Birth control 2005.pdf

If you are sexually active and want to prevent pregnancy, there are many different types of birth control you and your partner can use. Selecting the birth control method that is right for you is a very personal decision. No birth control is right for everyone, so here are some questions to ask yourself that will help you make a choice: Do I want to prevent HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) as Right before sex, can I stop to use my birth control method? Do I understand how my birth control works and what side effects I Do I plan to have children in the future? If so, when? Can I remember to use my birth control method when I need it? How much does the birth control method cost? (Birth control can Do I want anyone to know that I am using a birth control method? often be free or low cost. Call the CHOICE Hotline for more Will my partner agree to use a birth control method? HORMONAL METHODS: These methods prevent pregnancy by delivering hormones to the woman’s body to stop her ova-
ries from releasing eggs or prevent the sperm from fertilizing the egg. They must be prescribed by a doctor and are usually
used all of the time, not just when having sex. When you begin using hormonal birth control methods, it is important to use a
back up method, such as a condom, for the first 30 days to prevent pregnancy. They do NOT protect against HIV or STIs!
May make periods more regular. Side effects may include mood swings, Does not require partner coopera- Must be taken at the same time each tion. Does not require partner coopera- bleeding and hair loss. tion. Once shot is given, it cannot be dis-continued or removed. Does not require partner coopera- menstrual cycle. May make periods lighter or more Side effects are similar to BC pills. Does not require partner coopera- continued or removed. tion. This fact sheet was produced by CHOICE. For more information about sexual health and choosing a birth control method call 215-985-3300 or visit www.choice-phila.org, www.choiceteens.org, and www.wheretofind.org. BARRIER METHODS: These methods are used when having sex. They have few side effects and some may help protect against HIV and other STIs if used during vaginal, anal and oral sex. condom on. Requires partner’s cooperation. HPV and herpes because it covers Requires partner’s cooperation. Very safe to use and easy to buy. May be inserted before sex. cide. Does not protect against HIV or STIs. Can be used during menstruation having sex. Must be left in place for 6- Must be left in place for 6-8 hours (but Can be used during menstruation no more than 48 hours) after sex. OTHER METHODS: These methods do NOT protect against HIV and other STIs.
NAME
Can be effective for up to 10 years. Does not protect against HIV and Does not require partner coopera- Increased risk of pelvic inflammatory disease. Side effects may include cramping, increased bleeding or spotting. WITHDRAWAL Penis is removed from the Effectiveness de- vagina before ejaculation. pends on the man’s Does not contain hormones. Ejaculation occurs outside ability to withdraw and away from the vagina. before he ejaculates. Call the CHOICE Hotline at 215-985-3300 or 1-800-84-TEENS

Source: http://www.choice-philadelphia.org/teen/factsheets/birthcontrol.PDF