Sexual intercourse during adolescence is a very fresh and satisfying experience. However, it is important to be well aware of the possible consequences of sexual intercourse and practice safe sex.
Preventing pregnancy is called contraception. There are various methods for this. It is important to know about contraception whether you are sexually active or not.
Below is information about some of the modern birth control methods available in Sri Lanka.
- Condom (rubber sheath)
The rubber sheath used to cover the erect penis is called a condom.
A new condom should be used every time you have sex.
Since the condom acts as a cover, it prevents sperm from entering the vagina.
Condoms provide protection against unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections. (Dual Protection)
To protect against both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, condoms should be used. There are three condoms in a condom packet, and a new condom should be put on correctly during each sexual act.
How to put on a condom correctly is indicated on the condom packet.
2. Contraceptive pills
The pill is a hormonal birth control method that prevents pregnancy. If you always take the pill on time, it is a safe, affordable and effective method.
There are 28 pills in a pack of pills. The first 21 pills (light-colored pills) contain hormones (estrogen and progestin). The remaining 07 pills (brown-colored pills) contain iron.
The oral contraceptive pill, when taken daily, prevents the development and release of eggs and thickens cervical mucus, blocking sperm from reaching the uterus.
3. The depilatory (DMPA) injection
Prevents the development and release of eggs and thickens cervical mucus, blocking sperm from reaching the uterus.
The best time for a woman to get this injection is within the first 7 days of her period. The injection can also be given 6 weeks after giving birth.
This injection should be given every 90 days.
4. Hormonal IUDs
Hormonal IUDs are thin, long-acting progestin-containing capsules.
This prevents the development and release of eggs, and thickens cervical mucus, blocking sperm from entering the uterus.
The IUDs currently used in Sri Lanka can prevent pregnancy for up to 3 or 5 years.
They are inserted under the skin of a woman’s upper arm by a trained doctor through a small incision.
The IUDs are removed at the end of the cycle. If necessary, they can be reinserted. Hormonal IUDs can be reinserted over the long term without any problems.
5. Intrauterine Device (IUD) / Copper T-IUD
This is a small, flexible device made of copper and plastic that does not harm the body.
This can prevent unwanted pregnancies for up to 10 years.
In the meantime, if a child is desired, it can be easily removed, and fertility can be restored at any time. The IUD must be removed at the end of 10 years, and a new one must be inserted the same day if you want to avoid pregnancy.
The IUD mainly prevents fertilization of the egg and, if fertilization does occur, prevents the fertilized egg from implanting.
It is inserted into the uterus by a trained doctor or nurse at a family planning clinic.
This method is a long-term contraceptive, but it can also be used as a short-term method for someone who needs it. Copper T is also used to prevent an unexpected pregnancy.
Can I prevent a sexually transmitted infection?
Although teenage sex is wonderful, if it is not done safely, it can lead to pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.
The best way to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections is to use a condom correctly every time you have sex.
Sexually transmitted infections and their symptoms are covered on the Let’s Learn About Sexual Health page.
