First, you should be applauded for planning ahead and understanding that birth control is an important tool in preventing pregnancy. Way to be mature! Second, it depends on the type of relationship you have with your parents. If you aren’t totally comfortable coming out and saying, “I’d like to get on birth control,” here are a few additional potential benefits of birth control that you COULD use to justify your interest in them.

• Combination birth control pills help with acne.

• Pills can help get your period regular (on a reliable schedule).

• Many types of birth control (pills, shot, implant) can help with cramps.

• Many types of birth control can help with period flow. In fact, it’s possible to use pills to get only 4 periods a year (and with reduced blood loss). People who get the Depo shot generally lose their periods entirely, while those who get the implant usually experience lighter if not eliminated period flow.