Many Teens Not Using Birth Control

March 13, 2009 - PRLog -- Although widely promoted, birth control is something many teens avoid during sexual activity, the Center for Disease Control reported recently. And although condom use increased in the 1990’s, the five years since 2003 have shown no increase in the use of birth control among teens, a popular medical blogger reported recently.

Writing in a blog on the website RH Reality Check, Dr. Tamer Middleton called the lack of birth control use “unacceptable.” Middleton is a member of Physicians for Reproductive Choice and Health, and practices family medicine in Georgia and Alabama.

The comments are relevant to teens and young adults in Berwyn, IL as well as Cicero, Maywood and other nearby areas who are sexually active.

The doctor’s observation is one that has been made for many years, as teens show a reluctance to use birth control. The teens’ doctors follow a similar level in broaching the subject, Dr. Middleton reported. A 2005 study of doctors' checkups of 13- to 18-year-olds in the U.S. showed that researchers found that only 8% of these appointments covered birth control.

Dr. Middleton says she is one of a “tiny minority” among physicians promoting birth control to their teen patients. She reports that recently a 15-year-old girl came to her for an abortion. The girl said she had never talked to a doctor about birth control or STDs. Dr. Middleton spoke to her about the termination of pregnancy, the ring, the IUD, Depo-Provera, the patch, and the various birth control pills.

Women interested in traditional or alternative birth control options should contact WomanCare Services in Berwyn at 708-795-6000. Visit their website at http://www.womancare.org.

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WomanCare Services, of Berwyn, IL provides help to women with unexpected pregnancies. You don't have to wait to be seen by one of our team members. Often, you can make an appointment for the same day. Our consultations are confidential and free of charge. Call 708-795-6000.