I started taking birth control pills when I was in the seventh grade. This was confusing for thirteen-year-old me. I suddenly felt much more grown up but I also felt like I had a dirty little secret. I remember that even at this age, I was worried about what people would think of me if they found out I was on the pill. But why exactly did I care?

Whether you like or not, there is most definitely a negative connotation that comes tacked onto birth control, especially if you start at a young age. You might be thinking to yourself, why? isn't it just a medication? Well, you'd be right, but you forgot one important detail: birth control is without a doubt connected to sex. I've had my fair share of people question my integrity simply because I'm on the pill. I've even gotten a few that just assumed I was into sleeping around. I've even had some of my friends' moms question my life choices. Yes, moms. Here's the kicker: I wasn't taking it because I was sexually active. *gasp*

Shocking right? Birth control has non-contraceptive purposes?! Who knew?

I started birth control pills when they were recommended to me by my dermatologist to clear up my horrendous acne. Since my skin troubles stemmed from hormonal roots, it made perfect sense that I would take a hormone-based pill. The fact that my period was finally regular and predictable (and shorter!), I no longer had PMS symptoms and crippling cramps, my anemia improved and that my weight became steady were just added benefits. Did I mention that birth control also drastically decreases your chances of ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, endometriosis, and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome? Can you tell I'm a big fan?

Moral of the story: being on birth control doesn't make you a slut. Yeah, the whole 99.9 percent-effectiveness (when taken correctly and regularly) at preventing pregnancy thing is pretty cool, I agree, but it is much more than that. Also, who cares if you are using birth control for the main purpose, anyway? You're being responsible.

If you've been considering starting a birth control method, talk to your parents and your pediatrician, dermatologist, or gynecologist. I've had a ton of friends be too afraid to talk to their mom about it out of fear that they would be judged. Trust me, I know from experience that a mature conversation can go a long way. State your case. Be firm if you are sure of your decision. It's never too soon to talk about it (and other contraception, for that matter). They will always want you to be safe and healthy.

So whether you're on the pill, have a bar, an IUD, get monthly shots, or none of the above, live your life as the strong female that you are. Your body isn't anybody's business but your own.