1. Positive Prevention: Birth Control Choices
TVUSD
AMERICAN RED CROSS

2. What are some reasons for
Abstinence
Means choosing NOT to have sex
It is the ONLY method that is 100% effective
It is your right to be in control of your body and say NO
What are some reasons for
choosing abstinence?
Reasons for choosing abstinence: religious beliefs, to avoid unwanted pregnancy, STI prevention, etc…

3. IUD What is it? Which partner uses it?
Effectiveness in preventing pregnancy?
Effectiveness in preventing the spread of HIV/STDs?
The Intrauterine Device is a thin plastic device inserted into the uterus to prevent sperm from joining with egg
Female
99%+
Not effective

4. Implanon What is it? Which partner uses it?
Effectiveness in preventing pregnancy?
Effectiveness in preventing the spread of HIV/STDs?
A thin, flexible plastic implant inserted in the arm that contains / releases a hormone that prevents ovulation
Female
99%+
Not effective

5. NuvaRing What is it? Which partner uses it?
Effectiveness in preventing pregnancy?
Effectiveness in preventing the spread of HIV/STDs?
A flexible plastic ring inserted in the vagina that releases hormones that prevent ovulation
Female
92-99%
Not effective

6. Depo-Provera What is it? Which partner uses it?
Effectiveness in preventing pregnancy?
Effectiveness in preventing the spread of HIV/STDs?
An injection of hormones that prevent ovulation
Female
97-99%
Not effective

7. Ortho-Evra Patch What is it? Which partner uses it?
Effectiveness in preventing pregnancy?
Effectiveness in preventing the spread of HIV/STDs?
A thin, beige patch worn on the skin that releases hormones that prevent ovulation
Female
92-99%
Not effective

8. Birth Control Pills What is it? Which partner uses it?
Effectiveness in preventing pregnancy?
Effectiveness in preventing the spread of HIV/STDs?
Prescription pills taken orally each day that release hormones that prevent ovulation
Female
92-99%
Not effective

9. Latex Condom (Male) What is it? Which partner uses it?
Effectiveness in preventing pregnancy?
Effectiveness in preventing the spread of HIV/STDs?
A latex barrier worn (unrolled) over an erect penis that prevents sperm from entering the vagina
Male
85-98%
Very effective!

10. Latex Condom (female) What is it? Which partner uses it?
Effectiveness in preventing pregnancy?
Effectiveness in preventing the spread of HIV/STDs?
A nitrile barrier worn inside the vagina that prevents sperm from entering the cervix
Female
79-95%
Reduces the risk

11. Diaphragm What is it? Which partner uses it?
Effectiveness in preventing pregnancy?
Effectiveness in preventing the spread of HIV/STDs?
A soft latex or silicone dome barrier inserted into the vagina that prevents sperm from entering the cervix
Female
84-94%
Not effective

12. Cervical Cap What is it? Which partner uses it?
Effectiveness in preventing pregnancy?
Effectiveness in preventing the spread of HIV/STDs?
A soft latex or silicone dome barrier inserted into the vagina that prevents sperm from entering the cervix
Female
71-86%
Not effective

13. Spermicide (non-oxynol-9)
What is it?
Which partner uses it?
Effectiveness in preventing pregnancy?
Effectiveness in preventing the spread of HIV/STDs?
A gel or foam inserted into the vagina prior to intercourse contains chemicals that destroy sperm
Female
71-85%
Not effective

14. Emergency Contraception
What is it?
Which partner uses it?
Effectiveness in preventing pregnancy?
Effectiveness in preventing the spread of HIV/STDs?
A pill containing hormones taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse that keeps the ovary from releasing the egg and thickens the cervical mucus in order to prevent fertilization
Female
89-95%
Not effective

15. Methods NOT RECOMMENDED for teens
Sterilization
Can’t necessarily be undone!
Also, no protection against STDs
Withdrawal (“pulling out”)
Sperm in the pre-ejaculate could result in fertilization
31% failure rate among teens!
Fertility Awareness (“rhythm method”)
Due to hormonal changes in the teenage years, ovulation dates are not always consistent and mistakes could lead to pregnancy

16. Final Remarks
BE PREPARED! Protecting yourself against STI’s and pregnancy is a shared responsibility
Know your partner’s sexual history
Alcohol & drugs can impair your decisions
If you think you might have sex, make sure you have condoms… and know how to use them correctly!
Irresponsible choices you make now can affect your health, and the health of your partner, for a long time
Not protecting yourself is a HUGE RISK!