Contraception Birth Control Choices

Continuous Abstinence 100% effective in preventing pregnancy PREVENTS STD’S No medical or hormonal side effects; good way to postpone physical and emotional risks of sex May be difficult to abstain

Outercourse Nearly 100% effective REDUCES risk of HIV/STD’s – some STD’s can be spread skin to skin No hormonal side effects; can be safer if no fluids are exchanged Outercourse may lead to intercourse and sperm may come in contact with the vagina

NuvaRing 99% effective NOT effective against HIV/STD’s Protects against pregnancy for one month; does not require “fitting” by a doctor Side effects include bleeding, weight gain/loss, nausea and a condom is necessary to reduce the risk of HIV/STD’s

Depo-Provera 99.7 % effective NOT effective against HIV/STD’s Protects against pregnancy for up to 12 weeks Side effects may include weight gain, depression and headaches; must use condom to reduce risk of HIV/STD’s

Ortho Evra 92 – 99 % effective NOT effective against HIV/STD’s Protects against pregnancy for up to one month; no pill; nothing to insert before intercourse Risk of blood clots, possible irregular bleeding & nausea; may irritate skin; must use condom to reduce risk of HIV/STD’s

The Pill 95 – 99.9 % effective NOT effective against HIV/STD’s Protects against pregnancy when taken DAILY; less acne & menstrual cramping Must be taken daily; rare but serious health risks; must use condom to reduce risk of HIV/STD’s

Latex Condom 86 – 98 % effective with spermicide VERY good protection against HIV; reduces the risk of other STD’s Inexpensive & easy to buy Must be used correctly & consistently; spermicide may irritate or inflame skin; breakage

Diaphragm 80 – 94% effective NOT effective against HIV/STD’s No major health concerns; can last for several years Can be messy with allergies to latex or spermicide; can only be left in place for up to 24 hours; must be fitted

Female Condom 75 – 95% effective Female condom REDUCES the risk of HIV/STD’s Inexpensive & easy to buy; can be used by persons allergic to latex or spermicide May slip and irritate skin

Methods NOT recommended Sterilization IUD Withdrawal ( pulling out) Fertility Awareness ( rhythm method)

Have fun; have friends; but be SAFE!