Contraception

How do I choose?

THINK ABOUT IT

Choosing a method of birth control is an important decision. There are many questions to think about in order to choose the method that works best for you. Before choosing a birth control method, ask yourself:

• How long do I want to postpone getting pregnant?
• Will I remember to take a pill?
• Will my partner and I use a barrier method (such as condoms) all the time?
• How comfortable am I touching my body . . . in order to use a diaphragm and/or foam?
• How do I feel about taking hormones (such as the Pill)?
• What amount of time am I willing to spend to make sure that I have my birth control when I need it?
• Condoms are the most effective way to protect people from getting sexually transmitted diseases or STDs. Will my partner and I be willing to use condoms in addition to the other birth control method I choose?

Choose a method that works for you and your life

After talking about the pros and cons, choose the method that works best for your lifestyle. It may take some experimenting to find a method that works best for you. Using effective birth control is an important way to improve your health before you have a baby by helping you plan your pregnancies. Talk to your medical team if you have any questions or concerns.

What are my options? Contraceptive methods

HORMONAL

A small amount of hormones is gradually released, preventing the ovaries from releasing an egg every month. There are many options to choose from

• Implant
• Patch
• The Pill
• Injection
• Vaginal ring

BARRIER

Sperm is blocked from reaching the egg.

• Condom, male Diaphragm
• Condom, female Cervical cap

IUD

A small plastic device shaped like a “T” is placed inside the uterus to keep sperm from joining with the egg.

OTHER CHOICES

• Spermicide
• Sterilization
• Withdrawal
• Abstinence

EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION

Pills that can help prevent pregnancy are taken after you have had sex and didn’t use birth control or after you have had sex and the method failed.