As our children enter their teenage years, we often face new challenges and concerns. One of these is navigating through the complex world of teen sexual health.
With increased access to information through technology and media, teenagers today are exposed to a lot more than previous generations. This can be overwhelming for both parents and teens as they try to navigate this territory together.
In this post, we will specifically dive into the topic of contraceptive implants for teenagers – what they are, how they work, and their benefits to guide parents on their children’s health.
What Are Contraceptive Implants?
Contraceptive implants are a type of long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) that prevents pregnancy by releasing a hormone into the body.
A healthcare provider inserts the implant under the skin of the upper arm using a local anaesthetic to numb the area. The procedure takes less than a minute. It will then release a steady dose of progestin and thicken the cervical mucus to make it difficult for sperm to reach the fertilised egg.
Is Contraceptive Implant Right for Your Teen?
Teenage pregnancy’s rising prevalence worldwide is becoming a major concern for many parents, and it underscores the need for effective contraceptive solutions. With increasing pressure on young individuals and the resulting consequences of unintended pregnancies, many parents are exploring various birth control methods for their teens. Among these options, contraceptive implants stand out as a reliable and long-term solution to prevent unintended pregnancies.
Contraceptive implants are small, flexible rods inserted under the upper arm’s skin, releasing hormones that prevent ovulation. This method offers up to three years of continuous pregnancy prevention, making it a suitable choice for teenagers who may struggle with remembering daily pills or other forms of contraception.
Regarding the comfort and acceptability of the procedure, many parents and teens are concerned about the potential pain involved in the insertion and removal of the implant. The procedure is straightforward and is typically performed under local anaesthesia, minimising discomfort. It usually results in only a brief period of soreness or bruising.
What Are the Benefits of Contraceptive Implants for Teens?
Long-Lasting Protection
Contraceptive implants provide highly effective, long-term pregnancy prevention for up to 5 years. This “set-it-and-forget-it” approach is convenient and eliminates the need for daily or monthly birth control routines.
99% Effective
Contraceptive implants are one of the most effective birth control methods available, with a failure rate of less than 1% with typical use. This makes them more effective than birth control pills, patches, or rings.
Convenient
Contraceptive implants do not require any daily, weekly, or monthly action to maintain protection against pregnancy. Once the implant is inserted, it works continuously for up to 5 years with no further effort required from the user.
Discreet
The contraceptive implant is a small, thin (the size of a matchstick) rod inserted under the upper arm’s skin, making it virtually invisible to others. This allows for private, discreet birth control that is not noticeable to partners or peers.
Reduced Menstrual Symptoms
Many users of the contraceptive implant experience lighter, less painful periods or even a complete cessation of menstruation. This can be beneficial for teenagers who may struggle with heavy cramping periods.
Supporting Your Teen through the Decision to Use Contraceptive Implants
Open communication plays an important role in this process. It’s important to listen to their concerns and provide factual information to dispel any myths or apprehensions they may have.
Helping your teen consult a healthcare provider is another essential step. A healthcare professional can provide detailed insights into the risks and benefits associated with contraceptive implants. They can address specific medical questions and help your teen make a well-informed decision that best suits their needs. This consultation also ensures that your teen understands how the implant works, its effectiveness, and potential side effects.
Providing ongoing emotional support throughout the entire process is crucial. Reassure your teen that you are there for them and respect their choices regarding their reproductive health. This support can bolster their confidence and ensure they feel secure in their decision.
How Should They Care for Their Contraceptive Implants?
Caring for a contraceptive implant is crucial to ensure its effectiveness and avoid complications. Here are some practical tips for teens on how to care for their implants:
- Keep the Insertion Site Clean and Dry: After the implant is inserted, keep the site clean and dry to prevent infection. Avoid submerging it in water for at least 24 hours.
- Monitor for Infection: Watch out for signs of infection, like redness, swelling, heat, or discharge at the insertion site. Report to your healthcare provider if any of these symptoms occur.
- Avoid Physical Impact: Be cautious to avoid any physical impact or heavy lifting that could move the implant. This is particularly important in the first few days following insertion.
- Check the Implant Regularly: Regularly check the area to ensure the implant is still in place and hasn’t shifted. Seek medical advice if it’s not palpable or seems to have moved.
- Follow Up with Healthcare Providers: Schedule follow-up appointments as your healthcare provider recommends to ensure the implant is functioning properly and hasn’t caused any complications.
- Report Any Side Effects: Be aware of side effects like irregular bleeding or hormonal changes. If you experience severe side effects or ones that bother you, speak to a healthcare professional.
Concluding Thoughts
Contraceptive implants offer a highly effective, long-term solution for preventing unintended pregnancies among teens while also providing additional benefits such as reduced menstrual symptoms. Parents and teens need to foster open communication, seek advice from healthcare professionals, and provide ongoing support throughout the decision-making process.
If you are considering contraceptive implants as an option for your teen, consult a healthcare provider to discuss whether this method is suitable for your needs.
