Birth control and family planning

A
• B
• C
• D
• E
• F
• G
• H
• I
• J
• K
• L
• M
• N
• O
• P
• R
• S
• T
• U
• V
• W
• X
• Y
• Z

Before and after vasectomy	Cervical cap
Hormone-based contraceptives	Intrauterine device	Side sectional view of female reproductive system	The diaphragm
The male condom	Tubal ligation	Vaginal ring

Which form of birth control you choose depends on a number of different factors, including your health, how often you have sex, and whether or not you want children.

Contraception; Family planning and contraception

Here are some factors to consider when selecting a birth control method:

• Effectiveness -- How well does the method prevent pregnancy? Look at the number of pregnancies in 100 women using that method over a period of 1 year. If an unplanned pregnancy would be viewed as potentially devastating to the individual or couple, a highly effective method should be chosen. In contrast, if a couple is simply trying to postpone pregnancy, but feels that a pregnancy could be welcomed if it occurred earlier than planned, a less effective method may be a reasonable choice.
• Cost -- is the method affordable?
• Health risk -- What are the potential health risks? For example, birth control pills are usually not recommended for women over age 35 who also smoke.
• Partner involvement -- The willingness of a partner to accept and support a given method may affect your choice of birth control. However, you also may want to reconsider a sexual relationship with a partner unwilling to take an active and supportive role.
• Permanence -- Do you want a temporary (and generally less effective) method, or a long-term or even permanent (and more effective) method?
• Preventing HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) -- Many methods offer no protection against STIs. In general, condoms are the best choice for preventing STIs, especially when combined with spermicides.
• Availability -- Can the method be used without a prescription, provider visit, or, in the case of minors, parental consent?

---

---

BARRIER METHODS

Condoms

• A condom is a thin latex or polyurethane sheath. The male condom is placed around the erect penis. The female condom is placed inside the vagina before intercourse.
• A condom must be worn at all times during intercourse to prevent pregnancy.
• Condoms are available in most drug and grocery stores. Some family planning clinics offer free condoms. You do not need a prescription to get condoms.