Birth Control Options for Teen Girls: Considerations & Risks

Question
I wanted to know what age is appropriate to began birth control and is the depo shot ok or harsh for a 12 year old just beginning her cycle?

Answer
Whenever a woman or girl is going to have sex is an appropriate time to begin birth control.

The depo shot may be too much for a 12 year old just beginning her cycle.  The depo shot lowers estrogen levels, and can cause decreased bone density.  In a 12 year old girl, the bones are developing.  Depo may be better than pregnancy, but since the need for birth control will go on for years, I would be hesitant to start a 12 year old girl on depo provera.