Discussing teen sexual health can be uncomfortable for many adults, but the truth is that a significant number of teenagers in the U.S. engage in sexual activity by age 19. To address this reality, it is essential that we equip young people with the knowledge and resources they need to avoid unintended pregnancies. Providing easier access to different contraceptive methods does not increase sexual activity; rather, it leads to a reduction in unplanned pregnancies. Parents should view conversations about contraception as an opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions about sexual health.
As a pediatrician focused on adolescent care, I recognize the adverse effects that restricted access to contraception can have on young individuals. Many teens, whether they are preparing for or are already in romantic relationships, often lack access to healthcare providers who are comfortable discussing sexual health. Additionally, fear of talking to their parents about these topics can put their reproductive health at risk.
In my research, I continuously seek effective methods to broaden access to contraception for all youth who may feel unprepared for a pregnancy. One promising solution is offering over-the-counter (OTC) access to oral contraceptives, which would remove several barriers that currently exist. This option should be available to individuals of all ages who wish to use them.
When parents and healthcare providers overlook the opportunity to prepare teens, challenging situations can arise. I still remember one of my first cases involving an unplanned pregnancy in a teenage patient. She came to the clinic with her mother to start birth control. Unfortunately, when I conducted a pregnancy test before administering her desired contraceptive injection, the result was positive. Her emotional response as she processed this news was heart-wrenching, impacting her school life and athletic aspirations. Sadly, I have encountered many similar situations over the past decade. These experiences fuel my commitment to work with parents and healthcare professionals to ensure young people have timely access to contraception.
Over the last ten years, advancements in contraceptive research and innovation have made birth control safer than ever before. Although some risks exist, they are uncommon and even less likely to affect women under 35. Data shows that the use of contraceptive methods significantly lowers the incidence of unintended pregnancies. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2015, there were 229,715 births to women aged 15–19, marking a birth rate of 22.3 per 1,000—an all-time low and an 8% decrease from 2014. An analysis revealed that the decrease in teenage pregnancy from 2007 to 2012 was largely due to increased contraceptive use.
Currently, the most commonly used form of birth control among teenagers is condoms, which are already available OTC. Therefore, adding another safe, OTC contraceptive option is a logical step. When evaluating safety, the risks associated with birth control pills are minimal when juxtaposed with the risks of pregnancy and childbirth.
In my view, the primary hurdle to increased contraceptive use is unnecessary access barriers. Transitioning birth control pills to OTC status would dismantle many of the obstacles that hinder individuals from obtaining them. Modern birth control pills meet all FDA criteria for OTC availability—they are safe for self-administration and effective when used correctly, addressing self-diagnosable concerns, and can feature easy-to-understand labels.
While I appreciate the importance of clinical consultations with patients, I also understand that many individuals encounter challenges in accessing healthcare services regularly or at the times they need them most. A national survey revealed that about a third of women wanting to use birth control pills have faced obstacles, such as high costs of office visits and inconvenient clinic hours. Those at the most risk, including teens, non-English speakers, and uninsured women, face heightened barriers. Thus, providing access to contraceptive methods in non-clinical settings can be incredibly beneficial.
It’s time for adults to stop pretending that young people don’t require contraceptive options. Adolescence is a tumultuous period, filled with rapid changes both internally and in their environment. An unintended pregnancy can be overwhelming, especially for someone still discovering their identity and place in the world. By removing unnecessary barriers to contraception, we can make life a little easier for both young people and their parents.
For further insights on this topic, you can explore more at Intracervical Insemination and check out Make a Mom for essential resources. Additionally, WomensHealth.gov is an excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination information.
Summary
Enhancing access to over-the-counter contraceptives for teens is a crucial step in preventing unintended pregnancies. By providing young people with the resources they need, we can foster healthier conversations about sexual health and reduce barriers that currently exist in obtaining contraceptive methods.