Other Birth Control Method Questions And Concerns / Question
Published: May 10, 2000
Dear TeenHealthFX,
My boyfriend and I have recently become sexually active and I am currently on the birth control pill. I was wondering if it is still necessary to use condoms if I am on the pill. Will that prevent pregnancy anymore or not?
Signed: Why Both Condoms & The Pill
Dear Why Both Condoms & The Pill,
Good for you - TeenHealthFX is glad you are taking responsibility for your sexual health and asking such an important question.
Yes, experts recommend that you stay on the pill and use condoms when having sexual intercourse. The pill if taken correctly is an excellent method of birth control, but using condoms in addition offers you some added security against both pregnancy and STDs. The pill alone offers absolutely no protection against STDs. It is important to protect yourself from STDs by using condoms.
Other than not having sex at all, condoms are the only method that offers some protection against STDs. Nobody wants to believe that his or her partner could have an STD, but it is possible. The thing about STDs is that anyone that is or has been sexually active can have one (or more) and show no symptoms at all. So, the answer is, YES -continue to use condoms and the pill!
From your question, TeenHealthFX is able to tell that you have taken the precautions to go see a doctor and go on the pill. It is great that you are taking responsibility for your health by protecting yourself. Also, seeing a doctor helps you learn to communicate your needs now so you will be very good at it, as you grow older. Now, keep up the good work and practice safer sex.
For those of you reading this who are thinking about sex: Sex can be a powerful and meaningful activity, but it also needs to be well planned and discussed between you and your partner. Part of that discussion should include if you are both ready for sex, going to a doctor or teen health center, past sex partners, birth control and STD protection. Both males and females should go to a teen health center before having sex. They can check you and your partner put and make sure everything is okay medically and help you discuss safer sex and birth control methods. In New Jersey, please call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at (973) 971.5199. Outside of New Jersey, please call your local Planned Parenthood.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Statistics show that giving a teen a credit card does not teach them to be financially responsible or to encourage self-restraint, but actually promotes a “spend now and deal with the consequences later” mindset.
