Other Birth Control Method Questions And Concerns / Question
Published: July 3, 2000
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I am 15 and still periodless. My boyfriend and I are ready to have sex and were wondering what could be used as proper protection, and would the morning after pill be any good?
Signed: Ready For Sex And Proper Protection
Dear Ready For Sex And Proper Protection,
Your question deals with a number of important issues.
First off, it sounds as if you are giving some thought to having sex before you actually do it, good! TeenHealthFX is a little concerned though that your body may not be mature enough yet even though you might think your mind and heart are certain that you are ready for sex. There could be a number of reasons why you have not gotten your period. Your body might not have finished puberty yet, or there could be other more complicated reasons. Just because you have not gotten your period yet does not mean that you are protected from getting pregnant. You should see a gynecologist before you engage in sex to make sure that it is okay first and to ask about birth control methods such as the pill and condoms.
You asked about proper protection. The morning after pill should not be used as a method of birth control. If you are going to be sexually active, it is important to be protected from STD's as well. Using birth control pills is an excellent method to prevent pregnancy, but a condom should be used as well to prevent the transmission of STD's such as HIV, and Hepatitis B. Regardless of using these methods of protection, there is always the risk of herpes transmission and chlamydia, which condoms cannot completely prevent. This is why it is important to know your own health and your partners before hand.
Sex can be a scary issue and you are probably wondering What Sex Will Be Like The First Time? Make sure that you know, without a doubt that this is the right decision. Your mind and heart will tell you if it is right. Please make sure that you see your doctor your local Planned Parenthood before continuing in your sexual relationship. If you live in Northern New Jersey you can contact the Adolescent Young Adult Center for Health at (973) 971.5199.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Most smokers begin smoking as teens, and the average age of initiation is 12.5 years of age.
