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| Safer Sex & Birth Control Methods |
Overview
What is birth control?
Birth control, also known as contraception, is any method used to prevent pregnancy. Most women can become pregnant from the time they start their
menstrual periods until they are in their late 40s. Birth control allows a woman or a couple to choose whether or when to have a child.
Which birth control method should I use?
When choosing a method, you might first consider how reliable it is and whether it fits your lifestyle. For example, if you are a single woman who would be
devastated by an unwanted pregnancy you may want a highly effective birth control method. Likewise, you might reject a method, such as the
diaphragm, that interrupts sex if realistically you are not likely to consistently use it. Alternately, a barrier method might be a good choice if you have a
relationship in which you can comfortably allow for its use.
Available methods include:
Barrier Methods
Barrier methods, such as condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps, sponges, and spermicides. Spermicides and condoms when used alone are not
very reliable and should be used together or along with another method to increase their effectiveness. Condoms should always be used if you are at
risk for a sexual transmitted disease.
The Male Condom
A diaphragm is a soft rubber dome that has a covered
flexible spring at the outer edge. Diaphragms are
used in conjunction with spermicidal gels or
spermicidal creams. The diaphragm keeps the
contraceptive cream or gel close to the cervix. This
prevents sperm from entering the uterus, thereby
reducing the chances of pregnancy. With correct use
of the diaphragm and contraceptive gel, this method
of birth control is considered approximately 94%
effective in pregnancy prevention. The effectiveness
decreases when the diaphragm and spermicide are
not used properly.
A diaphragm can last for 2-3 years, but it should be observed for any rips or holes prior
to each use. This can be done by stretching the diaphragm while holding it up against
light.
A doctor will examine you and size a diaphragm for your body. The diaphragm is put
into place prior to intercourse, and is removed 6-8 hours after intercourse. The
diaphragm shouldn't interfere with sexual activity and can remain in place during
urination and bowel movements. One can shower or bathe while the diaphragm is in
place.
Hormonal Methods
Hormonal methods, which include pills, shots, rings, and patches, are very reliable means of birth control. Hormonal methods use two basic formulas: a
combination of estrogen and progestin or progestin only. Each type has side effects but may also have benefits. They can cause nausea, irregular
periods, and headaches, but they can also lessen heavy periods and cramping. Progestin-only pills, also called "mini pills," must be taken at about the
same time every day to be effective.
For more information on safer sex and birth control, please contact your physician, local health department or local Planned Parenthood.
Return to Sexual Health
What is birth control?
Birth control, also known as contraception, is any method used to prevent pregnancy. Most women can become pregnant from the time they start their
menstrual periods until they are in their late 40s. Birth control allows a woman or a couple to choose whether or when to have a child.
Which birth control method should I use?
When choosing a method, you might first consider how reliable it is and whether it fits your lifestyle. For example, if you are a single woman who would be
devastated by an unwanted pregnancy you may want a highly effective birth control method. Likewise, you might reject a method, such as the
diaphragm, that interrupts sex if realistically you are not likely to consistently use it. Alternately, a barrier method might be a good choice if you have a
relationship in which you can comfortably allow for its use.
Available methods include:
Barrier Methods
Barrier methods, such as condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps, sponges, and spermicides. Spermicides and condoms when used alone are not
very reliable and should be used together or along with another method to increase their effectiveness. Condoms should always be used if you are at
risk for a sexual transmitted disease.
The Male Condom
A diaphragm is a soft rubber dome that has a covered
flexible spring at the outer edge. Diaphragms are
used in conjunction with spermicidal gels or
spermicidal creams. The diaphragm keeps the
contraceptive cream or gel close to the cervix. This
prevents sperm from entering the uterus, thereby
reducing the chances of pregnancy. With correct use
of the diaphragm and contraceptive gel, this method
of birth control is considered approximately 94%
effective in pregnancy prevention. The effectiveness
decreases when the diaphragm and spermicide are
not used properly.
A diaphragm can last for 2-3 years, but it should be observed for any rips or holes prior
to each use. This can be done by stretching the diaphragm while holding it up against
light.
A doctor will examine you and size a diaphragm for your body. The diaphragm is put
into place prior to intercourse, and is removed 6-8 hours after intercourse. The
diaphragm shouldn't interfere with sexual activity and can remain in place during
urination and bowel movements. One can shower or bathe while the diaphragm is in
place.
Hormonal Methods
Hormonal methods, which include pills, shots, rings, and patches, are very reliable means of birth control. Hormonal methods use two basic formulas: a
combination of estrogen and progestin or progestin only. Each type has side effects but may also have benefits. They can cause nausea, irregular
periods, and headaches, but they can also lessen heavy periods and cramping. Progestin-only pills, also called "mini pills," must be taken at about the
same time every day to be effective.
For more information on safer sex and birth control, please contact your physician, local health department or local Planned Parenthood.
Return to Sexual Health
A condom is made of latex, plastic, or animal
tissue and is a sheath that fits over the
penis. Many words are used to describe a
condom, including a rubber or a safe. A
condom works by preventing sperm from
ejaculate from entering a woman's vagina.
The male condom not only provides a
method of birth control, but also protects
against sexually transmitted diseases. When
used properly, male condoms are
considered 98% effective in preventing
pregnancy.
tissue and is a sheath that fits over the
penis. Many words are used to describe a
condom, including a rubber or a safe. A
condom works by preventing sperm from
ejaculate from entering a woman's vagina.
The male condom not only provides a
method of birth control, but also protects
against sexually transmitted diseases. When
used properly, male condoms are
considered 98% effective in preventing
pregnancy.
The female condom is made of polyurethane and is worn by a
women during intercourse. It completely lines the vagina and partly
covers the perineum, helping both to prevent pregnancy and
provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases. One ring
lies inside the vagina, while the other ring, on the open edge,
remains outside the vagina and covers the perineum, allowing
protection for the labia and base of the penis during intercourse.
The female condom doesn't contain spermicide and should not be
used at the same time as a male latex condom. There is lubricant
on the inside of the female condom, and additional silicone based
lubricant is often used with the female condom.
The rates of effectiveness of the female condom vary according to
how long a period a person has used it and whether it's used
every time a woman has intercourse. Generally, it is considered
effective just over 80% of the time, when used properly.
The female condom is not difficult to use, but it takes some
practice to become used to it. It is advised that women practice
inserting the female condom and removing it before they use it
during sexual activity.
women during intercourse. It completely lines the vagina and partly
covers the perineum, helping both to prevent pregnancy and
provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases. One ring
lies inside the vagina, while the other ring, on the open edge,
remains outside the vagina and covers the perineum, allowing
protection for the labia and base of the penis during intercourse.
The female condom doesn't contain spermicide and should not be
used at the same time as a male latex condom. There is lubricant
on the inside of the female condom, and additional silicone based
lubricant is often used with the female condom.
The rates of effectiveness of the female condom vary according to
how long a period a person has used it and whether it's used
every time a woman has intercourse. Generally, it is considered
effective just over 80% of the time, when used properly.
The female condom is not difficult to use, but it takes some
practice to become used to it. It is advised that women practice
inserting the female condom and removing it before they use it
during sexual activity.
The cervical cap is a latex,
dome-shaped device that fits over the
cervix. There is a groove on the
inside of the cap that creates a seal
and allows the cervical cap to stay in
place, which is aided by the vaginal
wall. The cap is often used with a
spermicide cream or gel. Six months
prior to fitting, a pap smear will be
taken. It is essential to be fitted
correctly for a cervical cap to effectively
prevent pregnancy. The cervical cap
acts as a barrier and blocks the
sperm from passing the cervix from
the vagina. This prevents the sperm
from reaching the uterus, thus
preventing pregnancy. The cervical cap can be in place for 48 hours,
offering an advantage of spontaneous sexual activity. It can be a good
alternative for those who have difficulty using a diaphragm. However,
the cap can't always be fitted effectively to every shape and size of
cervix and it is possible to dislodge the cap during sexual intercourse.
The cap is removed within 48 hours after intercourse. This enables
the vagina to naturally promote cleansing. The cervical cap is
considered to be 91% effective when used properly. The cap is
generally considered less effective for those who have had more than
one vaginal birth. Using the cervical cap effectively demands correct
placement and consistent use.
| The contraceptive sponge is a small, pillow-shaped polyurethane sponge that contains a spermicide. There is a concave spot on one side of the sponge that fits over the cervix and acts both as a barrier for sperm and helps to keep the sponge in place during intercourse. The opposite side of the sponge has a small loop to assist in the sponge's removal after intercourse. The contraceptive sponge comes in one size and is available over the counter at most drugstores. The contraceptive sponge can be inserted up to 24 hours prior to intercourse, enabling spontaneous sex, and provides effective birth control if intercourse occurs more than once during that period. The sponge is removed 6 hours after intercourse. The sponge is often used in conjunction with other birth control methods, most often condoms. This adds a second element of pregnancy prevention, further decreasing the changes of pregnancy. The contraceptive sponge has several benefits. These include ease of use, affordability and comfort. As well, the sponge is available without a prescription and can be purchased at most drugstores. |
Often called "the Pill", birth control pills contain two
hormones - estrogen and progestin. Birth control pills work
by preventing the monthly release of an egg, making
pregnancy impossible. The Pill also prevents pregnancy by
thickening the mucus of the cervix, making it difficult for
sperm to reach both the uterus and fallopian tubes.
One pill is taken daily for 3 weeks, at which point, either the
woman stops taking a pill for a week or takes a pill without
hormones. It is during the fourth week while the pill is
stopped that a women menstruates.
Different kinds of birth control pills contain different
amounts of hormones. It is usually recommended that the
lowest possible dose required to be effective be taken.
Lower doses usually cause fewer potential side effects.
The birth control pill is considered 99.9% effective for those
who take it properly. Key to successful use of the Pill is
taking it every day and starting a new cycle of pills on time.
hormones - estrogen and progestin. Birth control pills work
by preventing the monthly release of an egg, making
pregnancy impossible. The Pill also prevents pregnancy by
thickening the mucus of the cervix, making it difficult for
sperm to reach both the uterus and fallopian tubes.
One pill is taken daily for 3 weeks, at which point, either the
woman stops taking a pill for a week or takes a pill without
hormones. It is during the fourth week while the pill is
stopped that a women menstruates.
Different kinds of birth control pills contain different
amounts of hormones. It is usually recommended that the
lowest possible dose required to be effective be taken.
Lower doses usually cause fewer potential side effects.
The birth control pill is considered 99.9% effective for those
who take it properly. Key to successful use of the Pill is
taking it every day and starting a new cycle of pills on time.
Birth Control Pill
Depo-Provera is an progestin contraceptive method
wherein injections are administered every 3 months. It
provides effective birth control by inhibiting ovulation
as a result of suppressing FSH (Follicle Stimulating
Hormone) and LH (Luteinizing Hormone) levels, by the
development of a more shallow endometrial lining and by
promoting the development of very thick cervical mucus
that is difficult for sperm to penetrate.
Depo-Provera is considered highly effective.
Effectiveness in the first year is around 99.7%.
wherein injections are administered every 3 months. It
provides effective birth control by inhibiting ovulation
as a result of suppressing FSH (Follicle Stimulating
Hormone) and LH (Luteinizing Hormone) levels, by the
development of a more shallow endometrial lining and by
promoting the development of very thick cervical mucus
that is difficult for sperm to penetrate.
Depo-Provera is considered highly effective.
Effectiveness in the first year is around 99.7%.
Usually, the first injection of Depo-Provera is administered during the first 5 days of the start
of a menstrual cycle. Another injection is administered every 3 months onward.
There are certain health conditions that may interfere with the effectiveness of Depo-Provera
or that may cause unwanted side effects. These should be discussed thoroughly with a
doctor after taking a complete medical history, having a pap smear and testing for any
sexually transmitted diseases.
of a menstrual cycle. Another injection is administered every 3 months onward.
There are certain health conditions that may interfere with the effectiveness of Depo-Provera
or that may cause unwanted side effects. These should be discussed thoroughly with a
doctor after taking a complete medical history, having a pap smear and testing for any
sexually transmitted diseases.
over time. Norplant is immediately effective for birth control if it is
implanted in the first 7 days of the menstrual cycle. Otherwise, it
becomes effective within 24 hours.
Norplant has proven to be a very effective method of birth control, with
effectiveness rates considered to be around 99%. The implants
usually stay in place for a period of 5 years, at which time a new set of
capsules can be implanted. Norplant has been shown to be most
effective for women whose weight is under 155 pounds. Norplant's
effectiveness decreases over time.
There are a variety of reasons why some women are not good
candidates for Norplant, and a complete medical history should be
considered by a doctor prior to the procedure.
implanted in the first 7 days of the menstrual cycle. Otherwise, it
becomes effective within 24 hours.
Norplant has proven to be a very effective method of birth control, with
effectiveness rates considered to be around 99%. The implants
usually stay in place for a period of 5 years, at which time a new set of
capsules can be implanted. Norplant has been shown to be most
effective for women whose weight is under 155 pounds. Norplant's
effectiveness decreases over time.
There are a variety of reasons why some women are not good
candidates for Norplant, and a complete medical history should be
considered by a doctor prior to the procedure.
Norplant requires a surgical
procedure using a local anesthetic
where non biodegradable silicone
rubber capsules are implanted
beneath the skin on the arm. The
implant process usually takes
under 10 minutes and is painless.
procedure using a local anesthetic
where non biodegradable silicone
rubber capsules are implanted
beneath the skin on the arm. The
implant process usually takes
under 10 minutes and is painless.
female hormone estradiol can be placed
in the vagina. It remains in place for 3 weeks
continuously, then it is removed for 1 week to
allow for a menstrual period. It continuously
releases low levels of the hormone into the
bloodstream for the entire 3 weeks.
There is currently one brand available, called
NuvaRing. It is about 99% effective in
preventing pregnancy, the same high
effectiveness as the other hormonal
methods of contraception.
As with any hormonal birth control method,
the NuvaRing does not protect against
sexually-transmitted infections. Always use a
latex or female condom with the NuvaRing to
reduce the risk of infection
in the vagina. It remains in place for 3 weeks
continuously, then it is removed for 1 week to
allow for a menstrual period. It continuously
releases low levels of the hormone into the
bloodstream for the entire 3 weeks.
There is currently one brand available, called
NuvaRing. It is about 99% effective in
preventing pregnancy, the same high
effectiveness as the other hormonal
methods of contraception.
As with any hormonal birth control method,
the NuvaRing does not protect against
sexually-transmitted infections. Always use a
latex or female condom with the NuvaRing to
reduce the risk of infection
NuvaRing
They're there to help you check that the IUD is in place and to help you
remove it. IUDs prevent pregnancy by stopping sperm from meeting with an
egg. Some also work by changing the lining of the uterus so that a fertilized
egg can't implant and thickening cervical mucous so that sperm can't enter
the uterus.
IUDs are more than 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy. This
means that out of 100 women who use an IUD for a year, on average only
one will become pregnant.
remove it. IUDs prevent pregnancy by stopping sperm from meeting with an
egg. Some also work by changing the lining of the uterus so that a fertilized
egg can't implant and thickening cervical mucous so that sperm can't enter
the uterus.
IUDs are more than 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy. This
means that out of 100 women who use an IUD for a year, on average only
one will become pregnant.
An intrauterine device (IUD) is a
device your doctor places inside your uterus
to prevent pregnancy. It's T-shaped, made of
soft, flexible plastic and is about the size of a
U.S. quarter.
Threads on the end of the IUD extend from
the opening of the uterus (cervix) into the
upper vagina. Neither you nor your partner
can feel them during intercourse.
device your doctor places inside your uterus
to prevent pregnancy. It's T-shaped, made of
soft, flexible plastic and is about the size of a
U.S. quarter.
Threads on the end of the IUD extend from
the opening of the uterus (cervix) into the
upper vagina. Neither you nor your partner
can feel them during intercourse.
reversible prescription method of
birth control. It is a in, beige,
plastic patch that sticks to the skin.
A new patch is placed on the skin
of the buttocks, stomach, upper
outer arm, or upper torso once a
week for three out of four weeks.
No patch is used in the fourth
week. The patch releases ynthetic
estrogen and progestin to protect
against pregnancy for one month.
birth control. It is a in, beige,
plastic patch that sticks to the skin.
A new patch is placed on the skin
of the buttocks, stomach, upper
outer arm, or upper torso once a
week for three out of four weeks.
No patch is used in the fourth
week. The patch releases ynthetic
estrogen and progestin to protect
against pregnancy for one month.
The combination of hormones works in two ways. Usually, it keeps the
ovaries from releasing an egg (ovulation). Less often it thickens the
cervical mucus, which prevents sperm from joining with an egg.
The patch is more than 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy.
Delaying or missing a weekly application or removing a patch too early
can result in pregnancy.
It is very important to remember that the patch does not protect against
sexually transmitted infections. Always use a latex or female condom
with the Patch to reduce the risk of infection.
ovaries from releasing an egg (ovulation). Less often it thickens the
cervical mucus, which prevents sperm from joining with an egg.
The patch is more than 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy.
Delaying or missing a weekly application or removing a patch too early
can result in pregnancy.
It is very important to remember that the patch does not protect against
sexually transmitted infections. Always use a latex or female condom
with the Patch to reduce the risk of infection.
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