Birth Control Methods

Overview
Contraception is a very important key to sexual health and well-being. Did you know that the Center for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 25 percent of women who have intercourse without a form of birth control will become pregnant within one month and 85 percent will become pregnant within one year?

There are many methods of birth control to consider:
• Abstinence
• Male condoms
• Female condoms ("femidom")
• Contraceptive Sponge
• Depo-Provera or Lunelle injection
• Diaphragm
• Oral contraceptives ("The Pill")
• Spermicides
• NuvaRing
• Ortho Evra patch

There is also an IUD (Intrauterine Device) for those sensitive to hormones. It is a small plastic device inserted into the uterus that is often covered with copper. However, this is NOT recommended for teenagers because the uterus may be too small and more prone to pelvic inflammatory disease.

You can use the Rhythm Method, although it can be as low as 75 percent effective and does not prevent STDs. This consists of charting your menstrual cycle and other signs to predict unsafe days. It calls for periodic abstinence or condoms during "unsafe" days. It is NOT recommended for teenagers because it requires a very regular period, which is uncommon in young females.

Finally, there is something called the "withdrawal" method, although this is not technically a form of contraception. This method requires the male to remove his penis from the vagina before ejaculation. This is very ineffective because it does not account for the fluid released before ejaculation, which contains sperm.

If you have unprotected vaginal intercourse, you may need emergency contraception, known as Plan B. This can help prevent conception after unprotected vaginal intercourse by keeping the egg from joining with the sperm or implanting in the uterus. If you are 18 years of age or older, you can obtain this as an over-the-counter medicine. If you are under 18, this is only possible if you have transportation to a clinic or health care provider available confidentially and quickly. This method must be used as soon as possible. It should be used 24 to 48 hours after sex, although it may be effective up to 72 hours after. Also, it consists of a high dose of hormones, which can make teens very sick.

Before You Choose a Birth Control Method
Choosing a birth control method is a very personal decision, but one you might want to discuss with your sexual partner. To choose a birth control method, consider how well each one will work for you. Ask, "How effective is it? How will it fit into our lifestyle? How safe is it? Is it affordable? Does it protect us from sexually transmitted diseases?"

These are important questions that are worth taking some time to think about. Talk to your sexual partner or parent if you can.

Ask Your Physician
You CAN get a prescription for birth control without parental consent in the United States. You can also see a health care provider without anyone else knowing. Contact Planned Parenthood or your normal health care provider.