I'm 14 and I have been trying to find out the most reliable method of contraception. I have learnt about the implant at school and that seems like the ideal method for me as I don't think I would remember to take the Pill every day. I will consult my parents before taking any action but if they won't help me will I be able to get the implant alone? Also, I have heard that it can make you put on weight or stop you from losing weight. I struggle with weight issues and body image and if that is the case I would continue to find another method of contraception. I have also heard that it can either stop periods or give you one continuous period. Is this true?
Sam
Hello,
Thanks for getting in touch.
There’s many different forms of contraception and these suit different people for different reasons. It sounds like you’ve given a lot of thought to your personal circumstances and have been open and honest with yourself about what would and wouldn’t work for you.
Talking things over with your parents sounds like a good idea as it’s helpful to get as much information and support as possible when making choices like this. This will help you to make a decision that is right for you. You asked if you can get the contraceptive implant fitted alone if your parents won’t help you. As you are 14, the medical professional that you speak to will want to make sure that you’re mature enough to understand the pros and cons of having the implant. If they are confident that you fully understand the choice you’re making, they should be willing to give you the implant without parental consent.
Unfortunately no form of contraception protects you 100% from becoming pregnant or against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), which is why some people choose to use a condom as well as another form of contraception. This gives you added reassurance you won't get pregnant and offers protection against STI’s. It also helps share the responsibility between you and your partner, as it shouldn’t just be down to you to think about contraception. There’s many different types of condoms and this is something that you can discuss together and make a choice that is right for you both. Condoms can be available for free at your doctors, Brook clinics and other specialist sexual health clinics for young people, and even at some youth centres and pharmacies.
You’ve asked me some specific questions about the possible side effects of the implant. I’m not a medical expert, so I’m going to suggest another great website that will be better able to answer your questions. Brook specialise in sexual health and supporting young people, and they have a page about the contraceptive implant that might help you out. If you decide the implant is not for you, the My Contraception Tool on their website will help you to identify contraception that would suit you better. You can even chat online with a specially trained advisor at Brook.
Take care
Sam
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