The majority of teenagers have sex before they reach eighteen years of age. Parents may find the topic of sex difficult to discuss with their adolescents. They may also have religious or moral reasons for disapproving of their child's sexual activity. However, being open to questions and concerns can bring the parent closer to his or her child. Being supportive of a daughter's decision to go on the contraceptive pill can also help her to avoid unwanted pregnancies or abortions. There are benefits, drawbacks and important considerations to remember when making this important choice.
The Benefits
The pill is easy to get by prescription at any health care clinic. The costs are covered by your medical plan. In some countries, the pill may soon be available over the counter at pharmacies. The nurse will usually provide a three month supply. When the teen girl returns for a refill, they will also check her blood pressure and ask her about side effects and sexual practices. The best part about the pill is its effectiveness.
Unlike any other form of birth control, apart from the IUD, which is not recommended for teens, the pill has over a 99% success rate. If taken regularly, the teenager girl is highly unlikely to get pregnant. In fact, “eighty-six percent of the recent decline in U.S. teen pregnancy rates is the result of improved contraceptive use,” claims Science Daily. Teenage pregnancy is not recommended due to the psychological and social costs it produces. Abortion is also a difficult option which should be avoided if possible.
The Drawbacks
Support for a daughter on the Pill is especially essential as it needs “to be taken regularly, preferably at the same time each day.” If the parent knows her child is taking this form of contraception they can make sure she remembers to incorporate it into her routine. Smokers should not take the pill. At first, it can cause side effects such as headaches, moodiness, weight gain, breast sensitivity, spotting in between periods or nausea. These effects should subside after three to six months. After this, much more rare side effects should be watched out for, like blood clots or persistent migraines.
Important Considerations
The teenage girl should not begin taking the Pill without a thorough knowledge of how her body functions. She should understand the workings of her reproductive organs and not be afraid of her sexuality. Ideally, she is in a relationship or at least not engaging in promiscuous behavior. The Pill does not prevent any sexually transmitted diseases. It should always be used in combination with condoms. If the Pill is used responsibly, it can assist the teenage girl to avoid some of the consequences of sex that no teenager should have to endure.
Disclaimer: This article contains information based on research and experience. A doctor should always be consulted prior to making any medical decisions.
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