As young adults explore their sexuality, it is important that they also understand the importance of contraception.

Although abstinence is still the best way to prevent pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases, it is not always the reality for everyone.

1. Lowering Teen Pregnancy Rates

In many countries, teen pregnancy rates are still high despite the availability of contraception. In the United States, for instance, around 750,000 teens get pregnant every year.

This can have lifelong implications for the individuals and their families.

But with knowledge about contraception—and access to it—young adults can have better control over their future.

With effective birth control methods, they can prevent unwanted pregnancies and the many struggles that often come with them: forced parenthood, lower economic opportunities, a decreased sense of autonomy, and more.

2. Reducing the Risk of Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Another reason for young adults to learn about contraception is to protect themselves from sexually transmitted diseases.

These diseases can drastically affect both physical and emotional health, ranging from uncomfortable symptoms to lifelong complications. Even curable STDs like chlamydia and gonorrhea can lead to infertility if left untreated.

Any sexually active person is at risk of contracting an STD from an infected partner, regardless of their age, gender, or relationship status. Therefore, it is essential that young adults take protection seriously.

3. Empowering Young Adults to Make Informed Decisions

Finally, learning about contraception empowers young adults to make informed decisions about their sexual health. It allows them to take control of their own bodies and take steps to ensure their future health and happiness.

Moreover, a comprehensive sex education can help break down stigmas around sex and encourage healthy relationships with oneself and others.

When young people are taught about contraception, they become less vulnerable to the dangers of early pregnancy and STDs.

They can also learn how to talk to partners about sexual health, negotiate consent in sexual encounters, and recognize and avoid unhealthy situations. These skills go beyond preventing pregnancy; they strengthen the foundation for respectful and fulfilling relationships throughout their lives.

Types of Contraception

There are many types of contraception that young adults can consider, from traditional to modern methods. Here are some of the most common methods:.

1. Hormonal Methods

Hormonal methods use hormones to control ovulation, the process of releasing an egg from the ovaries. They come in several forms, including:.

Oral contraceptive pills: taken daily to prevent pregnancy
Contraceptive patch: placed on the skin once a week
Contraceptive vaginal ring: inserted once a month
Depo-provera injection: given every three months

The effectiveness of these methods can range from 91% to 99%. However, they do not protect against STDs, so it is important to use condoms as well.

2. Barrier Methods

Barrier methods work by physically blocking the sperm from reaching the egg. Some of the most common barrier methods include:.

Condoms: both male and female condoms are available
Cervical caps and diaphragms: inserted into the cervix before sex
Spermicide gels, foams, and creams: applied to the vagina before sex

These methods can provide 85% to 95% protection against unwanted pregnancy. Condoms also offer some protection against STDs.

3. Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)

IUDs are small, T-shaped devices inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider. They can remain in place for several years and can prevent pregnancy by either releasing hormones or by creating a physical barrier to sperm.

They are over 99% effective and do not require daily maintenance. However, they can cause some side effects like cramping and irregular periods.

4. Fertility Awareness-Based Methods (FAMs)

FAMs involve tracking menstrual cycles to identify when ovulation occurs and avoiding sex during that time. These methods can be highly effective with proper use but do require careful tracking and discipline. Common FAMs include:.

Basal body temperature method
Cervical mucus method
CycleBeads: a color-coded string of beads to help track the menstrual cycle

However, these methods are less effective than other forms of contraception, with a failure rate of up to 25% with typical use.

The Importance of Access to Contraception

While learning about contraception is important, its effectiveness relies heavily on access to affordable and equitable services. Many countries have long-standing issues with the cost and availability of contraception and sex education.

Young adults who cannot afford or access contraception are at a disadvantage when it comes to making informed choices about their bodies and lives.

Moreover, the issue of access to contraception disproportionately affects marginalized communities like women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals.

It is essential that policies prioritize access to these services and dismantle the barriers that perpetuate systemic inequalities.

Conclusion

Contraception is an essential part of sexual health for young adults.

By protecting against unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases and empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their bodies, comprehensive sex education can lead to healthier and happier lives. It can also contribute to a more equitable future by dismantling the barriers that prevent access to these essential services.