The Pill is for More Than Birth Control

A new study by the Guttmacher Institute shows that teen girls are using the Pill for more than just birth control. According to the study, one in three teenage girls use the Pill for non contraceptive reasons including treatment for acne, menstrual cramps, regulation of periods and migraine treatment.

This is reportedly the first study that examined uses for the Pill other than contraception. Results indicate that 14% of women between the ages of 15-44 take the Pill for reasons not related to birth control. In fact, approximately 50% of these women have never had sex. An added benefit is that if and when these women do have sex they will already be protected against unplanned pregnancy.

Health professionals point out this study validates the health benefits of the Pill including menstrual regulation and less severe cramps. At the same time, cases of health care providers refusing oral contraception to teenagers is discussed despite reported difficulties with periods. Apparently, prescriptions were refused because the girls reported they were not sexually active.

Teens reported fear of asking for the birth control Pill for relief of cramps and menstrual irregularities. Non-sexually active teenage girls and boys in relationships with girls in the research study reported anxiety about parents assuming a sexual relationship when there was not one if the girl asked for birth control pills. Despite this, teenage girls were reportedly very interested in learning about health benefits of the pill, particularly regulating periods and helping with severe cramps.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2062546/One-teenage-girls-pill...