Contraception
The Pill
Description: A pill composed of synthetic hormones that stops the ovary from releasing an egg- women will not ovulate.
Effectiveness : over 99% Obtained: Must have a prescription
through a gynecologist or family planning clinic.
The Pill (continued)
Possible Side Effects: Nausea, breast tenderness, weight gain, dangerous if you are a smoker
• Do not use someone else’s pills• Normal menstrual cycles still occur.• Helps regulate periods and reduce
complications (cramps, pms)• Must be taken everyday at the same
time!
Spermicides
Description: Act as physical barrier that contain sperm-killing chemical
Effectiveness: 78%
Obtain: Over-the-counter at drug store or supermarket
Possible Side Effects: May cause irritation
• Must be inserted deep in the vagina and must be used every time intercourse occurs
• May provide some protection against STDs.
Condom
Description: Placed over an erect penis. It prevents semen from entering the vagina
Effectiveness: 85%
Obtained: Over-the counter at drug store or supermarket
Possible side effects: Slight possibility of breakage or leakage
• Be careful opening package• Do not store condoms in wallet or
places exposed to extreme temperatures
• The rim of the condom must be held after intercourse so that the condom does not slip off as the penis is withdrawn
Diaphragm
Description: Large rubber cap which covers the cervix. Must be used with spermicide.
Effectiveness: 85%
Obtained: Through gynecologist or family clinic
Possible Side Effects: May be awkward to insert and remove
• Can be inserted up to 2 hours before intercourse
• Must be left in place for 6 hours after intercourse
Cervical Cap
Description: Small rubber cap that covers the cervix. Must be used with spermcide.
Effectiveness: 85%
Obtained: Through gynecologist or family clinic
Possible Side Effects: Can be awkward to insert and remove
• Can be inserted up to 2 hours before intercourse
• Must be left in place for 6 hours afterwards
I.U.D.
Description: Intrauterine device that is thought to somehow interfere with the sperm’s ability to reach the egg or with a fertilized egg’s ability to implant
Effectiveness: 97%
Obtained: Inserted by a gynecologist. Once inserted, may prevent pregnancy for several years.
Possible Side Effects: Can cause increased bleeding and cramps.
• Not recommended for women who have not had families.
• Pelvic inflammatory disease. (PID).
Sponge
Description: A sperm barrier treated with spermicide. The sponge physically stops the sperm and the chemical kills them.
Effectiveness: 85%
Obtained: Over the counter at the drug store or supermarket
Possible Side Effects: The chemicals may cause irritation.
• May be difficult to remove
ABSTINENCE
Description: No intercourse
Effectiveness: 100%
** This is the only 100% effective method of birth control**
Withdrawal
Description: The penis is pulled out of the vagina prior to ejaculation. Ejaculation occurs outside of the vagina
Effectiveness: Less than 75%• VERY risky method b because if even a
tiny drop of semen comes in contact with vaginal fluid, pregnancy can occur. Does not protect against STDs.
RhythmDescription: Intercourse is avoided during
ovulation.
Effectiveness: Less than 75%
The female keeps track of menstrual cycle on a calendar.
*It is difficult to determine when ovulation occurs. Therefore this is a risky method of birth control, especially for teenagers.