1. Contraception (Birth Control)
What you need to know.

2. 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.

3. 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)

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

5. 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.

6. 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

7. 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

8. 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%

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

10. 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

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

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

13. 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

14. 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

15. 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

16. 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.

17. 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.

18. 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.

19. 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.

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

21. 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!

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