Birth Control and the HPV Vaccine for Girls with Special Needs
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What are the options for birth control?
Besides preventing unwanted pregnancy, contraceptive medication is useful in getting your daughter’s period on a reliable schedule, Dr. Salvatore says. This can ease the stress around the issue and help parents and child better prepare for the physical and hormonal changes that come with it each month.
If your child is unable to take an oral contraceptive, or if you're interested in learning about a birth control choice that will delay your child's menstruation, ask your doctor about injectable options such as Lupron and Depo-Provera.
Are there any risks to my child taking birth control?
If you opt for a birth control option that delays or pauses your child's menstruation, make sure it’s under the care of a gynecologist, Dr. Salvatore says. "Women get their period because they need to shed the uterine lining. It's important that the menses occur—the point is not to stop it but to teach a child how to take care of it."
Where can I turn for help?
"Don't be afraid to ask health care providers these questions," Dr. Salvatore says. "It's something you're not going to find on the Internet—other than maybe in support groups—but it's important to have the discussion."
Also see:
10-Point Checklist to Prepare for Your Daughter's First Period
