Nunn, Cheyanne: Teens and Contraception

            According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, contraceptive implants and intrauterine devices (IUDs) afford the best protection against unintended pregnancy among adolescents. While this may be true, less effective methods of birth control are used by all ages. Despite the knowledge of its protection against pregnancy, methods such as condoms, withdrawal and oral contraceptives are more commonly used because they do not require a visit to the doctor and are of little to no cost. However, this causes unintended pregnancies and more costs than an IUD in the long run.

            Alhough intrauterine devices are reversible and are more effective than the birth control pill and other contraceptives, parents actually prefer their daughters to use the less effective products. Studies show that birth control pills are actually the most preferred among adults with daughters at 59% with condoms, injectable contraceptives, the morning-after pill, birth control patches and implants preferred at lower rates. The IUD came in as last preferred at a low of 18%. Researchers surmised that parents may not accept this method as much as others because it is associated with an ongoing sexual relationship. Also, it may yet be linked to the historical events surroundig the Dalkon shield, an earlier IUD, but neither article went in-depth about that subject.

            Pregnancy rates are at less than 1% with perfect and typical use of IUDs. They have the highest rates of satisfaction and continuation of all contraceptive methods, but are still not found to be acceptable among sexually active females and their parents. Public clinics are referred to as a most reasonable option to explore teenagers and other females’ access to long-acting reversible contraceptives and will give the most fair cost, insurance coverage, and confidentiality. Clinics can also provide information, recommendations, and suggestions regarding reversible contraceptives including misperceptions, counseling, and postpartum and post-abortal use of long-acting reversible contraceptives.