Teen pregnancy rates may be falling, but members of the American Academy of Pediatrics are still on it—updating their stance on the most effective forms of birth control for sexually active teens. They have stated that for adolescents, implantable rods and intrauterine devices (IUDs) are the way to go.
IUDs and hormonal implants, which are covered under the Affordable Care Act with no cost share if prescribed (and some other stipulations), has long been regarded as one of the more effective options for birth control. The AAP has deemed oral contraceptives as one of the least effective forms along with condoms because remembering to taking pills and throw on (or in) a condom consistently is tough to do. But they do recommend always using a condom to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. And they do recommend abstinence as an option, via AP:
The policy emphasizes that abstinence is 100 percent effective at preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases and says pediatricians should encourage teens to delay sexual activity "until they are ready." But since many teens don't heed that advice, the policy also says pediatricians need to provide birth control guidance.
Yep. Teens do have sex. Of course, any birth control options are probably more ideal than an unwanted pregnancy. And IUDs, while expensive upfront without insurance, are the cheapest long-term birth control, and can work like a charm anywhere between three and ten years after being inserted. Not a bad gig.
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