You certainly agree that living life as a teenager is not as easy as turning the palm of the hand. In particular, there are many changes and processes of self-discovery that must be passed before you can become a mature and whole human being. So, is it possible for a teenager to be given the responsibility to raise children during these times? Of course it is possible, but very difficult. That is why, teenage pregnancy should be avoided by understanding the concept of a healthy sexual relationship, seeking as much knowledge as possible, and building a good support system. If you are an adult reading this article, there is nothing wrong with applying the various tips in this article to help prevent pregnancy in children who are still teenagers.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Using Contraceptives
Step 1. Wear condoms as an inexpensive and reliable contraceptive
Condoms are one of the easiest contraceptives to use! In general, you just need to remove the condom from the plastic wrap, then apply it to the erect penis. Make sure the protruding edge of the condom is outside so that the condom can be rolled up more easily. Although the shelf life is quite long, condoms also have an expiration date. Therefore, don't forget to check the expiration date of the condom before using it!
- Condoms can be purchased at most pharmacies. Overseas, some health facilities even provide it for free!
- You and your partner should feel comfortable when wearing a condom.
- Try wearing a condom specifically for women. To wear it, you just need to insert the condom into your vagina or follow the specific instructions on the back of the package. This type of condom is also often used to prevent pregnancy, you know!
- The good news is that both male and female condoms can protect you from sexually transmitted diseases.
Step 2. Take the contraceptive pill
Oral contraceptives are also known as the “pill”. Some product service providers require you to buy pills with a doctor's prescription, but some don't. The hormone content in the pill can prevent ovulation, which automatically makes your body not produce eggs to be fertilized by sperm cells. Contraceptive pills are 91% effective at preventing pregnancy, but they are not able to protect you from sexually transmitted diseases.
- Consult the doctor for possible side effects, such as weight gain or bleeding outside of menstruation. Some people also claim to experience drastic mood swings and depression.
- The contraceptive pill has the highest effectiveness if it is taken at the same time every day. So don't forget to set an alarm on your phone to remind you it's time to take your pills!
- The selling price of contraceptive pills really depends on the policy of the product provider and your insurance ceiling.
Step 3. Choose an IUD if you want a contraceptive that has a longer effect
The IUD is a very small device that is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. With a 99% success rate, the IUD is one of the most effective methods of contraception! Remember, insertion of the IUD must be done by a healthcare professional and, although it can be removed at any time, the IUD can remain in the uterus with the same level of effectiveness for a maximum of 12 years.
- Currently, there are two types of IUDs that you can choose from, namely the copper and hormonal IUDs. Consult the option that best suits your condition with your doctor.
- One of the advantages of the copper IUD is that it doubles as an emergency contraception device. Even though it is only inserted within one to five days after sexual intercourse, the copper IUD is still able to prevent pregnancy.
- Side effects that may appear are cramps and irregular menstruation. However, generally such side effects will subside on their own after three to six months.
- The cost of inserting an IUD at a clinic or hospital is highly dependent on your service provider and your insurance ceiling.
Step 4. Use implants to relieve yourself of excessive worry
In fact, there are several types of hormonal contraceptives that you can consider, and one of them is the installation of an implant in the upper arm area which must be done with the help of a health professional. Generally, implants are shaped like small hooks that can protect you from pregnancy for a maximum of four years.
- The effectiveness of the implant to prevent pregnancy reaches 99%, even though the device is not able to protect you from sexually transmitted diseases.
- Implants have a very high effectiveness because they cannot be removed arbitrarily from your body. Besides that, you don't have to bother remembering when to use it or worrying about the wrong way of installing it, right?
- The cost of implants varies greatly in each hospital. Consult these options with your doctor to find out the exact price!
Step 5. Use a contraceptive device in the form of a plaster to facilitate the process of controlling pregnancy
Consult the possibility of using a transdermal patch capable of delivering drugs into the body through the patch. You can put the plaster on your upper arms, stomach, back, or even your buttocks, and it should be changed every week. Every three weeks, stop using the plaster for one full week, then put on a new patch the following week.
- The effectiveness of the contraceptive plaster reaches 91% even though the device does not have the ability to protect you from sexually transmitted diseases.
- Contraceptive plasters are sold at varying prices at various pharmacies and online stores, and generally must be purchased with a doctor's prescription.
Step 6. Use injectable contraceptives if you don't want to bother every day
Lazy to remember when to take pills or change contraceptive plasters? Try applying this method! Generally, every three months, the doctor will give an injection aimed at preventing ovulation and of course, the pregnancy that may accompany it.
- Injectable contraceptives have an effectiveness of about 94%, but are not able to protect you from sexually transmitted diseases.
- The cost you need to spend to use injectable contraceptives varies widely in various hospitals.
Step 7. Get to know the emergency contraceptive pill, widely known as the Plan B pill
One way to prevent pregnancy is to take the emergency contraceptive pill or Plan B. However, the pill is intended to be taken only after unprotected sexual intercourse. If you are over the age of 18, you should be able to buy emergency contraception pills independently at most pharmacies. However, generally you still have to show a valid personal identity such as an ID card or driver's license.
- Remember, the emergency contraceptive pill should not be used as a daily contraceptive. In other words, you still have to have other contraceptives for daily use.
- In Indonesia, you can find emergency contraceptive pills at various pharmacies and online stores with varying prices.
Step 8. Consider a celibate lifestyle as the most effective method of contraception
You certainly know that the best way to prevent pregnancy is to abstain from sex. Celibacy means not having sex. Some people with this lifestyle do not even have oral sex even though pregnancy will not occur because of it. Abstaining from sexual intercourse in any form is also effective in protecting you from sexually transmitted diseases.
Method 2 of 3: Finding As Much Information As Possible
Step 1. See a doctor
In addition to using contraceptives, pregnancy can also be avoided if you want to equip yourself with as much knowledge as possible about safe sex. The right information, of course, can be obtained from medical experts such as doctors. Want to start being sexually active? Ask your doctor for recommendations on the most suitable contraceptive method.
- Ask questions such as, "What do doctors think is the most effective method of preventing pregnancy?" and “How to avoid sexually transmitted diseases?”
- Communicate your entire sexual history honestly with your doctor. Trust me, they won't judge you!
- Or, you can also visit a gynecologist for a more specific consultation.
Step 2. Understand the myths about sexuality
Today, there are quite a number of myths about sex circulating in society and some of them, you may have heard of. To avoid misleading information, enrich yourself with knowledge of right and wrong information. If you hear a myth, don't hesitate to ask your doctor for the truth.
Some popular myths are that pregnancy will not occur if sexual intercourse is performed while the woman is menstruating, or that pregnancy cannot occur during first sexual intercourse. Both are misleading
Step 3. Read trusted information
Make sure all information you receive comes from a trusted organization such as Planned Parenthood or a similar health organization. To identify the validity of a source, observe whether the information is quoted from a trusted party (such as a doctor or medical journal), and written by a medical professional, such as a doctor or nurse.
- Visit the nearest school library or public library. Supposedly, the librarian on duty can help find appropriate and relevant sources of reading about safe sexual relations.
- If you want, you can also read various books on the topic of sexuality. Unfortunately, because the topic is still taboo in Indonesia, there are not many books from local publishers that you can access. That's why, you can try reading imported books like "Safe Sex 101: An Overview for Teens" by Margaret O'Hyde or "Sex: A Book for Teens: An Uncensored Guide to Your Body, Sex, and Safety" by Nikol. Hasler.
Step 4. Communicate with your partner
If you are, or want to try, sexually active, don't forget to establish healthy communication patterns with your partner. In particular, discuss the type of contraception that should be used and the concrete actions to be taken if pregnancy occurs. Most importantly, communicate things honestly and openly with each other, and don't be afraid to voice any concerns you have.
- You might say, “We've talked about sex a lot. What do you think you would do if I suddenly got pregnant?"
- Remember, your body is your authority. That means don't let anyone force you to have sex!
Method 3 of 3: Helping Children Avoid Pregnancy
Step 1. Evaluate your personal principles regarding sexuality
Don't avoid the subject because it's taboo! Before inviting your child into a discussion, take the time to understand your personal view on the issue. For example, how would you feel if you found out that your teenage child was having sex with his or her partner? If you feel uncomfortable with the possibility, think of appropriate ways to encourage your child to be celibate. Also think about your views on the use of contraceptives for teenagers.
Step 2. Encourage your child to communicate honestly and openly
Make sure your child knows that he or she has the freedom to talk to you about topics related to sexuality. In fact, you can also initiate conversations with children, you know! For example, you could open the topic by saying, “Since you are going to college soon, I would like to invite you to discuss healthy sex. Are you busy right now? Most importantly, your child should know that he can always count on you if he needs help and support.
Step 3. Answer all the child's questions honestly
In order for the communication process between the two of you to run smoothly, prioritize honesty! Does that mean you have to tell your child your entire personal sexual history? Of course not. Being honest means that you have to be prepared to answer questions like, “Did you only have sex after marriage?” honestly. Armed with honesty, children will surely receive useful and helpful information to make wiser choices in their lives.
Chances are, the child will also ask, "What should I do if I am forced to have sex?" or "Can I get pregnant through oral sex?"
Step 4. Prioritize sex education for children
Most likely, your child will not feel comfortable discussing sex-related topics with you. This situation is completely normal! Most importantly, try to encourage him to get as much information as possible about safe sex. If his school provides special classes on the topic, encourage him to join. If not, try checking the availability of similar classes at your local community or hospital.
Apart from children, this information is actually needed by you as a parent, especially because you will not be able to answer questions if you do not have the right knowledge. So don't be afraid to check out sexually explicit websites like Planned Parenthood, or ask your doctor for up-to-date and accurate readings. Also visit the local library to gather more information
Step 5. Monitor your child's romantic relationship
Find out who the people who drop into your child's love life. If your child is dating someone, ask him to introduce the person to you. You can also ask questions like, “Your relationship with Katie seems to be getting serious, doesn't it. Have you guys talked about sex? If you have concerns, don't be afraid to voice them.
- Try not to sound judgmental. Don't embarrass your child to tell you. For example, don't say, "Oh, just love monkeys, that's all. You're still young!"
- Voice concern, not judgment. Try saying, “I'm worried that Tom seems too controlling you. What do you think?" instead of "I don't like Tom."
Tips
- Don't be afraid to talk about topics related to sexuality.
- Take the time to consider the type of birth control that will work best for you.
- Don't hesitate to ask questions if there's something you don't understand.
