mini-pill, like the combination pill, prevents pregnancy by thickening cervical mucus and thinning the lining of the uterus. Some types also suppress ovulation. Since they contain a lower dose of hormones, these pills must be taken simultaneously each day to ensure effectiveness.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Birth Control Pill
Not all birth control pills are created equal, and various factors should be taken into account when deciding which pill is the most suitable. Here are some factors that your teen’s adolescent medicine specialist will take into account before prescribing oral contraceptives.
Medical History
A teen’s medical history plays a significant role in determining the type of birth control pill they can safely use. For example, if your teen has a history of blood clots, a condition known as thrombosis, the teen’s provider may advise against using combination pills, as these contain estrogen, which can slightly increase the risk of developing blood clots.
In such cases, progestin-only pills, also known as mini-pills, might be a safer alternative as they don’t contain estrogen.
Side Effects of Oral Contraception for Teens
All medications, including birth control pills, can cause side effects. Both combination pills and mini-pills can cause side effects like nausea, breast tenderness, slight weight gain, and mood changes.
It’s important to discuss these potential effects with your teen’s adolescent medicine specialist so that they can make an informed decision. Sometimes, switching to a different pill can alleviate side effects.
Lifestyle
The daily routine and lifestyle of your teen should also factor into the choice of birth control pill. Combination pills offer a little more flexibility than mini pills when it comes to timing, as they are effective as long as they are taken once daily.
Conversely, mini-pills need to be taken within the same 3-hour window each day to ensure effectiveness.
Additional Benefits of Oral Contraception for Teens
Apart from preventing pregnancy, some birth control pills offer additional health benefits. For instance, combination pills can help manage acne and reduce symptoms of heavy or painful periods. These added benefits might make combination pills a more attractive option for teens struggling with these issues.
Oral Contraception for Teens Near me in Purchase, NY
At BridgeSpan Medicine, we understand that choosing the right birth control method for your teen is a significant decision that involves careful consideration. Our dedicated team of adolescent medicine specialists is here to help guide you and your teen through this process.
We not only prescribe oral contraceptives but also provide you and your teen with comprehensive information about the different types of birth control pills, their effectiveness, potential side effects, and additional benefits they may offer.
To learn more about contraception options for your teen, schedule your consultation today with us by calling (914) 698-5544 or filling out our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
