Let's start with the 100% effective plan which is abstinence. This is the truest way of not getting pregnant or contracting a virus however, I know many people will not take this option. In our teens we have hormones running wild. That along with peer-pressure makes abstinence a difficult plan however, try to make sure you are really ready before taking any action.
Now we will assume you are or will be becoming sexually active whether you are a teenager or an adult. Remember that this is an adult action and with it should come adult responsibilities. So why don't we talk about your options to prevent pregnancy.
Condoms - Condoms are available at most stores, our website and in your local clinic/Planned Parenthood. They are the only method to prevent the spread of STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases). For that sheer fact I recommend that you use a condom no matter what other birth control methods you use. I also think it is imperative to have another method in place as well because if the condom happens to break you risk pregnancy. You should also seek direction on how to properly use a condom to reduce the risk of a mishap. Female condoms are also a form of this method.
The Pill - There are many different options when it comes to the pill. Some can clear up acne or regulate periods. Some reduce or stop your period entirely. This method could be effective if you are able to be consistent. If you can't remember to take your vitamins daily then this probably isn't the best plan for you. You must take it everyday and it is recommended that you take it at the same time each day as well.
Depo-Provera - This method is in the form of a shot administered in your doctors office or clinic every three months. The plus to this is it is easy to maintain and does not require you to do anything in between the shots. The down side is that not many people enjoy shots and this is not licked on by kittens (real needle required). The other issue that some women have with this form of birth control is that they gain weight.
Implanon - This is a match stick sized rod that is inserted in the upper inner part of your arm. I used this method at one point (when they inserted five, not one) and I was able to get it inserted on a lunch break and it lasted for several years. Some women gain weight or have a lot of pain where the rod is inserted. I had a large bruise for a few days but nothing major. I will say when it was time for it to be removed it was more uncomfortable because your tissue grows over it.
The Patch - The patch is like a band-aide that you place above your buttocks or on your pelvic bone. They last for a week and then it needs to be replaced. A girlfriend of mine uses and loves this method. It is fairly easy to maintain but could come off so you will need to ensure it is placed well.
The Sponge - To use the sponge you add water, squeeze it and insert into the vagina. It is good for a full twenty four hours, has spermicide to prevent pregnancy, no hormones and no prescription. If you are not comfortable with touching your parts this method may not be right for you though I think it is important for you know your body. In addition it could cause irritation or dryness to your vaginal area.
NuvaRing - This product is similar to the sponge with it needing to be inserted in your vagina. Like the patch this method lasts for a week per ring and then needs to be replaced. My experience with this product caused me irritation but may be right for you.
Cervical Cap - This product must be used with a spermicide and is also inserted to cover your cervix like the sponge. It must stay inside for six hours after sex and needs to stay in place but you risk pushing it out of place with heavy thrusts or larger male genitalia. Once removed you need to clean and dry cervical cap for later use.
The Diaphragm - This method is virtually the same as the cervical cap with insertion, requiring spermicide, staying in place for six hours, risk of it moving and how to care for it after sex. However, this method can be used during menstruation as the cervical cap cannot.
IUD - This is a t-shaped devise that is inserted into the uterus. This is a great method if you decide to have children in the course of it's use as it can be removed at any time. It is inserted in a visit to your doctor and then the only maintenance you have is to check the string at the bottom of the t every so often. Some women love this device but it was painful and caused heavier bleeding for me. Also sometimes men feel the string and the only way to describe the string is it feels like fishing string.
Permanent Sterilization - This option is generally only available if you are older, have had children or you have decided not to have kids. It is done by minor surgery and has no maintenance but does have recovery.
The Morning After Pill - This is an emergency contraceptive that should only be used if your birth control fails. It can be purchased over the counter and will not abort a fetus.
The worst for last, The Pull Out Method - This is often the chosen form of birth control as well as the most failed form. It is where the male removes his penis prior to his release. It is very difficult to determine that stage for most men and if he releases prematurely it has failed. NOT RECOMMENDED!
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