Why Do Teenagers Have Access To Free Confidential Contraceptives

Emotional and psychological harm, pregnancy, and STD infections can all be a result for teens that are sexually active. Abstinence programs teach teens to stay away from sex with the fear of contracting diseases and putting their health at risk. However, there is not a definite method to keep teenagers away from being sexually active, even with furthering their education. Whereas if teens had access to free, confidential contraceptives, they would have the ability to protect their health at an early stage in their lives. Contraceptives usually require parental consent, which makes it unlikely for teens to have access to them, thus potentially leading to pregnancy and emotional harm. If Planned Parenthood or Insurance Companies offered free, confidential contraceptives, it would give teens the opportunity to …show more content…
Teens are less likely to acquire contraceptives if their parents have to give consent because many teens are not open with their parents about that aspect of their lives. Statistics show that about 54.9% of females use condoms, which are only 88% effective, while only 18.7% use birth control, which is 97% effective(Percentage of...). Since there is easy access to condoms and they are affordable, teenagers are more likely to use them; while getting birth control requires parental consent and costs more, so there is less of a chance teens will have access to them. It is important for teens to use contraceptives and be aware of the risks they are taking if they have unprotected sex. If teens take full precautions when being sexually active, it can promote their health and help them stay away from any unwanted