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Choosing
a Method
There are many methods of preventing pregnancy. It can be confusing
to decide which method of contraceptive might work best for you. We
are happy to discuss your options with you and help you make an informed
decision. It's helpful to explore more than one method-your first choice
may change during your reproductive years. To decide which method to
use now, ask yourself:
•Is
abstinence my first choice at this time? Why or why not?
•How important is it that I not become pregnant right now?
•How effectively does this method prevent pregnancy?
•Do I need protection from sexually transmitted diseases?
•Does this method fit my lifestyle?
•Is it a safe method for ME?
•Are the possible side effects acceptable to me?
•What does it cost to use this method?
•Is this a method acceptable to me AND my partner?
Effectiveness
Some methods of birth control are nearly 100% effective in preventing
a pregnancy and can be easy to use. All methods of birth control become
less effective if the individual does not use the method CORRECTLY.
When
choosing a birth control method ask,
"How effectively will I use this method?"
Birth Control Choices
ABSTINENCE, the most effective form of Birth Control, is a way of avoiding pregnancy and STI that all people will use at some time in their life. It involves choosing NOT to have oral, anal, or vaginal sexual intercourse. People choose abstinence for many reasons.
HORMONAL
METHODS
change a woma
n's
menstrual cycle to prevent pregnancy.
EFFECTIVENESS
Oral Contraceptive (Birth Control Pill) 97-99%
Depo-Provera Injection 99.7%
NuvaRing
98-99%
Ortho Evra "The Patch" 99%
BARRIER METHODS
prevent sperm from fertilizing an egg. EFFECTIVENESS
Diaphragm with spermicide 82-94%
Cervical Cap with spermicide 64-91%
Condoms for men 88-97%
Condoms for women 79-95%
Spermicides (cream, jelly, film, suppositories) 79-94%
INTRAUTERINE
DEVICE (IUD) creates an environment in the uterus which
interferes with sperm's ability to fertilize an egg. 98-99% effective.
NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING (Fertility Awareness) involves learning to observe and interpret menstrual cycle changes that indicate fertility and avoiding intercourse or using barrier methods during the fertile time. 80-99% effective.
STERILIZATION is permanent birth control. Clients considering VASECTOMY (for men) or TUBAL LIGATION (for women) receive information, counseling and referral to a physician who can do the sterilization procedure. Some patients may qualify for financial assistance.
"What
if my method fails?"
The "Morning After Pill" is an emergency contraceptive that
can lower the risk of pregnancy. Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECP) may
be considered for any woman who has had unprotected intercourse or a failure
in her birth control method within the last 72 hours, and definitely does
not want to be pregnant. Please call if you are worried about the possibility
of pregnancy and would like to consider emergency contraceptive pills.
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