From the Guidelines
For a 13-year-old considering birth control, the most appropriate options typically include hormonal methods like the pill, patch, or ring, as well as long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) such as the implant or hormonal IUD, which can provide effective contraception and other health benefits. When choosing a birth control method, it's essential to consider the adolescent's medical history, maturity level, and specific needs.
- Hormonal methods like the pill, patch, or ring can help regulate periods and treat conditions like acne or painful menstruation beyond their contraceptive benefits 1.
- LARCs, such as the implant (Nexplanon) or hormonal IUD (Mirena, Kyleena, or Skyla), are safe and effective options for many adolescents, including those who have not been pregnant or given birth 1.
- Barrier methods like condoms are crucial for preventing sexually transmitted infections and should be used regardless of other methods chosen. The decision should involve both the adolescent and a parent or guardian in most cases, with consideration of the teen's individual circumstances.
- Healthcare providers can offer confidential services in many locations, though parental involvement is generally encouraged 1. Any birth control method should be accompanied by comprehensive sexual education and regular healthcare visits to monitor for side effects and ensure the method remains appropriate as the adolescent develops.
- It's also important to discuss emergency contraception options, such as ulipristal acetate or levonorgestrel, which can prevent pregnancy when initiated up to 5 days after an act of underprotected sexual intercourse 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Birth Control Options for 13-Year-Olds
The following birth control options are suitable for teenagers, including 13-year-olds:
- Oral contraceptives: considered a safe method to avoid unwanted pregnancy, with negligible risks associated with their use by teenagers 2
- Barrier methods: such as condoms, which have the advantage of preventing the spread of sexually transmitted diseases 3
- Other options: including spermicides, sponges, intrauterine devices, periodic abstinence, and the morning after pill 3
Safety and Efficacy of Birth Control Options
Studies have shown that:
- Low-dose oral contraceptives have not been linked with heart attack or stroke in contemporary US studies, and the risk of death from oral contraceptive use for teenagers is virtually nil 2
- The efficacy and safety of a new low-dose levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol contraceptive patch are comparable to those of a pill 4
- The 52-mg levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system is a long-acting contraceptive option with high efficacy and a favorable safety profile 5
- A levonorgestrel/ethinyl estradiol transdermal delivery system is an effective and well-tolerated contraceptive option, although its efficacy is reduced in women with a BMI ≥30 kg/m2 6
Considerations for 13-Year-Olds
When considering birth control options for 13-year-olds, it is essential to: