There are many myths about birth control. Here are the facts so you can make the best decision for yourself or your young adult.
You don’t have to be sexually active to be on birth control.
Birth control can also be used to help control periods, cut down on menstrual cramps or fight acne (zits and pimples).
There is no right age to start birth control.
Some teens and young adults start birth control to help control periods or treat acne, while others start to prevent pregnancies. You are the best person to decide the timing and reasons for beginning birth control.
Birth control helps prevent unplanned pregnancies.
Some types of birth control work better than others. Learn more in the Birth Control Types tab of this webpage. It’s also important to note that condoms are the only birth control method that protect you from sexually transmitted infections.
There are different kinds of birth control other than the pill.
Some forms of birth control are taken by mouth, some are given with a shot and some are placed into your body by a health care professional. See the chart in the Birth Control Types tab on this webpage to find out what birth control might fit your lifestyle the best.
Birth control has many benefits.
Some birth control methods release hormones (chemicals) into your body that have other good side effects. Birth control can lessen symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), cut down on painful cramps, fight acne, and even lower your risk for certain kinds of cancer, like uterine or ovarian.
There can be side effects from birth control.
Common symptoms include nausea (upset stomach), sore or swollen breasts, irregular periods or bleeding from the vagina, mood changes or headache. Scientific studies have found that most methods of birth control do not cause weight gain. Some women do gain a small amount when they use the shot. Every person reacts differently to medicine, so talk to a medical professional before starting any form of birth control.
Birth control can be affordable.
The cost of birth control varies based on type, whether you have insurance or the type of clinic you visit. A medical provider can help you find birth control that fits your budget.
Still have questions or concerns? Talk to a medical expert at BC4Teens.
Schedule an Appointment
A parent or guardian is required to attend your first visit if you are under the age of 18; however, the sensitive questions and topics we will be discussing will all be done in a confidential and private setting. And remember, we help young people up to age 25.
During an appointment with BC4Teens, our staff and medical providers will:
- Address all questions and concerns
- Provide education on a full range of birth control options and work with you to pick one that fits your needs
- Provide same day birth control, including low maintenance birth control such as the implant or IUD
Schedule an Appointment
