Bright Futures

The topic of birth control can be a confusing and embarrassing topic for many teens and their families. For some parents, they may find it difficult to have “the talk” with their teen and may feel uncomfortable answering questions related to contraception and sexual activity (our website offers some helpful tips for concerned parents).

Most forms of birth control contain human-made estrogen and progestin hormones, which are designed to prevent ovulation (releasing an egg during a menstrual cycle) and as a result, help prevent pregnancy. However, birth control is also a highly considered form of medication that offers many different non-contraceptive health benefits. Below, we outline some of more common uses of birth control medication for adolescents and teens, as well as some of the more frequently asked questions we receive from families within Phoenix Children’s Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology Clinic.

What are some reasons birth control may be considered for teens?

When used properly, birth control is highly effective in preventing pregnancy. However, providers may also prescribe birth control medication to help teens and young adults address other health concerns. Some non-contraceptive uses include:

• Helping alleviate heavy and/or painful menstruation (periods)
• Easing symptoms of menstrual migraines (headaches)
• Regulating menstrual cycles
• Suppressing or limiting periods (for example, to assist young women who have disabilities)
• Reducing symptoms related to pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
• Helping reduce or prevent acne
• Suppressing the development of ovarian cysts
• Lowering the risk of various forms of gynecologic cancer

If a provider determines that birth control may be an effective option to address these types of medical conditions, the next task is determining what type of birth control method is most appropriate.

What birth control methods are offered by providers at Phoenix Children’s?

There is a wide variety of birth control options available. It’s important that health care providers and families discuss viable options and help a teen decide which method is right for them. Here are just a few of the types of birth control methods available through Phoenix Children’s Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology Clinic:

• Pills, which are the most popular method, come in small sizes and are to be taken daily
• Patches, a small square patch that sticks to the skin and releases hormones through the skin into the bloodstream
• Vaginal ring, a small, flexible ring placed inside the vagina that releases hormones for up to three weeks
• Progestin injections, given like a flu shot and administered every 12 weeks
• Intrauterine devices (IUDs), a small plastic T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus
• Progestin arm implant, which is inserted into the inside of the upper arm and remains in place up to three years

Each of the above methods offers unique benefits and has associated risks. Speaking with a health care provider can help families and teens select an option that meet their needs.

IUDs and implants sound scary — are they safe for teens?

Both IUDs and arm implants, which are types of long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs), are considered safe for adolescents. In fact, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and American Academy of Pediatrics consider LARCs appropriate for use by adolescents and teens as an effective means of preventing pregnancy and offering non-contraceptive benefits, such as reducing menstrual blood flow and dysmenorrhea (painful periods).

Will using birth control at a young age make it difficult for a woman to become pregnant in the future?

No, using birth control at a young age does not affect a woman’s ability to get pregnant later in life. There are a lot of misconceptions about birth control and infertility. In general, when a woman stops using a method of birth control, she can become pregnant, if sexually active. In addition, menstruation (periods) will most likely revert to the kind of pattern experienced before starting birth control.

When choosing and maintaining a birth control method, it’s very important to keep a health care provider informed of menstrual cycles, symptoms and any possible concerns. At Phoenix Children’s, our dedicated pediatric and adolescent gynecology team has the specialized training and experience needed to help our patients, from newborn until they reach 25 years of age, with their gynecological issues.