Contraception

There are almost 20 different methods of contraception. Some are not frequently used (e.g. contraceptive sponges) and some are not used by young people (e.g. sterilization). Only the most frequently used are mentioned here.

First Things First!

Before deciding which contraceptive method to choose, young people should ask whether sexual intercourse is an appropriate choice at this time in their lives.

Remember that abstinence is the only lifestyle choice that is 100% effective against both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.

Though contraception is an important aspect of starting sex, it is not the only area worth thinking through carefully. The most frequently used methods of contraception do nothing to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infection and some may actually increase the risk.

Research also indicates that the majority of girls who start having intercourse in their early to mid-teens regret it afterwards. Boys have less regret but often also become very cynical and more interested in conquest than love.

First intercourse is a very important milestone in life and your pattern of sexual behaviour afterwards will be very different from what it would be if you save sex for a committed, long-term sexual relationship as an adult.

In the ideal situation, you will trust your partner and know their previous sexual experience. You will be in a relationship that is committed enough to provide the security that can support you in the psychological as well as the physical consequences of having sex.

'Teenage Sex' >>
(An editorial from the 'British Medical Journal')

Moral and Ethical Issues

It is also important to remember that some individuals and religious groups have moral and ethical issues with some or all methods of contraception, depending on its possible modes of action (the way in which it works). It is important that both users and providers of contraception understand the reasons for this and consider these in making or advising on contraceptive choices. For more info on moral and ethical issues, check out >>

Moral and Ethical Issues >>

Christians and Contraception >>

Contraceptives' Mode of Action >>

When do Contraceptives Work >>

Failure Rates

These are presented to give an indication of the comparative effectiveness of different methods. Those quoted are for the number of pregnancies per 100 couples using that form of contraception over a 12 month period. For example, a failure rate of 10% means that 10 couples in every 100 will get pregnant using that form of contraception over a 12 month period if they are having regular sexual intercourse.

The lower end of the range of failure rates given are usually from studies on experienced adult users in long-term sexual relationships. The rate will be higher in inexperienced use by teenagers.

2 Couples, 2 Scenarios

Check out the 'The 2 Couples, 2 Scenarios' case study, which looks at the outcomes of choices made by 2 couples with regard to sex, contraception and their future plans >>

Abstinence
more info >>
2 couples >>

Condoms

Contraceptive Pill

Diaphragms

Emergency Pill

Injections

Implants

Natural Methods

Patches

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