Children and sexual activity has always been a delicate subject for many people, especially parents.  Various components come into play when deciding when it is the proper time for parents to talk with their children about the birds and the bees or the origin of life. It is a highly personal decision that is made by the parents and their children.

Some parents stick to how they were raised, or to what is customary for their family. Great deals of parents believe that when a child reaches a certain age they are mature enough for the talk. Most parents usually consider the age of the child, the child’s mental state and how mature the child is in relation to age before having the conversation.

Some parents consult their pediatric care physician or seek religious support regarding the subject of sex and teens. What your decide it is important to keep in mind that are vast amounts of information for parents and adolescents make informed, responsible decisions regarding sexual activity and birth control methods.  

Types of Contraception

Contraception is the use of medication or barriers to prohibit pregnancy and there are many effective options available today. Contraceptives are classified in two different types, barrier and hormonal style.

Barrier contraceptives block the contact of sperm and the egg. Familiar styles of barrier contraceptives includes the intrauterine device or IUD, a tiny piece of plastic inserted by a physician into the uterus that can remain in place for five to seven years.  

The male condom is a thin rubber casing that fits snugly over an unsloped penis prior to sexual intercourse. Condoms are the most popular type of prophylactic used by males. The female condom is a flexible plastic sack that is placed into the vaginal vault prior to a sexual encounter.  

Chemicals specifically designed to stamp out sperm are called spermicides, and are the least dependable barrier contraceptive. They are typically used jointly with other contraceptives, like condoms.

Hormonal contraceptives are combination of hormonal medications delivered in the form of a patch, pill, injection or implant. Hormonal contraceptives operate by prohibiting the release of female eggs and thickening of the cervix to stop sperm from reaching the eggs. Popular hormonal contraceptives include birth control pills, synthetic hormones that influence ovulation. The most effective type of hormone contraception is hormonal shots. Hormonal implants are inserted under the skin by a physician and are ninety nine percent efficient.

Vaginal rings are another form of hormone-based contraception. A physician places these devices in the vagina, and they work by letting out hormones periodically to prevent pregnancy from occurring.

Other Important Information About Contraception

With just about any medication you take there are potential side effects with contraception. Familiar side effects associated with contraception include irregular bleeding in between periods, nausea sensation, vomiting, headache, dizziness, breast tenderness, mood changes, and the formation of blood clots.

Most typed of prescription contraceptives may be prescribed by a physician or nurse practitioner.  Usually a physical examination, a pelvic exam and pap smear are performed to ensure a woman is in good health before prescribing.

Contraception may be used mainly to prevent pregnancy but in some cases contraceptives are used to treat certain medical conditions.

Some oral contraceptives are used to improve acne, treat ovarian cysts and endometrial cancer. Some women consider taking birth control pills beneficial because it produces a lighter menstrual cycle.

Abstaining from sexual activity is the only way to prevent pregnancy, but when used correctly, contraception is also very effective.

To learn more about contraception, contact a gynecologist near you.