- Birth control can be any number of devices used to prevent pregnancy. Also known as contraception, it can be used in the form of a male or female condom, an intrauterine device--which is placed inside the uterus and taken out after a length of time, surgical sterilization of either the male or the female, or birth control pills. Birth control pills are available containing both oestrogens and progestins and as a progestin-only supplement, called the "mini-pill." Although no birth control device or method is 100-percent foolproof except for abstinence, birth control is a very reliable way to prevent pregnancy.
- In elementary and middle schools across the country, birth control pills and condoms are being made available in the nurse's office and during sexual education courses. Although the general population of young women in school may not currently be menstruating, the offer is available to them in order to practice safe sex. Although it is rare for a child to become pregnant who is not menstruating, it is possible that eggs are being released that can be fertilized. If a young woman who is not menstruating takes birth control pills, she should still menstruate normally and on time as long as she is taking the placebo pills provided at the end of each month to allow her uterine lining to release. She should not experience any side effects from the birth control, and, if anything, it should make her menstruate more regularly when her menstruation begins. Taking birth control before menstruating will not make a young woman menstruate earlier or later. If she is sexually active but not currently menstruating, it is important that the young woman use at least one form of birth control.
- A young woman should have a gynecological exam if she is sexually active and before being prescribed birth control pills. If your child is over the age of 14 and has not menstruated, take her to a gynecologist or family practitioner as soon as possible. Young women, even if they are not menstruating, may experience weight gain from taking birth control pills. A young woman may experience cramping regardless of whether she is taking birth control and whether she has started menstruating.
