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# 270
Should I shave my genitals or no?
Shaving one's pubic hair (or not) is a cosmetic or personal preference, and it does not mean you are "cleaner" if you shave.
# 261
Where can I go other than Adanta for mental health stuff and to be checked for adhd or add
The answer depends on which county you are from. If you can post another question listing your county, we will try to explore more options. Your local school counselor will also know the resources. Perhaps the resources on this page https://www.lcdhd.org/info-tools/county/ can help you.
# 259
[Hidden question]
From a teen public health perspective, we didn't see the relevance of your question.
# 258
What's better anal of regular sex?
That is a matter of personal preference. Make sure both partners are okay with doing this. Also, please remember that having sex is a big decision. Please follow your head and not just your heart. We would always recommend waiting on sex until you are mature and in a committed relationship. If you insist on having sex, remember that you can get pregnant, or contract a Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD), also referred to as a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI). You can find out much more here STDs, pregnancy, birth control.
# 257
whats chlamydia?
Chlamydia is a Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD)/Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI). In other words, it is a disease that can be passed during sex. It is a bacterial infection with symptoms of 1) discharge from the vagina, penis, or anus, 2) pain in the lower belly. 3) fever or 4) pain when peeing. Learn more at What is Chlamydia or Learn more about STDs/STIs.
# 255
okay if condom sex is safest how do i know what condom size to wear?
The regular size should work fine.
# 252
[Edited Wording] I want to learn more about the appropriate development of the male sexual organ.
Here is a good link to address your concern: Your Changing Body. Also, use all the resources at: Teen Health.
# 250
okay if condom sex is safest how do i know what condom size to wear?
The regular size should work fine.
# 249
[Edited Wording] I want to learn more about the appropriate development of the male sexual organ.
Here is a good link to address your concern: Your Changing Body. Also, use all the resources at: Teen Health.
# 248
what is coochie snot?
According to the Urban Dictionary, a gelatinous discharge that has dripped down from within the vagina to the grundle region in a snotty, runny nose like manner. Possibly composed of ejaculated semen, blood, and / or other vaginal juices.
# 247
okay if condom sex is safest how do i know what condom size to wear?
The regular size should work fine.
# 246
[Hidden Question]
From a teen public health perspective, we didn't see the relevance of your question.
# 245
I'm a 17-year-old female virgin and I tried having sex for the first time about a week ago and his penis wouldn't go in it just wouldn't fit. Does that mean I'm not ready or what?
There are a variety of reasons this could have happened. To be safe, I would encourage you to call our health department clinic (see locations) and schedule an appointment for a well-woman exam prior to sexual activity. A nurse practitioner will do a physical exam and provide counseling. Here is a link for some more information Teen Sexual Health.
Also, please remember that having sex is a big decision. Please follow your head and not just your heart. We would always recommend waiting on sex until you are mature and in a committed relationship. If you insist on having sex, remember that you can get pregnant, or contract a Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD), also referred to as a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI). You can find out much more here STDs, pregnancy, birth control.
# 244
i was kissing this girl and i had a orgasm why did that happen?
Young people can be easily excited. This isn't a health concern. As you age, these types of things will quit happening.
# 242
I think i might be suffering from depersonalization, and its really affecting my life in a lot of aspects, what should I do?
In psychiatry, depersonalization is a state in which one's thoughts and feelings seem unreal or not to belong to oneself, or in which one loses all sense of identity. Assuming this is that to which you refer, we would encourage you to speak to a counselor. This can be an early sign of a serious mental health condition. Or it can be a normal response to life stress. Regardless, someone with expertise should assess your situation. Perhaps, you could start with your school counselor.
# 241
Testing test number two
# 240
Do girls have wet dreams?
Most males and females dream about having sex. So, yes, males and females both have "wet dreams".
# 239
Could a blood test tell if you are pregnant before 2 weeks or less?
Blood tests detect pregnancy between 10-14 days.
# 237
okay so im a 14 year old female, do I bleed or no whenever I have sex for the first time
Most girls do bleed the first time they have sex. Just inside the vaginal opening is a membrane called the hymen. This usually breaks when a female virgin has sex for the first time and this results in bleeding. Remember, having sex is a big decision. Please follow your head and not just your heart. We would always recommend waiting on sex until you are mature and in a committed relationship. If you insist on having sex, remember that you can get pregnant, or contract a Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD), also referred to as a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI). You can find out much more here STDs, pregnancy, birth control.
# 236
[Edited Wording] I want to learn more about the appropriate development of the male sexual organ.
Here is a good link to address your concern: Your Changing Body. Also, use all the resources at: Teen Health.
# 234
How old do you need to be before you should start making your own decisions on your life choices?
In reality, until one turns 18, they are legally considered a minor and are under their parent's authority. Until then, young people have to face the same challenge all young people have faced since the beginning of time, how to become more independent while living under their parent's legal authority.
The best advice I have for you is to have a good relationship with your parents along with open and honest communications. Generally speaking, parents love their children and just want them to be safe and happy. Be honest with your parents. When you agree on various privileges, make sure you always are at the places where you said you would be, and are doing the things you said you would do. Most parents will grant additional privileges the more and more trust is established.
You may one day realize that the only people you will be able to truly count on are your family. So, don't burn those bridges.
# 233
Do you have to pay for birth control? Also, do you need proof of insurance, etc.?
Insurance plans cover birth control at no cost to the patient. However, some plans only cover certain brands of pills or a generic version. Generally speaking, you should provide proof of insurance or be billed self-pay. However, if you are a teen and don't want your parents to know about your visit, you won't be required to use your insurance and we can list you as a "no home contact". Birth control will still be free.
# 232
I want to have sex for the first time but I don't know-how. I need help.
Having sex is a big decision. Please follow your head and not just your heart. We would always recommend waiting on sex until you are mature and in a committed relationship. If you insist on having sex, remember that you can get pregnant (if you are a female), or can get a female pregnant (if you are a male). Then there are the issues of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), also referred to as Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). Sex is when a male inserts his penis into a female's vagina. You can find out much more here STDs, pregnancy, birth control.
# 230
Hello, I have had the depo shot from a women's clinic. The last shot I had was in February sometime of this year. Some of my coworkers and I think I might be pregnant. But I took a test and it was negative. It still could be too early for a test. I am having some symptoms like hard/sore nipples, sense of smell has heightened (like when I smell some foods makes me feel like I'm gonna get sick, and lower stomach pain. Ever since I first got my first period they have been irregular. Is it possible to be pregnant, even though I have yet to have a period since I have been off the depo shot?
It's possible. You need to have blood drawn to make that determination, I suggest you see your family physician to receive an order for the test.
# 229
Where do babies come from?
Babies come from having sex. This is when a male inserts his penis into a female's vagina and has an orgasm. You can find out much more here babies, birth control, and STDs.
# 227
Shouldn’t this class be given separately for boys and girls? I’m in 7th grade but I don’t feel comfortable attending this class with the boys in our class and I sure would not want to ask a question if I didn’t understand something.
I can appreciate your discomfort! When we come to classes, it is by invitation, and we don't really get to choose how they are divided up. I suspect your are more mature than some of your classmates. If you have any questions following one of our classes, please ask your school counselor or school nurse. Or, feel free to post your questions to our website. If you do, I assure you we will answer them. Also, this is a website that might answer many of your questions: Teen Health for Girls.
# 224
I’m a male that had unprotected oral sex in the past two weeks. I’ve noticed my penis feels inflamed sometimes. Do I have an STD?
There’s really no way to know without being seen by a health professional and receiving testing.
# 223
I am a 15-year-old male. Why hasn't puberty started yet?
Puberty begins at different ages for different boys. Sometimes it starts as late as 16. These links should help you: Everything You Wanted to Know About Puberty". And this one: Delayed Puberty.
# 222
I've been having trouble wondering if i should have sex or send nudes to my older guy friend.
Sharing nude photos is not a good idea. Those can be copied and shared with others. It is pretty rare that these "private" photos stay private. Plus, people can hang onto these and share them forever.
We would always suggest you reserve sex for a committed relationship when you are mature. If you insist on having sex, please be safe. Here is a link to help with that: Safe Sex.
# 221
How do you get pregnant?
Thanks for your question. Basically, a female gets pregnant during sex (when a male inserts his penis into a female's vagina and orgasms). You can find out a lot more details here: Pregnancy and Birth Control.
# 217
I recently had sex with a girl who turned out to have Chlamydia. What do I have to do to get treated as soon as possible?
See someone at an after hours clinic or come to the local Health Department first thing Monday A.M No sex this weekend.
# 216
Why do you preach that abstinence is what we should all do when in reality very few people follow that?
Abstinence is the best policy so you avoid both unwanted pregnancies and STDs/STIs. However, if you insist on having sex, there are ways to protect yourself. See Safe Sex.
# 202
[Edited Wording] Question concerning having a pleasurable sexual experience.
These links should answer most of the questions you and your girlfriend have: Teen Sexual Health; and, Pain During Intercourse.
Remember, though, that sex outside of a mature, committed relationship can lead to unwanted pregnancy and STDs/STIs. The best way to prevent such is to not have sex. This is called abstinence. For many reasons, the best and most responsible thing to do is to save sex for a long-term, committed relationship such as marriage.
Learn more about STDs/STIs at: STDs/STIs. Learn about how to have safe sex at: Safe Sex Tips.
# 201
Is there anywhere I can get free birth control without a parents consent/signature??
Your local health department offers family planning services regardless of age or parental consent. The healthcare provider at the health department will discuss with you the best option for a birth control method. Please contact your local health department for more information.
Remember, pregnancy is not the only concern associated with sexual activity. Sexually transmitted diseases or infections (STDs or STIs), are also a risk. Learn more at, STDs. To learn more about sexual health in general, visit, Teen Sexual Health.
For many reasons, including unwanted pregnancy and possible sex related infections (STDs or STIs), the best and most responsible thing to do is to save sex for a long-term, committed relationship such as marriage. If you are determined to continue having sex, please learn some ways to be safer at, Safer Sex Tips.
# 200
[Edited wording] Why do I have a short penis? I'm a 9 year old boy?
Your penis should develop during puberty. This link should help you: Puberty: Boys.
# 197
How can a depression medicine make you have more depression? I don't understand. It's to help with it, not add more to it.
The brain chemistry of depression is a complex problem as is the chemistry of anti-depressants. Sometimes medication produces paradoxical results- that is opposite to what you would expect- in certain genetically predisposed people. Some natural strategies which have been shown to help treat depression include exercise such as walking, being outdoors to be part of nature, eating a plant based diet and getting 8 hours sleep every night.
It is also a good idea to discuss these issues with the doctor that prescribed your medicine.
Also, there are many different type of medication for depression and they work in different ways. If a medication isn’t working or seems to make someone feel worse, it may not be the correct medicine for him/her and the person should talk to their doctor or seek a consult with a psychiatrist or psychiatric APRN. If you need assistance in finding resources you can contact your local community mental health center.
# 195
Can I call all in and get free birth control or do I need to see someone first?
You have to see someone first. You can either call your local health department for an appointment or just stop by. The healthcare provider at the health department will discuss with you the best option for a birth control method. Please contact your local health department for more information.
Remember, pregnancy is not the only concern associated with sexual activity. Sexually transmitted diseases or infections (STDs or STIs), are also a risk. Learn more at, STDs. To learn more about sexual health in general, visit, Teen Sexual Health.
For many reasons, including unwanted pregnancy and possible sex related infections (STDs or STIs), the best and most responsible thing to do is to save sex for a long-term, committed relationship such as marriage. If you are determined to continue having sex, please learn some ways to be safer at, Safer Sex Tips.
# 190
My stomache been hurting alot and ive been having morning sicknes
If you are sexually active, we recommend you take a home pregnancy test. You can also come to the local health department or your family physician to be evaluated. If you aren't sexually active, you should see your family doctor or your school nurse.
# 189
Why do my breasts have stretch marks?
Stretch marks are often the result of the rapid stretching of the skin associated with rapid growth or rapid weight changes. Stretch marks in most cases may also be influenced by hormonal changes associated with puberty, pregnancy, body building etc.
# 187
How can I get over depression and anger due to paternal verbal and occasionally physical abuse?
It isn't reasonable to believe you can have peace if you are being abused. I recommend you speak with a school counselor about your situation so a professional intervention may take place.
Here is a website that can help with mental health issues: teen mental health. But again, abuse is never okay, so seek help from your school counselor.
# 185
I have trouble reaching an orgasm. What could cause this?
If you are a female, this site might prove helpful: Help for Female. If you are a male: Help for a Male.
Remember, though, that the only way to avoid an unwanted pregnancy or a sexually transmitted infections if to abstain (not have sex). If abstaining is not an option then it's very important that you and your partner use a condom to reduce the risk of a pregnancy or an unwanted infection. Condoms, when used correctly, are 98% effective in preventing a pregnancy or infection. We encourage you to talk to a parent or trusted adult about having sex.
Learn more at, STDs. To learn more about sexual health in general, visit, Teen Sexual Health. If you are determined to have sex, please learn some ways to be safer at, Safer Sex Tips.
# 184
Where can I get tested for stds
You can be tested for Sexually Transmitted Diseases/Sexually Transmitted Infections (STDs/STIs) at your local health department. Here is the link for location information for your local health department.
Also, please note that the only way to avoid a sexually transmitted infection (or an unwanted pregnancy) is to abstain (not have sex). If abstaining is not an option then it's very important that you and your partner use a condom to reduce the risk of a pregnancy or an unwanted infection. Condoms, when used correctly, are 98% effective in preventing a pregnancy or infection. We encourage you to talk to a parent or trusted adult about having sex.
Learn more at, STDs. To learn more about sexual health in general, visit, Teen Sexual Health. If you are determined to have sex, please learn some ways to be safer at, Safer Sex Tips.
# 183
I'm a 12 grade guy and I'm kind of friends with this other 12 grade guy. I want to be closer with him because I don't have a lot of close friends. Many of my current friends have completely different personalities than I do but this other guy is pretty similar to how I am. We're both smart, quiet, and kind of awkward. However, I don't have his phone number, he doesn't really use his Facebook, and we're graduating soon. My question is how could I stay in contact with him without making any really awkward situations. Just walking up to him and asking for his number may seem awkward and it may look like I'm hitting on him.
I recommend just being honest. Tell him you'd like to stay in touch, and ask him for his contact information. True friendship is built on honesty and trust.
# 182
This is a test. ~Daniel M
This is a response. ~Shawn C
# 181
Can a teenager get therapy without a parent present?
At the health department we provide family planning services, STD testing, and counseling without parental consent. If you were asking about mental health or substance abuse counseling, please post a more specific question.
# 180
so today i was at school and during team sports something weird happened a group of 14 to 15 year old girls walked up to me and started talking to me and i'm 11
As long as they weren't bullying or making fun of you, most guys would consider that to be pretty cool.
# 177
What is sex stress?
Thank you for your question. I'm sorry, we need more information. Please clarify your question.
# 175
[Edited Wording] I want to learn more about the appropriate development of the male sexual organ.
Here is a good link to address your concern: Your Changing Body. Also, use all the resources at: Teen Health.
# 174
I'm 12 and my boyfriend is 14 we are going to have sex but we're not going to use a condom what r the chances of me getting pregnant because me getting pregnant is the last thing I want right now?
The only way to make sure you don't get pregnant or get an unwanted sexually transmitted infections if to abstain (not have sex). If abstaining is not an option then it's very important that you and your partner use a condom to reduce the risk of a pregnancy or an unwanted infection. Condoms, when used correctly, are 98% effective in preventing a pregnancy or infection. We encourage you to talk to a parent or trusted adult before having sex.
Remember, pregnancy is not the only concern associated with sexual activity. Sexually transmitted diseases or infections (STDs or STIs), are also a risk. Learn more at, STDs. To learn more about sexual health in general, visit, Teen Sexual Health. If you are determined to have sex, please learn some ways to be safer at, Safer Sex Tips.
# 172
Why do I often have discharge that is either green or yellow, and it stinks really bad? I drink water and I barely drink and pop, but I tend to eat a lot of candy. Does that make it worse or what?
We recommend you see a medical provider. The type of discharge you are describing is abnormal and you need to be evaluated. If you need help finding a provider, call your local health department. Here is our contact information: Health Department Locations and Phone Numbers.
# 171
I have bloody brown discharge for about 2 weeks around my period time. I did do oral sex 1 time but could it be STDs?
Small, occasional bleeding in between periods, also called break through bleeding, is normal. However, any time you have unprotected sex of any kind (oral, vaginal, anal) you are at risk for STDs. For more information or an appointment for testing, contact your local health department. Here are some links that might help you: Vaginal Discharge; Sexual Health; & STDs/STIs.
# 170
[Question regarding sexual performance]
Assuming you are a male, this website should be helpful: WebMD: Sexual Peformance. If this question was submitted by a female, please reword and resubmit.
# 168
Why do I often have discharge that is either green or yellow, and it stinks really bad? I drink water and I barely drink any pop, but I tend to eat a lot of candy. Does that make it worse or what?
We recommend you see a medical provider. The type of discharge you are describing is abnormal and you need to be evaluated. If you need help finding a provider, call your local health department. Here is our contact information: Health Department Locations and Phone Numbers.
# 167
Is semen ever supposed to be clear?
Semen color and consistency can vary based on several factors, such as age, diet and frequency of ejaculation. Semen is normally a whitish, cloudy fluid. It's usually quite thick just after ejaculation, but liquefies about 20 to 30 minutes later.
Changes in the appearance of semen are usually temporary and not a health concern. However, sometimes these changes can be a sign of an underlying medical condition that requires further evaluation. If these changes persist for longer than a week or two or if the color change is associated with other symptoms such as pain, fever, sexual dysfunction or blood in the urine, see your doctor for an evaluation.
# 166
Can I come in and get free birth control (preferably Mirana)? I need to do so without my mothers knowledge. And also get tested for any diseases just in case?
Your local health department offers family planning services regardless of age or parental consent. Your healthcare provider will discuss with you the best option for a birth control method. Please contact you local health department for more information.
Remember, pregnancy is not the only concern associated with sexual activity. Sexually transmitted diseases or infections (STDs or STIs), are also a risk. Learn more at, STDs. To learn more about sexual health in general, visit, Teen Sexual Health.
For many reasons, including unwanted pregnancy and possible sex related infections (STDs or STIs), the best and most responsible thing to do is to save sex for a long-term, committed relationship such as marriage. If you are determined to continue having sex, please learn some ways to be safer at, Safer Sex Tips.
# 164
[Hidden question]
Thank you so much for using our site. We did receive your question and want to help you. Could you please re-word your question? We had trouble understanding what you meant.
# 163
[Question regarding sexual performance]
Assuming you are a male, this website should be helpful: WebMD: Sexual Peformance. If this question was submitted by a female, please reword and resubmit.
# 161
[Edited Wording] I want to learn more about the appropriate development of the male sexual organ.
Here is a good link to address your concern: Your Changing Body. Also, use all the resources at: Teen Health.
# 160
[Edited wording] I've been having symptoms of pregnancy: nausea, irritability, food I like I somehow hate, food I hate I somehow I like, sleepiness, breasts are more sensitive, more sensitive sense of smell; but, I've been having sex for several days straight along with drug use. Is there a high chance that I am pregnant?
With almost all sexual activity there is a chance for pregnancy. You should contact your local health department and set up an appointment to have a pregnancy test as soon as possible.
Remember, pregnancy is not the only concern associated with sexual activity. Sexually transmitted diseases or infections (STDs or STIs), are also a risk. Learn more at, STDs. To learn more about sexual health in general, visit, Teen Sexual Health.
For many reasons, including unwanted pregnancy and possible sex related infections (STDs or STIs), the best and most responsible thing to do is to save sex for a long-term, committed relationship such as marriage. If you are determined to continue having sex, please learn some ways to be safer at, Safer Sex Tips.
Also of concern is your drug use. This page might provide some insights, Teens and Drugs and Alcohol.
# 159
I've been having sex for a couple months and it still hurts. I thought it was supposed to stop hurting after the first time.
Pain during sex can be caused by a variety of factors. You should contact your primary care physician or your local health department as you will need further evaluation.
Use this link for more information: Is Sex Painful the First Time.
Also, please be mindful of sexually transmitted diseases or infections (STDs or STIs). Learn more at, STDs. To learn more about sexual health in general, visit, Teen Sexual Health.
Finally, for many reasons, including unwanted pregnancy and possible sex related infections (STDs or STIs), the best and most responsible thing to do is to save sex for a long-term, committed relationship such as marriage. If you are determined to continue having sex, please learn some ways to be safer at, Safer Sex Tips.
# 157
[Hidden question]
From a teen public health perspective, we didn't see the relevance of your question. Please rephrase or clarify.
# 155
Will sex hurt the first time?
When a woman has vaginal sex for the first time, it can be a little painful. She may bleed a little, but this isn't always the case and usually occurs because the hymen has been broken during sexual intercourse. To learn about what the hymen is and about the female reproductive system, click here, Female Reproductive System.
When a man has sex for the first time it should not be painful. To learn more about the male reproductive system, click here, Male Reproductive System.
Keep in mind, for many reasons, including unwanted pregnancy and possible sex related infections (STDs or STIs), the best and most responsible thing to do is to save sex for a long-term, committed relationship such as marriage. If you are determined to have sex, please learn some ways to be safer at, Safer Sex Tips.
Learn more about STDs/STIs at, STDs. To learn more about sexual health in general, visit, Teen Sexual Health.
# 154
[Question regarding sexual performance]
By the way the question was worded, we're not sure if it was a male or female asking the question. Perhaps this website will be helpful: Teen Sexual Health. Otherwise, please rephrase the question.
Keep in mind, for many reasons, including unwanted pregnancy and possible sex related infections (STDs or STIs), the best and most responsible thing to do is to save sex for a long-term, committed relationship such as marriage. If you are determined to have sex, please learn some ways to be safer at, Safer Sex Tips.
Learn more about STDs/STIs at, STDs.
# 153
Should I use a condom when I'm having anal sex?
A condom should be used when having both anal and vaginal sex to reduce the risk of Sexually Transmitted Diseases/Infections (STDs/STIs) such as HIV, chlamydia and others. Perhaps, this site would be helpful for you, Teen Sexual Health.
For many reasons, including unwanted pregnancy and possible STDs/STIs, the best and most responsible thing to do is to save sex for a long-term, committed relationship such as marriage. If you are determined to continue having sex, please learn some ways to be safer at, Safer Sex Tips.
# 152
[Edited wording] I have a question about sex. Is it mentally and physically healthy?
Assuming both partners are free of Sexually Transmitted Diseases/Infections (STDs/STIs), when sex is shared between two partners who both want to have sex and who are both mature enough to deal with the emotional issues that emerge from having sex, then sex is indeed both mentally and physically healthy.
Sex is never healthy when either partner feels pressured to do so.
Often, teens lack the emotional maturity to deal with the consequences of sex.
To learn more about STDs/STIs, click here: STDs.
Finally, for many reasons, including unwanted pregnancy and possible sex related infections (STDs or STIs), the best and most responsible thing to do is to save sex for a long-term, committed relationship such as marriage. If you are determined to have sex, please learn some ways to be safer at, Safer Sex Tips.
# 150
Can you get canker sores in your mouth from oral sex?
Herpes simplex virus, commonly called cold sores or canker sores can be transmitted or passed from one partner to another during oral sex. To learn more, click: STD: Herpes Simplex Virus ; and: Canker vs Cold Sores .
Also, for many reasons, including unwanted pregnancy and possible sex related infections (STDs or STIs), the best and most responsible thing to do is to save sex for a long-term, committed relationship such as marriage. This is called abstinence. If you are determined to continue having sex, please learn some ways to be safer at: Safer Sex Tips.
To learn more about STDs/STIs, click here: STDs.
To learn more about sexual health in general, visit, Teen Sexual Health.
# 149
[Edited wording] What causes throbbing pain in the male sexual organ?
Here is a good website that might address your concerns:
Prostate.Net.
# 148
[Hidden question]
From a teen public health perspective, we didn't see the relevance of your question. Please rephrase or clarify.
# 147
[Edited wording] Is birth control 100% effective in preventing pregnancy?
Abstinence is the only method that provides 100% protection against pregnancy (See also the answer to 135 below).
When used correctly:
Oral contraception (pills) are 92% effective at preventing pregnancy,
Depo provera shots are 94% effective at preventing pregnancy,
Contraceptive patches are 91% effective at preventing pregnancy,
Vaginal hormonal ring are 91% effective at preventing pregnancy,
Interuterine devices (IUDs) are 99% effective at preventing pregnancy ,
Barrier methods (condoms, spermicides, foam, diaphragm) are 70-80% effective at preventing pregnancy.
To learn more, check out Effectiveness of Family Planning Methods; or, Teen Sexual Health.
# 146
[Hidden question]
From a teen public health perspective, we didn't see the relevance of your question.
# 145
[Hidden question]
From a teen public health perspective, we didn't see the relevance of your question. Please rephrase or clarify.
# 144
[Edited wording] Where can I learn more about sex?
Here is a link that you might find helpful: Teen Sexual Health.
# 143
When do you start your period?
You will start your period (also called menstruation) when your body is ready. Most girls start between the ages of 9 and 15. For more information regarding puberty and body changes, see When Will I Start My Period or Teen Health: All About Menstruation.
# 142
If I have stinging during sex and burning and soreness feeling during sex does that mean I have a disease or can it be from having sex too much?
Pain or discomfort during sex is quite common and can be caused by a variety of factors: medications, skin changes, infections, lack of lubrication just to name a few common causes. If pain and discomfort continue it is wise that you see your primary care physician or contact the local health department to be seen by a health professional.
Also, for many reasons, including unwanted pregnancy and possible sex related infections (STDs or STIs), the best and most responsible thing to do is to save sex for a long-term, committed relationship such as marriage. This is called abstinence. If you are determined to continue having sex, please learn some ways to be safer at: Safer Sex Tips.
To learn more about STDs/STIs, click here: STDs.
To learn more about sexual health in general, visit, Teen Sexual Health.
# 141
My boyfriend and I had sex last night and he didn't pull out. I take my birth control regularly and the way I am supposed to. Should I be worried?
I assume you are taking oral contraceptives. Oral contraceptives are 96% effective when taken correctly. For more information you can contact your local health department for options.
Remember, pregnancy is not the only concern associated with sexual activity. Sexually transmitted diseases or infections (STDs or STIs), are also a risk. Learn more at, STDs. To learn more about sexual health in general, visit, Teen Sexual Health.
# 139
Can stress make you lose weight?
While some people gain weight due to stress, for others the total opposite effect takes place. In these people stress can result in drastic weight loss. Serious ongoing stress can lead to anxiety, which can often trigger unintentional weight loss. Anxiety can lead to a loss of appetite, abdominal pains, or a feeling of fullness soon after beginning to eat, resulting in less food intake.
Those who are under a lot of stress may simply forget to eat, due to putting food as a low priority compared to other events in their lives. This leads to skipping meals and often results in weight loss. If this is the case for you it is important to see a health professional as you are at risk of developing nutritional deficiencies which can have serious consequences for your health and also increase anxiety levels.
Here are some links that might be helpful:
Unintentional Weight Loss,
Teen Health: Body.
# 138
[Edited Wording] I want to learn more about the appropriate development of the male sexual organ.
Here is a good link to address your concern: Your Changing Body. Also, use all the resources at: Teen Health.
# 137
What are some ways to cure depression?
You do have some control over feeling better. Staying connected to friends and family, making healthy lifestyle decisions, and keeping stress under control can all have a positive impact on your mood. Exercise is a another good way to improve mood. Get involved with friends or hobbies. Try reframing your negative thoughts into positive things in your life.
In the meantime, you might need therapy or medication to help you while you sort out your feelings. Look into your treatment options with your parents. Talk to someone you trust.
Here is a good link: Help Guide for Teenage Depression.
Eliza Clontz
The Adanta Group
# 136
Hi. I'm eighteen and so is my girlfriend. She has been raped several times. She is terrified to have anything penitrating her. How do I help her with that so she can be comfortable with sex?
Thank you for being aware of your girlfriend’s feelings and being willing to help her.
It is important to understand that sexual violence is another person using sex as a weapon to control and hurt someone. This can have long term impact on a person who has been raped in future relationships because their sense of trust and sense of control has been taken away especially in relation to sexual relationships. You can check out this online resource for additional information: https://www.rainn.org/get-information.
We would also highly recommend that your girlfriend seek out in-person assistance from a counseling professional. There is an organization that can provide you and your girlfriend with confidential assistance and information to help both of you build a stronger relationship. The Adanta Sexual Assault Resource Center (ASARC) provides services free of charge to survivors, their family, and friends to help the healing begin. You can contact Kathrina Riley at 800-954-4782, ext. 2013. She will provide you with more information and help set up any services either of you may need or request. ASARC also provides services through a 24/7 crisis line at 800-633-5599.
Finally, to gain some insight from a public health perspective, please consider the answer to question #115.
# 135
[Edited wording] When should a teen start having sex?
The best answer to your question is to not start having sex. This is called abstinence. For many reasons, the best and most responsible thing to do is to save sex for a long-term, committed relationship such as marriage. If you are determined to have sex, be aware of the risks: unwanted pregnancy and many diseases -- sexually transmitted diseases or infections (STDs or STIs).
Learn more about sex related diseases at: STDs.
If you still plan on having sex, this website discusses safer ways to do so: Safer Sex Tips.
# 134
[Edited wording] I want to learn more about appropriate development of the male sexual organ.
Here is a good link to address your concern: Your Changing Body. Also, use all the resources at: Teen Health.
# 132
[Edited wording] I'm 18 and want to learn more about appropriate development of the male sexual organ.
Here is a good link to address your concern: Your Changing Body. Also, use all the resources at: Teen Health.
# 131
How can I get a non-pill birth control without my parents knowing?
Adolescents and teens can be seen at their local health department for a physical exam and birth control methods without parental consent. They are several "non-pill" birth control methods available such as the Depo Provera shot, Nuva Ring (vaginal ring) and Ortho Evra patch. We also offer foams and condoms.
Remember, though, that the best way to prevent pregnancy is to not have sex. This is called abstinence. For many reasons, the best and most responsible thing to do is to save sex for a long-term, committed relationship such as marriage.
If you are determined to have sex, be aware that unwanted pregnancy is just one risk. Many diseases -- sexually transmitted diseases or infections (STDs or STIs) – can be transmitted during sex. Learn more about STDs/STIs at: STDs/STIs.
Learn about how to have safe sex at: Safe Sex Tips.
# 127
Say a 17 year old girl thinks she is pregnant and she comes in to do a pregnancy test and wellness check-up, will the health department call her parents or will it be kept confidential?
We would not contact the parents. Under the federal Title X (10) guidelines, we are required to see teens when they seek family planning service without parental consent.
# 124
My boyfriend and I have been having sex a lot lately. He doesn't use a condom, he pulls out, and he try's to be safe. Last time we had intercourse was on Sunday morning and he didn't pull out in time. I'm not on any type of birth control, I didn't use douching, or anything. I don't know what to do. What is the best idea for me to do?
Plan B, also known as emergency contraception, can be used up to 72 hours post intercourse. Emergency contraception can aid in preventing unintended pregnancy. This service is offered as a walk in service at your local health department.
Also, see the answer to #115 below.
# 102
I think that I might have an STD! What should I do??
If you think you might have an STD, and you are currently involved in a sexual relationship, it is your responsibility to protect both yourself and your partner or partners from further infection. You should talk to your partner or partners about why you're worried, get tested at your local health department, and stop having sex until you know what's up.
If you are determined to have sex, start practicing safer sex; but, safer sex isn't 100% safe, particularly for diseases that spread skin to skin.
Note: You should start practicing safer sex even if you think you might have already exposed your partner to an STD. Not every disease is transmitted every time you have sex, so it is never too late to start being safe.
Tips for Having Safe Sex