Methods of Pregnancy Prevention Get the information you need to stay safe.

Canadian Teenage Pregnancy Statistics Teenage pregnancyby Heather Dryburgh Health Reports, Vol. 12, No. 1 During the last quarter century, there has been an overall decline in the teenage pregnancy rate in Canada, perhaps reflecting the availability of contraceptives, and the increased awareness of the risks of unprotected sex brought about by the AIDS epidemic. 1 Nevertheless, in 1997, an estimated 19,724 women aged 15 to 19 gave birth, and a slightly larger number in this age range—21,233—had an abortion.The social stigma that once attended out-of-wedlock pregnancy may have diminished; however, the risks of serious health consequences remain for babies born to mothers still in their teens.

Canadian Teenage Pregnancy Statistics Children of teenagers are more likely to have low birth weights, and to suffer the associated health problems. 2 Pregnant teens themselves are also at greater risk of health problems, including, for example, anemia, hypertension, renal disease, eclampsia and depressive disorders. 3,4 As well, teenagers who engage in unprotected sex are putting their own health at risk of sexually transmitted infections. 1 Teenage pregnancy also has economic consequences. Childbearing may curtail education and thereby reduce a young woman’s employment prospects in a job market that requires ever higher levels of training. 8,9 In addition, recessions in the early 1980s and 1990s meant that to maintain an adequate standard of living, dual earning became the norm in many Canadian households. 10 But teenagers who give birth, particularly at ages 15 to 17, are likely to be single. Consequently, most teenage mothers lack a partner to contribute to the household income. 3

Teenage pregnancy rates, women aged 15 to 19, by province and territory, 1997Data sources: Health Statistics Division; Canadian Vital Statistics Data Base; Canadian Institute for Health Information

Teen Pregnancy – Guided Reading Take out a piece of loose leaf. You are going to respond to this story about teen pregnancy. Be as descriptive about your feelings as possible when responding. Express your opinions and how you may feel if you were in the same position To be passed in.

Methods Of Pregnancy Prevention On your handout, make sure you fill in all of the information possible. These are to be handed in at the end of the class. You may have to read between the lines in order to obtain all the information. Ask as many questions as you need.

Abstinence Abstinence is a voluntary restraint from indulging in bodily activities that are widely experienced as giving pleasure. Most frequently, the term refers to abstention from sexual intercourse, alcohol or food. The practice can arise from religious prohibitions or practical considerations.

Condoms and Spermicide Condoms function by covering the penis in a tightly formed coating of rubber or latex. The condom collects the sperm and semen. A condom is most reliable when used with a spermicidal cream. When used correctly, they can be between 88 and 96% effective. Condoms can be purchased almost anywhere personal items are sold.

Condoms and Spermicides Condoms only offer some protection from STIs and HIV Some disadvantages include: dulling a man’s sexual feeling, irritation of the genital area, can only be used once.

Emergency Contraceptives Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs)—sometimes simply referred to as emergency contraceptives (ECs) or the "morning-after pill"—are drugs that act both to prevent ovulation and fertilization immediately after sexual intercourse. Usually is only around 75% effective. An EC is found in the same place that you purchase other contraceptives. It is available without a prescription. Cost is about $40

Emergency Contraceptives It is particularly safe, and as well will help prevent unwanted pregnancies due to non- consensual sex. Very few side effects, other than nausea, fatigue an stomach aches.

The “Pill”

Oral Contraceptive 97 – 99 % effective, if you never miss a pill! Hormones that are taken by mouth each day that stop the ovaries from releasing an egg. You must have prescription from doctor. Cost: $30 - $40 dollars a month. Advantage: VERY SAFE. Disadvantages: weight gain, headaches, mood changes and NO PROTECTION AGAINST STIs.

The Withdrawal Method The withdrawal of the penis from the vagina before ejaculation so that the bulk of semen does not enter the vaginal canal. This is approximately 70% effective. HOWEVER: a male expels a pre-ejaculate from his penis during sex which contains sperm as well. Advantages: FREE, no allergic reactions Disadvantages: pregnancy will likely happen. – Absolutely no protection against STIs.

Depo-Provera

A shot is given every 3 months to prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg. 99% - 100% effective. Available from any doctor with a prescription. Cost: $40 an injection. Safe and effective. Commonly causes irregular menstrual bleeding. Risk of osteoporosis in later life, no protection against STIs.

Natural Rhythm

Woman looks for body signs each day to check for fertile periods: cervical mucus, body temperature and day of cycle. Cost? Paper and a pencil. Maybe a calendar. Advantage: many. Disadvantage: Takes time and practice to understand your daily rhythms. Does not protect against STIs. You run the risk of pregnancy if you are incorrect with your planning.

Intra-Uterine Device (IUD)

IUD A surgical insertion of a small thin, flexible T-shaped device in the uterus to prevent pregnancy. It prevents you from ovulating. 97% effective. Remains effective for 8 to ten years. Can be removed when ever you want to become pregnant. May cause increased cramping during menstruation. May lead to development of certain STIs. Costs between $300 and $600 dollars.

Engage in lower-risk sexual activity.