Sexual Development About Birth Control: What Parents Need to Know Talking to your kids about sex can be a challenge. But discussing issues like birth control can help lower teens' risk of unintended pregnancy or getting an STD. About Implantable Contraception Read this article to learn what implantable contraception is, how well it works, and more. About Abstinence Abstinence is the only form of birth control that is 100% effective in preventing pregnancy. Abstinence also protects people against STDs. About the Birth Control Patch Find out about this method of birth control, including how well it works and possible side effects. About the Birth Control Ring Talking to your kids about sex can be daunting. But discussing issues like abstinence, STDs, and birth control can help lower teens' risk of unintended pregnancy or contracting an STD. The Birth Control Shot The birth control shot is an injection given to a girl every 3 months to help prevent pregnancy. Find out more. About the Birth Control Pill Discussing issues like abstinence, STDs, and birth control can help lower teens' risk of unintended pregnancy or getting an STD. The birth control pill (also called "the Pill") is a daily pill that is taken to prevent pregnancy. About the Cervical Cap The cervical cap covers the cervix so sperm can't get in and fertilize an egg. It's not usually recommended for most young women and teens because it can be very hard to insert correctly. About Condoms Condoms are thin pouches that keep sperm from getting into the vagina. There are male condoms and female condoms. Delayed Puberty Puberty usually begins in girls 8-14, and in boys 9-15. If kids pass this normal age range without showing any signs of body changes, it's called delayed puberty. Sexual Development Big physical and emotional changes happen during puberty and the teen years. These articles can help you become a source of information, comfort, and support for your kids. About the Diaphragm A diaphragm may be a birth control good option for young women who can take responsibility in advance. Find out more. About Emergency Contraception Emergency contraception is a way to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex; for example, if a condom breaks or slips off during sex. When Should My Daughter First Go to the Gynecologist? Find out what the experts say. Should Girls Who Aren't Sexually Active Be Vaccinated Against HPV? Find out what the experts have to say. About the IUD An IUD is a piece of T-shaped plastic placed inside the uterus. It's a good birth control option because it lasts for many years, needs no daily care, and is very effective at preventing pregnancy. Fertility Awareness Fertility awareness is a way to try to prevent pregnancy by not having sex around the time of ovulation. It is not a reliable birth control method for most people. Sexual Orientation During the teen years, sexual feelings are awakened in new ways because of the hormonal and physical changes of puberty. It takes time for many kids to understand who they are and who they're becoming. Part of that understanding includes a person's sexual feelings and attractions. About Spermicide Spermicides can be used alone but are more effective when used with another method of birth control, such as a condom or diaphragm. Talking to Your Kids About STDs Your kids need to understand how STDs spread and how to protect themselves. Here's how to talk to them about sexually transmitted diseases. About Withdrawal Even for people who think they are doing it correctly, withdrawal is not an effective way to prevent pregnancy.