Birth control pills (also called oral contraceptive pills or the “Pill”) are a type of female hormonal birth control method. Teens take the birth control pill for a variety of reasons and none of them are wrong! For example, some teens who experience irregular periods (meaning their period cycle is erratic or inconsistent) may take the pill to regulate their cycle; some teens may use the pill to relieve painful cramps associated with their periods, while other teens may simply want to protect themselves from getting pregnant. As long it is done safely, any of these reasons is completely fine!
That being said, there are a lot of misconceptions on the internet about the effects the pill has on one’s fertility (ability to become pregnant). It’s super important to mention that although the pill regulates female hormones, once you stop taking it, it does not affect one’s ability to a have a child. This means that the pill does not cause a woman to become barren, infertile, or sterile. It has been proven that there is no scientific link between the use of birth control and infertility (inability to become pregnant). However, if teens have concerns regarding their ability to become pregnant, it is strongly encouraged that they speak with their health care provider (HCP).
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