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Top 10 Myths About Safe Sex and Sexual Health

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9 of 13

MYTH: IUD birth control is not safe for use in adolescents

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are small objects inserted through the cervix and placed in the uterus to prevent pregnancy for up to 12 years. Because you don't need to take a pill every day when using an IUD, it can be a convenient and long-term way to prevent pregnancy.

Outdated information suggested that IUDs may increase the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease in women under 18.

But as of 2007, ACOG has said that IUDs are a safe and highly effective birth-control method in most adults as well as adolescents—a population at particular risk for unintended pregnancy.

Next: MYTH: If you get the HPV shot you're safe from cervical cancer

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