Chapter 10: Contraception

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About this Chapter
Even though most sexuality education programs for youth encourage delaying sexual intercourse, young people still need to be fully informed about contraception so that the knowledge is there when they need it. For many people, your sexuality education course will be the only time in their lives that they receive structured, accurate information and education on the subject.

There are many obstacles to contraceptive use by adolescents. One common reason given by adolescents for not using it is that they did not expect to have sex. This is a manifestation of widespread denial of adolescent sexuality, and of female sexuality in particular. Girls learn that they should not want or think about sex and are discouraged from using contraception or carrying condoms for fear that their “reputation” will be ruined. For boys, the message is often the opposite. Such double standards discourage girls from accepting and taking responsibility for their sexuality, discourage open communication between partners, and increase the likelihood of unsafe sex. Adolescents often face other obstacles as well: they don’t know where to get contraceptives; they can’t afford them; they’re too embarrassed to get them; they’ve heard that “the pill will make them fat” or “condoms don’t work.”

Many countries would like to reduce their rates of adolescent pregnancy, and particularly those pregnancies that are unwanted. Even where condoms and other methods are available, adolescents often lack the confidence and skills to propose and negotiate contraceptive use and to refuse sex without protection. Sexuality education should not only impart information but also help participants to develop the communication and negotiating skills they need to practice safer sex.

As a result of biology, gender inequality, and a scientific community slow to develop contraceptives for men, the burden of pregnancy prevention is usually not equally shared between partners. Women typically must obtain and pay for methods of contraception, even the male condom, and they must assume the possible side effects of systemic hormonal contraceptives. Women also ultimately bear the consequences of contraceptive failure or misuse.