Contraception (Birth Control) What you need to know.

Methods of Birth Control 1. Hormonal Birth Control Pill and Ring 2. Barrier Male Condom and Spermicide The female condom does not protect against the smallest of viruses such as HIV, and it cannot be used.

About Birth Control Methods MUST see a physician to get a prescription for ALL methods except: Spermicide, and male condom ONLY condoms prevent against Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Hormonal Methods How do they prevent pregnancy? Release hormones into bloodstream to keep the egg from ovulating

Hormonal Methods Advantages: Help to regulate menstrual cycle Can help prevent some reproductive disorders Do not interfere with spontaneity Disadvantages: Side effects may include irregular bleeding, changes in weight or appetite, headache, nausea, vomiting, and breast tenderness.

Birth Control Pill 28-day packs of female hormone or combination of hormones Take one pill at the same time every day 92% - 99% effective $15 - $50 per month

Ring Small ring filled with hormones that is put in the vagina Use one ring each month for three weeks 92% - 99% effective $15–$50 per month

Emergency Contraception (Plan B) Also known as the “morning after pill” Prevents or delays ovulation or irritates lining to stop implantation Can be used up to 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex, but the sooner the better! Not for regular use – emergency situations only! If begun within… 12 hours – 99% 1-3 days – 96-97%

Barrier Methods How do they prevent pregnancy? Keep the sperm from joining with the egg

Barrier Methods Advantages: Cannot be felt Does not affect a woman's natural hormones Disadvantages: Can be pushed out of place during sex Allergy to latex or polyurethane

Spermicide Foams, creams, and gels that kill sperm 79% - 85% effective Costs about $8 per package Increases effectiveness of condom

Female Condom Plastic pouch with flexible rings at each end 79% – 95% effective Costs about $3.60 ea. Reduces the risk of STI infection

Male Condom Thin latex or plastic sheath that covers the penis 85% - 98% effective Cost $1 or more each. Packs of three about $2 to $6. Packs of 12 - less than a $1 each. Available for free a some places

Benefits of Using Condoms Should be used for vaginal, anal and oral sex Easy to get - no legal age to buy condoms; no doctor visit or prescription needed Latex condoms are the most effective for preventing STI’s Use only water-based lubricants with condoms Can be used with all other birth control methods except the female condom

Disadvantages of Condoms People with latex allergies cannot use latex condoms and must use another type Polyurethane and animal skin condoms do not provide the same STI protection as latex Must interrupt sexual intimacy to put on condom Some people claim condoms reduce sensation

Special Advantage for Females The way a female's internal sex organs are shaped makes them 10 to 20 times more likely than men to get sexually transmitted infections. The cervix in pregnant women, young girls, and teen women is especially vulnerable to infection.

Important! No matter how old you are, it is very important to use condoms with your other method of birth control to reduce the risk for getting a sexually transmitted infection.

Beware of "Novelty" Condoms Some “novelty” condoms are not supposed to be used for pregnancy protection. Read labels on "novelty" condoms to be sure they protect against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.

Don't Let Embarrassment Become a Health Risk Don't be embarrassed by the thought of going into a store and asking for condoms. Be proud. Buying condoms says that you are responsible and that you accept your sexuality as a normal part of living.

FACT Nearly as many women as men buy and carry condoms. And many people use them — every time they have sexual intercourse.

Remember None of these methods of contraception are 100% effective against pregnancy. Anytime you have sex, you are at risk of the birth control method failing. Deciding to have sex is a big decision. Be sure you can handle the consequences of sexual activity when making that decision!

Want to Know More? www.plannedparenthood.org For up-to-date, clear, medically accurate information that helps you better understand your sexual health, visit: www.plannedparenthood.org