Contraception (F.Y.I.- That means any thing or method used to prevent pregnancy)

Use: Female condoms fit inside a female’s vagina and provide some external protection. Not sold as commonly as male condoms Protection: % effective at preventing pregnancy and some STI’s Use: Male condoms fit over the penis or sex toy. Also, can be cut using scissors to form a dental damn Found in most pharmacies, gas stations, and grocery stores Protection: 85-98% effective at preventing pregnancy and some STI’s Female vs. Male Condom

Hormonal Methods 1.Oral Contraception 2. The Patch (OrthoEvra) 3. Contraceptive Vaginal Ring (NuvaRing) 4. Depo Provera 5. Implanon

Oral Contraceptives Use: Small pill taken orally every day Prescription required from a doctor 92 – 99% Effective at preventing pregnancy, no protection against STI’s The Patch Small patch releases hormones into bloodstream and is changed once a week Prescription required from a doctor 92 – 99% Effective at Preventing pregnancy, no protection against STI’s

NuvaRing Use: Hormonal ring placed around cervix, changed out every 4 weeks 92 – 99% Effective at preventing pregnancy, no protection against STI’s DepoProvera Use: Hormone shot given in buttocks or arm every 3 months by a doctor 97 – 99% Effective at preventing pregnancy, no protection against STI’s Both require a prescription from a doctor

Implanon Single rod implanted under skin in the upper arm releasing hormones for 3 years 99% Effective at preventing pregnancy

Emergency Contraception aka the Morning After Pill Should be used ONLY for emergencies with no birth control used during sex or a failed birth control method Pills should be started within 72 hours of having unprotected sex Around 75% effective at preventing pregnancy

Behavioral Methods 1.Coitus Interruptus (Withdrawal) “Pulling out” before a male ejaculates is NOT effective in preventing pregnancy or the transmission of STI’s due to the fact that pre-ejaculate can contain sperm 2. Abstinence - the only 100% effective protection against pregnancy

Douching- This does not prevent pregnancy and often can push sperm further into the vagina, increasing chances of conception Using Two Condoms- This will create more friction and increase the chance of both condoms breaking. First Time- A female CAN get pregnant during her first sexual encounter. Myths

Menstrual Cycle- Having sex during a female’s period does not guarantee protection Hot Tub- Having sex in a hot tub will not prevent pregnancy, nor does having sex in any other body of water Urinating- While urinating after sex is a good idea to decrease the chances of infection, it does not prevent pregnancy. Myths

For more information on methods of contraception, contact: ECU Student Health Service Campus Wellness