Today is Thanks, Birth Control Day, a chance to remember all of the reasons we are glad to have birth control options! We asked our TeenSource Youth Advisory Board members why they are saying a big THANK YOU to birth control!
Here’s what they had to say:
“Thank you for giving individuals the choice to plan their future!”
- Ally, age 16, Stockton
People use birth control for many reasons but a common reason is to prevent pregnancy which allows a person to plan their families and their futures. Some birth control methods, like the IUD, can last for many years, while other methods, like condoms, need to be used every time someone has sex. No matter which method you choose, you can use it as long as it is effective, or you can stop using it if it you want to try another method, if you want to have a child, or for any other reason! Having the ability to decide when and how long to use birth control, helps us achieve our current and long-term goals.
“Thank you birth control for helping my period be shorter and less painful.”
-- Jessica, age 16, Hayward
Some people use birth control for health reasons like reducing period symptoms or to help with acne and frequent breakouts. Some people use birth control for more than one reason. Some methods, like the hormonal IUD or implant, may give people shorter, lighter periods or no periods at all. Other methods, like the pill, patch or ring, may give you a shorter, lighter period and may even allow you to skip your period sometimes. These side effects may be a positive for some and a negative for others. If you are interested in a method that may lead to shorter periods or no periods, ask your doctor or find a clinic near you!
“Thank you for giving women options!”
- Jonathan, age 17, Long Beach
When it comes to birth control, there are so many choices! Someone can try a few methods until they find the one that is right for them. Most methods are for someone with a uterus, but some methods, like condoms, can be used by someone with a penis. Learn about all of the methods available!
Want to share your own reasons to say thank you to birth control? You can personalize a graphic and share your reasons on social media! Check out our Instagram (@teensourceorg) to see why other teens are saying “thx birth control!”
Learn more about what birth control options are available and find the one that is right for you. If you are interested in starting birth control, you can find a clinic near you!
Also, don’t forget to join us on Instagram (@teensourceorg) for a birth control AMA session! Today from 3:30-4:30 birth control expert Jessica will be answering your questions! Her answers will stay on our stories so check out what she had to say!