The less familiar female condom can be difficult to find in shops (it can be purchased online at www.condomania.com) and is more expensive than the male condom. It is 95% effective when used perfectly every time and 84% effective on average when accounting for human error. The female condom is inserted into the vagina before intercourse.
Emergency contraception is a high dose of the chemicals (hormones) that are used in birth control. They can be successful up to 72 hours after having unprotected sex. The two most commonly used forms of emergency contraception are called Prevent and Plan B.
Know the Different Options for Birth Control Abstinence – This is the safest method of birth control for obvious reasons. This method involves no intercourse (anal, vaginal and depending on the individual, oral) for some period of time. This method is most often related to views on marriage or religion, but can just be for personal reason (ex: if you prefer to be in a committed relationship, prevent STD’s or pregnancy). If abstinence is your chosen method of birth control, it is important to make this clear to your partner early in the relationship. Talk it through and try to understand his or her point of view, just as you want him or her to understand yours.
Pulling Out (Withdrawal/Coitus Interruptus) – This method requires a lot of self-control on the part of the guy. It is crucial that if you are practicing this method, the penis is removed before ejaculation. This is very risky because often, small amounts of semen (pre-cum) can leak out. Even a very small release of sperm can fertilize the egg and result in pregnancy. This method does not prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections or diseases (STIs and STDs). Practicing the pulling out method is just barely better than not using any form of birth control.
Spermicides – This form of birth control comes in many different types: suppository, foam, cream, insert, film and gels. Spermicides kill the sperm that are released into the vagina during ejaculation. For the suppositories, inserts and film – wait 15 to 30 minutes after applying them before sex. This is necessary to allow the body to melt the product. Gels and creams cost about $8.00 - $10.00, one dose of the insert, films or foam are $1.00, but are sold in packs of 3, 6, or more. Spermicides should be used along with another form of birth control such as a condom.
Depo Provera (the shot) – This is a shot given once every three months for $35.00 each visit. Though it does not provide protection from STDs, it is very effective in preventing pregnancy and regulating or controlling the period of women with very severe cramps and nausea. This is a very good method for people in a long-term, monogamous relationship who are tested regularly for STDs and who are confident in the faithfulness of their partner. (www.depo-provera.com)
Ortho Evra (the patch) – This is a small, band-aid like patch that releases hormones through the skin into the body. It is applied to the stomach, upper arm, back or buttocks once a week for three weeks a month. The patch comes in packs of three for $30 - $35 and the first dose comes with an extra patch in case one is lost or falls off. Though it does not provide protection from STDs, it is very effective in preventing pregnancy and regulating or controlling the period of women with very severe cramps and nausea. This is a very good method for people in a long-term, monogamous relationship who are tested regularly for STDs and who are confident in the faithfulness of their partner. (www.orthoevra.com)
Nuva Ring (the ring) – Using this method, the woman inserts a flexible rubber ring with self-releasing hormones into the vagina and leaves it in for three weeks. The ring is then removed to allow menstruation. This method costs about $30 to $35 per month. Though it does not provide protection from STDs, it is very effective in preventing pregnancy and regulating or controlling the period of women with very severe cramps and nausea. This is a very good method for people in a long-term, monogamous relationship who are tested regularly for STDs and who are confident in the faithfulness of their partner. (www.nuvaring.com)
Note: Getting birth control through your school (where it is possible) is often the cheapest way to get the brand that you need.
Know the Difference between Diaphragms and Cervical Caps
Both of these methods of birth control are rubber cups that are inserted into the vagina. They block the entrance to the cervix and come in different sizes to fit the varying body types of women (see your physician to be fitted for either). The diaphragm holds spermicides against the cervix in case sperm gets around its edge. The cervical cap suctions to the cervix in order to prevent sperm from escaping around the edge. Neither of the two methods provides protection from STDs and you must leave both in for six to eight hours after sex.
Stop the Rumors and Myths
- Douching after sexual intercourse will not prevent pregnancy
- Having sex in certain positions does not prevent pregnancy or decrease the chances of becoming pregnant
- Urinating after sex will not prevent pregnancy – but it will reduce the risk of urinary tract infections
- You CAN get pregnant the first time!