on the pill at 13

[sweetheart]

Does anyone know of any, if any, health risks associated with being on the pill at the age of 13?

[pamnez]

Why would a thirteen year old want to go on the pill? Sex is illegal until you are sixteen.

[georgit79]

I went on the pill quite early because of my skin, but not as early as 13. Are there medical reasons for it, or is it for contraception? Because if it is for contraceptive purposes, I agree that you really shouldn't be having sex yet.

[ali_alic]

One of the health risks would be your dad finding out!!

[MrsCheeks]

You will have to have smear tests once you go on the pill as it is a contraceptive first and foremost. Also the longer you are on the pill the more likely you are in later years to become susseptible (sp) to osteoporosis (brittle bones). You will also be advised to take at least a 12mth break from the pill after a certain length of time - usually 10yrs - so that your body's natural hormone balance can be restored.

[Casey]

Go down to your local Family Planning clinic and have a chat to a nurse. They are usually more than happy to help and will advise you on what's best to do. I have not heard that there are any side effects with taking the pill at a young age, but as already said, it is not advisable to be having sex at such a young age. But after all said and done, it is a personal decision and if this is the case then you are being quite sensible in considering the contraceptive pill. But be aware that the pill will NOT keep you from getting sexually transmitted diseases. So extra precaution is strongly advisable if you are sexually active.

[Casey]

I have just re-read the question, I have presumed that you (sweetheart) are the 13 yr old. Sorry if this was just a hypothetical question!

[sweetheart]

Sorry, I should have explained better. I'm 20 now, but I remember being on the pill (for a few months only) when I was about 13. It was for medical reasons and because I was so young (and stupid) I didn't question it. I'm just worried now and thinking will it affect me in the future? Ali Alic, i've not noticed you post anything of use to anyones question. I'm sorry if you find me being offensive but you're comments are not very nice in each case and go against the purpose of this site.

[nicnicnic]

I went on the pill for medical reasons at thirteen. I was told that as long as you dont smoke eat healthy etc, there are no long term health implications of being on it at that age as opposed to being older. It shouldnt affect your fertility or anything so dont worry.

[secretspirit]

I think that technically if you've been on the pill long term you are *slightly* more at risk of breast cancer and blood clots, especially if you smoke as well. It does however give protection from some pelvic infections and ovarian cancer, which is very hard to spot and not screened for so that could be a benefit. Also they say that as you are not releasing eggs while on the pill it means that when you stop taking it to have a family the good quality ones are still 'stored up'.