Life as a teenager is already challenging, with everything on the table that needs figuring out. Then imagine you add an unplanned or unwanted pregnancy to it. You already know how nearly everything is expensive in this country, even before we talk about baby diapers and other necessary and important items for the baby. So, to avoid all these problems, it’s better to prevent yourself from getting pregnant and stay focused on your goals. Below are seven (7) methods one can use to prevent pregnancy.
1. Abstinence
One of the safest ways to avoid teenage pregnancy is by choosing not to have sex.
As a teen, focusing on your goals and building your self-esteem can help you stay on track until you’re truly ready for any sexual relationship and its responsibilities.
By choosing abstinence, you won’t have to worry about unplanned pregnancies or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
But hey, we get it—sometimes things happen. As your fam at Gal’s Guidance, we listen and we don’t judge. If you’re sexually active or just curious, we’ve got 6 other ways to prevent pregnancy. Keep reading!
2. Withdrawal or Pull out
Withdrawal, also known as the “pull-out method,” is when the male partner removes his penis from the vagina before ejaculation to reduce the chance of pregnancy. While any man can do this method, it requires perfect timing and control to get it right.
- You could get pregnant from the small amount of fluid that leaks from the penis before ejaculation, known as pre-cum.
- You could get pregnant if the guy pulls out but some sperm drops near the vagina, as there’s a chance it could still make its way inside.
Helpful Tip: Combine the pull-out method with a condom for extra protection. This way, you lower the chances of both pregnancy and STDs!
While the pull-out method is not the most reliable option, some people turn to it when other birth control methods are not available. It is also important to note that withdrawal doesn’t protect against STDs, which is why you should always use condoms, which we will talk about next.
3. Condoms
A condom is a small, stretchy, and oily rubber that the man wears during sex to prevent unwanted pregnancy and STDs. You can grab them from almost any pharmacy or drugstore in Liberia. There is also a female condom, but it’s not currently available in Liberia.
- Why condoms are great:
- They help stop both pregnancies and STDs—talk about multitasking!
- Unlike pills or injections, condoms don’t charklar your hormones or mood.
- Downsides:
- If you don’t use them correctly, they can break or slip off, and nobody wants that kind of surprise.
- Some people say stopping to put one on “kills the mood,” but honestly, it’s a small trade-off for peace of mind.
- Condoms are not 100% foolproof, so combining them with another method like pulling out offers extra protection.
4. Fertility Awareness
Fertility awareness is when you track your monthly cycle to avoid pregnancy by not having sex around the time your body releases an egg.
- A menstrual cycle lasts for 28 days, but it can range from 21 to 25 days. Your chance of getting pregnant is high on days 10-14, and your safest time for sexual intercourse is during days 1-7 and day 19 to the end of your cycle.
We get it, It takes a lot of effort to count the days. But thanks to technology, there are free apps you can use to track your period such as Flo and Period Tracker.
Here are some advantages and disadvantages of Fertility awareness method:
Pros: It’s natural, with no pills or devices needed.
Cons: It requires consistent tracking and doesn’t protect against STDs.
5. Implant birth control method
The implant is a tiny, flexible rod that a doctor gently places under the skin of your upper arm. It releases hormones to prevent pregnancy by stopping eggs from being released. Over 99% effective, it lasts for three to five years and can be removed at any time.
Some people might notice changes like irregular periods, headaches, or mood swings, but these usually improve with time. In Liberia, the implant may cost between 10-15 USD, depending on the clinic.
6. Intrauterine Device (IUD)
The IUD is a small, T-shaped device that a doctor places inside your uterus to prevent pregnancy.
- Lasts up to 10 years and is over 99% effective.
- The process is quick, and any cramping usually goes away soon.
In Liberia, the cost of an IUD typically ranges from 10-20 USD, depending on the clinic and type.
7. Emergency Contraceptive Pills
Also called the morning-after pill, these pills can prevent pregnancy if taken within 72 hours after unprotected sex.
- Available at pharmacies for around 250 Liberian dollars.
- Tip: Keep one on hand if you’re sexually active, and follow the instructions carefully.
Pregnancy is a beautiful thing, but it’s also life-changing. As a teenager, it’s okay to prioritize your goals, dreams, and future by practicing these preventive methods. Remember, it’s better to stay safe than to take risks that could make your journey more difficult.
Author
Ivan S. Fiske Iv
Writer, Gal’s Guidance
Martina Pinky Walker
Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)
Graduate of Smythe University, Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nurse (RN)
