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• The rim of the condom must be held after intercourse so that the condom does not slip off as the penis is withdrawn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.