Teen Health FAQ

Teenagers often have questions about pregnancy, contraception, periods, sexually transmitted infections and visiting a healthcare clinic. The answers below are based on questions we hear regularly from young women seeking reproductive healthcare.

Pregnancy Questions

Can I get pregnant the first time I have sex?

Yes. Pregnancy can happen any time unprotected sex takes place, including the first time. If sperm enters the vagina and an egg is released during your menstrual cycle, pregnancy is possible.

Can I get pregnant during my period?

Although the risk is lower, pregnancy can still occur during your period. Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for several days, and some women ovulate earlier than expected.

Can I get pregnant if he pulled out?

Yes. The withdrawal method is not a reliable form of contraception. Pregnancy can occur even if ejaculation does not happen inside the vagina because pre-ejaculate fluid may contain sperm.

When should I take a pregnancy test?

For the most accurate result, wait until you have missed a period. If your menstrual cycle is irregular or you are unsure when your period is due, testing at least two weeks after unprotected sex is recommended.

What should I do if my pregnancy test is positive?

The first step is not to panic. Book an appointment with a healthcare professional who can confirm the pregnancy with an ultrasound scan and discuss your options. Accurate information is important before making any decisions.

What are the early signs of pregnancy?

Common early signs include:

• A missed period
• Breast tenderness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fatigue
• Increased urination
• Mood changes

These symptoms can have other causes, so a pregnancy test is the best way to know for sure.

Contraception Questions

What is the best contraceptive for teenagers?

There is no single method that is best for everyone. The right choice depends on your health, lifestyle and personal preferences. Options include condoms, contraceptive pills, injections, implants and intrauterine devices (IUDs). A healthcare professional can help you choose the method that suits you best.

Can teenagers use an IUD?

Yes. Many teenagers are suitable candidates for an IUD. Both copper and hormonal IUDs provide highly effective, long-term contraception and do not require daily attention.

What happens if I miss a pill?

The answer depends on which pill you are taking and how many pills have been missed. Follow the instructions provided with your medication and consider using condoms until you are protected again. If you are unsure, seek medical advice as soon as possible.

What happens if I’m late for my injection?

A late contraceptive injection may reduce your protection against pregnancy. Depending on how late the injection is, you may need additional contraception and, in some cases, emergency contraception. Contact your healthcare provider for advice.

Which contraceptive methods protect against STIs?

Condoms are the only contraceptive method that help reduce the risk of both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. Other contraceptive methods prevent pregnancy but do not protect against STIs.

Periods and Menstrual Health

Are irregular periods normal?

Irregular periods are common during the first few years after menstruation starts. However, if your periods are very unpredictable, extremely heavy, very painful or stop for several months, a medical assessment may be helpful.

How painful should periods be?

Mild cramping is common. Period pain should not be so severe that it prevents you from attending school, participating in sport or carrying out normal daily activities.

How heavy is too heavy?

If you are soaking through pads or tampons every hour, passing large blood clots or bleeding for more than seven days, you should speak to a healthcare professional.

Why did my period stop?

Missed periods can occur for several reasons, including pregnancy, stress, significant weight changes, excessive exercise, illness or hormonal conditions. If your period has stopped unexpectedly, medical advice may be needed.

Can stress affect my period?

Yes. Emotional stress can affect hormone levels and may cause periods to become irregular, lighter, heavier or delayed.

When should I see a doctor about my periods?

You should seek medical advice if:

• Your periods are extremely painful
• Your bleeding is unusually heavy
• Your periods stop unexpectedly
• You have severe symptoms affecting daily life
• You are worried about changes in your cycle

STI Questions

Can I have an STI without symptoms?

Yes. Many sexually transmitted infections do not cause symptoms, especially in the early stages. A person can have an STI and pass it on without knowing.

Can I get an STI from oral sex?

Yes. Some STIs can be transmitted through oral sex, including gonorrhoea, chlamydia, herpes and HPV.

When should I get tested?

Testing should be considered if:

• You have symptoms
• You have a new sexual partner
• You have had unprotected sex
• Your partner has tested positive for an STI
• You are concerned about possible exposure

What symptoms should I look out for?

Possible symptoms include:

• Unusual vaginal discharge
• Pain when urinating
• Itching or irritation
• Pelvic pain
• Genital sores, ulcers or lumps
• Unusual bleeding

Some infections cause no symptoms at all.

Can STIs be treated?

Many STIs can be treated successfully, especially when diagnosed early. Some infections can be cured, while others can be managed with appropriate medical treatment.

Visiting a Women’s Health Clinic

What happens at my first appointment?

Your appointment will usually begin with a discussion about your medical history, symptoms or concerns. Depending on the reason for your visit, a healthcare professional may recommend a pregnancy test, ultrasound scan, STI testing or a discussion about contraception.

Do I need a parent with me?

No. In South Africa, young people aged 12 years and older have the right to access reproductive and sexual healthcare services without parental consent. This means you can visit a women’s health clinic, discuss contraception, have a pregnancy test, receive sexual health advice, and access other reproductive healthcare services without a parent or guardian present. Healthcare professionals are required to respect your privacy and confidentiality while ensuring that you receive appropriate medical care and support.

Will I need an examination?

Not always. Many consultations involve discussion and counselling only. If an examination is recommended, the healthcare professional will explain why it is needed and answer any questions you may have beforehand.

What should I bring to my appointment?

Bring:

• Details of any medication you are taking
• Information about your last menstrual period
• Any previous test results if relevant

Is my information confidential?

Healthcare professionals take patient confidentiality seriously. If you have concerns about privacy, discuss them with the clinic during your appointment so that you understand exactly how your information will be handled.

Why Is Sexual Health Education Important?

Accurate sexual health education gives teenagers the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their bodies, relationships and future. Unfortunately, many young people rely on information from friends, social media or the internet, which is not always accurate. Understanding topics such as contraception, pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), menstrual health and consent helps teenagers protect their health and seek medical advice when needed. At Reproductive Choices SA, we believe that access to reliable information is an important part of healthcare. By providing honest, evidence-based sexual health education, we aim to empower young people to make responsible decisions and access appropriate medical care when they need it.