New Study Demonstrates Need for Dual Use of Condoms and Birth Control for Teens

NEW YORK, NY — A new study in JAMA Pediatrics today found that teens who use long-acting reversible contraception,  IUDs and implants, were 60 percent less likely to use condoms than teens who use the Pill.

Statement from Leslie Kantor, PhD, MPH, Vice President of Education at Planned Parenthood Federation of America:

“This study underscores the need to promote dual use of birth control and condoms--as Planned Parenthood does every day through its education programs and health services.”

“As the nation’s largest provider of sex education, Planned Parenthood works every day to reduce the number of sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancies and keep people healthy. At Planned Parenthood, we strongly emphasize the importance of dual use of condoms with other birth control methods with our patients in health centers and in our public education efforts.

“We offer every woman the full range of contraceptive options and information to help her make an informed decision about which method is best for her, and stress that using condoms correctly and consistently provides the best protection against STDs. We hope that this study serves as a wake up call that we can and must do better in giving young people the education and motivation they need.”

Planned Parenthood provides education and outreach to 1.5 million people every year in schools and communities across the country, which gives young people the information and skills they need to prevent STDs and unintended pregnancy. Planned Parenthood is also committed to reaching people wherever they are with information and health care. Planned Parenthood’s websites in English and Spanish provide accurate, nonjudgmental information about sexual and reproductive health to 60 million visitors each year, our digital tools for teens and young adults include a variety of engaging information to help people make responsible decisions and Planned Parenthood’s innovative Chat/Text program is open 91 hours per week and has served 500,000 users.

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Planned Parenthood is the nation’s leading provider and advocate of high-quality, affordable health care for women, men, and young people, as well as the nation’s largest provider of sex education. With over 650 health centers across the country, Planned Parenthood organizations serve all patients with care and compassion, with respect and without judgment. Through health centers, programs in schools and communities, and online resources, Planned Parenthood is a trusted source of reliable health information that allows people to make informed health decisions. We do all this because we care passionately about helping people lead healthier lives.