The present sets its own pace, and in the middle of our daily routines we can forget what really matters. By the time we pause to reflect, it can already be too late. Health is the most important part of anyone’s life, and for women reproductive health is central. Unprotected sex and casual partners in youth can cause problems over time, including infertility. Today’s young people need to understand sexual health, protection methods, and personal responsibility. For a detailed discussion of contraception and more, here is a conversation with Tatyana Tatarchuk, Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor, and Deputy Director of the Institute of Pediatrics, Obstetrics, and Gynecology at the Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine.
Can you explain contraception in simple terms for young people?
In short, contraception is the prevention of pregnancy. Put simply, it means using methods to avoid conception. The word “contraception” literally means “against fertilization.”
Viewed another way, contraception is one of the most effective ways to reduce abortions. In real life, when a young woman is unprepared for pregnancy or not ready emotionally, she may resort to abortion, which can cause psychological trauma and physical consequences. Contraception helps women avoid unwanted pregnancies and make deliberate choices about when to have children, at what age, and under what circumstances.
Is contraception only used in modern society?
Today, women participate on an equal footing with men in education and the workplace. They pursue degrees, careers, and personal projects, and an unplanned pregnancy can derail those plans. That makes choosing effective contraception an important option for many women.
What contraceptives are suitable for young women who haven’t given birth, have irregular periods, and no steady partner?
For someone without a steady partner, barrier methods like condoms are the most appropriate choice. They prevent pregnancy and protect against sexually transmitted infections. For young women, normal hormonal balance typically establishes by about age 22, which helps build adequate local immunity. The body has systems to protect against infections; if a woman’s local immunity is strong, she is less likely to become ill after exposure. A regular two-phase menstrual cycle that supports normal local immunity generally develops before age 22. Ancient Roman lore held that a girl who remained untouched until 22 was under Venus’s protection; today there is scientific evidence about age-related development of reproductive and immune systems that relates to this idea.
It’s no secret that many young people start having sex early, and the risks go beyond unwanted pregnancy. Human papillomavirus (HPV), for example, can increase the risk of cervical cancer if sexual activity begins in the mid-teens and protection is lacking. Other infections, like chlamydia and ureaplasma, can trigger inflammatory processes that are linked to conditions such as early uterine fibroids and endometriosis.
That’s why barrier methods should be a priority for young people. If a couple has a steady partner and both have had medical exams, they can consider additional options. Hormonal contraceptives are the most thoroughly studied, and specialists can choose the right one for each age group. Many studies examine how different contraceptives affect a woman’s body — including vascular, nervous system, and liver effects — so after a clinical assessment a doctor can recommend the best option.
Does that mean hormonal methods shouldn’t be chosen independently?
Start with a consultation. After that, visit the doctor at least once a year. But the first step is to consult a specialist to determine the best method.
Is there a 100% method of preventing unplanned pregnancies?
Modern contraceptives can offer up to 99.9% protection, but only when used correctly.
How can we spread accurate information about contraception among young people?
We know smoking is harmful, yet people smoke; we know alcohol can be harmful, yet people drink. Premarital sexual relationships are common today and don’t always lead to pregnancy. Contraception should be seen as a practical, safe response to contemporary realities. Attitudes toward hormonal methods vary, which is why medical consultation is important: without it, someone might pick the wrong drug, dose, or regimen. Many doctors can provide sound advice, but young people don’t always seek it out. Public opinion isn’t fully ready for open conversations, so interviews like this aim to share accurate information.
If a young woman becomes sexually active, doesn’t plan to get pregnant, has one partner, and wants a hormonal contraceptive, she can pursue that option — but she must see a doctor and confirm that her partner is healthy. Young men often skip medical checkups, which raises issues of responsibility. Untreated male sexually transmitted infections in youth can lead to prostatitis, erectile problems, and infertility later. Today male infertility is comparable to female infertility and in some places growing more common. Men’s hormonal balance and immunity mature by about age 25, so both partners need to be aware of infections and take precautions. There should be a culture of sexual health, just like there is a culture of hygiene.
What are the contraindications for contraceptives?
There are no contraindications for barrier methods. Intrauterine devices are generally not suitable for very young people. Hormonal methods are contraindicated for those with certain liver diseases or significant varicose veins, and smokers should be cautious. Contraindications for hormonal contraception are more common in older individuals; for young people, the main consideration is whether they have a steady partner. Without one, barrier methods are the appropriate choice.
Sometimes girls take hormonal contraceptives to treat acne, even without a steady partner. In those cases, it’s important to identify the underlying cause of acne by consulting the right specialist.
Is the natural method of contraception suitable for young people?
The natural method can be effective, but it requires a regular cycle, a single partner, and consistent attention. Not every young woman in a fast-paced life tracks her body closely — with busy schedules, work, and social life, it’s easy to forget to monitor a cycle. Still, the natural method is safe and inexpensive when used correctly.
Who should bear more responsibility in a relationship, the man or the woman?
Traditionally, many cultures emphasize male lineage and responsibility for procreation. Personally, as a mother of two sons, I believe men should carry strong moral and ethical responsibility toward women. Boys should be raised to respect women, not just as potential mothers of their children but as whole people. Treat a woman as you would your own mother — would anyone harm their mother? That perspective guided how I raised my children.
Women also must care for their health and think about the future. In educated circles, people are increasingly valuing emotional connection as much as physical intimacy. Many girls preserve their virginity by choice, and young men often respect that. That can be healthy.
From a scientific viewpoint, relationships often develop in three phases: platonic interest — watching movies, reading, exploring a city together; erotic interest — holding hands, cuddling, embracing; and sexual intimacy. Experiencing all three stages can lead to a fuller understanding of intimate relationships. If a couple has trouble in the sexual sphere, the other two areas can sustain the relationship. But if a 15-year-old’s first intimate encounter is purely sexual, she may miss the earlier stages and have a different perspective on relationships in adulthood.
So, do you believe modern youth are under-educated about relationships?
Absolutely. Men complain about women and women complain about men. Many men ask, “Where can I find a decent woman today?” — but often a decent partner is right in front of them. Love people as they are and help them grow. A woman shouldn’t wait for a prince to solve everything; understand that people have strengths and flaws, and that awareness should start in childhood. Family has been my priority, and the greatest compliment I ever received came from my sons: “Mom, you’re such a great mom!”
What advice would you give girls as future mothers to maintain reproductive health?
Keep psychological balance and avoid chronic stress. Maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle and proper nutrition. Going out and enjoying nightlife is normal, but don’t overdo it. Maximize positive emotions. Keep body weight in a healthy range — being underweight, overweight, or experiencing constant weight swings can harm a developing hormonal system.
Prevent sexually transmitted infections to protect reproductive health; these problems don’t happen “just like that.” The components of a healthy lifestyle are straightforward, and following them supports a healthier next generation.
