BIRTH CONTROL:
There are many different birth control methods available today. All of these birth control methods can help prevent pregnancy. Additionally some of these methods will help protect you from HIV infection and other STDs.
Which birth control Method is right for me?
Types of Birth Control
Hormonal
Birth control pills: There are the most common forms of birth control and there are several brands, choices, levels of hormones, and prices! Birth control pills are a synthetic form of the hormones progesterone and estrogen. They prevent ovulation by maintaining more consistent hormone levels. Without a peak in estrogen, then, the ovary doesn't get the signal to release an egg. No egg means no possibility for fertilization and pregnancy. They also thicken cervical mucus so the sperm cannot reach the egg, and make the lining of the uterus unreceptive to the implantation of a fertilized egg. Learn moreClick here for instructions on taking Birth Control Pills
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Birth Control Rings: Rings are essentially birth control pills in a different form. Patches must be changed weekly. Patches work best if you are under 160 pounds. Learn more
Birth Control Shots: Depo Provera is a birth control shot that is given every three months. Women may have irregular bleeding, constant bleeding, or the lucky ladies who have no periods while on Depo Provera. If you have constant bleeding on Depo Provera, the best thing is to wait for the shot to completely leave your system. This may take 6 or more months to have regular periods after an injection is given. New recommendations: only use the Depo Provera injections for 2 years maximum. Learn more
IUD: An Intrauterine Device (IUD) is a small object that is inserted through the cervix and placed in the uterus to prevent pregnancy. A small string hangs down from the IUD into the upper part of the vagina. The IUD is not noticeable during intercourse. IUDs can last 1-5 years. They work by changing the the the lining of the uterus and fallopian tubes affecting the movements of eggs and sperm and so that fertilization does not occur. Learn more
Single Rod Implant: Implenon is an implant which gets inserted on the inner aspect of the upper arm and lasts up to 5 years. Learn more
Emergency contraception is a safe and effective means of preventing pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. EC, also known as emergency birth control, has been available for more than 30 years. It contains hormones found in birth control pills and must be started within 120 hours after unprotected intercourse. Learn more
Non-Hormonal
Spermicide: Spermicide is a non-prescription barrier method of reversible birth control. It is available in a variety of contraceptive preparations, including creams, film, foams, jellies, and suppositories which are liquids or solids that melt after they are inserted. Learn moreDiaphragm: A latex cup coated with spermicidal cream or jelly. It is placed inside the vagina and used during intercourse to keep sperm from reaching the egg. It can be inserted well in advance of intercourse. The diaphragm must be fitted by a clinician. Learn more
Female condom: It is a polyurethane (plastic) pouch with flexible rings at each end. It is inserted deep into the vagina like a diaphragm. The ring at the closed end holds the pouch in the vagina. The ring at the open end stays outside the vaginal opening. Learn more
Male condom: A male condom is a thin sheath that covers the penis during intercourse and is made of one of the following materials; Rubber, plastic, or lambskin. Learn more
IUD (Copper): The Paraguard is a copper Intrauterine Device (IUD) that is a small object that is inserted through the cervix and placed in the uterus to prevent pregnancy. The IUD is not noticeable during intercourse. The Paraguard IUD can last up to 10 years. Learn more
Permanent Sterilization: Permanent sterilization is among the most frequently performed operations in the Untied States. There are many techniques described for this procedure, but most simply involve removing a portion of the fallopian tube and closing the intervening ends, thus providing a barrier between sperm and egg. Learn more