Beel, Kaylee: Teens and Contraception

            Unplanned teen pregnancies are common worldwide. When it comes to deciding on a form of birth control for their children parents of teens as well as teens themselves prefer short term methods of contraceptive vs IUDs or implants. Although long term methods of birth control are known to be better in preventing teen pregnancy, studies show that adults would rather their children take a birth control pill over any other option of contraception. Lauren Hartman, M.D. stated, “the strongest predictor of acceptability of all methods was parental recognition of their teens’ autonomy” (Dawson 1). Adolescents have a higher rate of pregnancy probably due to their lack of knowledge about contraception. When choosing a method of birth control parents tend to associate long-term prevention with a steady sexual relationship and therefore are repelled from using such methods. Barriers causing dismissal of long-term contraception “[include] the lack of familiarity, misperceptions, high cost, lack of access, and healthcare providers' concerns about safety” (Bankhead 1). IUDs and implants have a higher prevention rate of unplanned pregnancy but are the least favored option. Of the 42% of teens engaging in sexual intercourse almost all choose the short term method of birth control. “More than 80% of teen pregnancies are unintended” (Bankhead 1 ), this is due to inconsistent use of oral contraception or condoms. If teens were to use long-term methods of birth control the rate of unplanned pregnancy could be reduced greatly. These long-term methods would give teens a more reliable form of birth control. Members of the ACOG Committee on Adolescent Health Care “suggested referral to a public clinic as a reasonable option to facilitate teenagers' access to long-acting reversible contraceptives” (Bankhead 1). Such a strategy could give teens and their parents more information on cost, insurance coverage, and confidentiality. With more knowledge of long term contraceptives, teens could be more equipped for preventing unplanned pregnancy.

 

Works Citied

Bankhead, Charles. “IUDs, Implants Best Teen Birth Control, ACOG Says.” General OB/GYN (2012). MedPage Today. Web. 2 Oct. 2012.

Dawson, Milly. “Parents Prefer Some, Often Less-Effective, Birth Control Methods for   Teens.” Journal of Adolescent Health (2012). Cfah.org. Web. 2 Oct. 2012.