Birth Control

Birth control is described as any method used to prevent a pregnancy. There are many safe and effective birth control methods available. Each person has different needs to consider when choosing a method. Some people are only concerned with preventing a pregnancy, while others are concerned with protecting themselves and their partner from sexually transmitted infections. Taking time to learn about each method will help you make your decision. Only you can decide what is best for you. If you have questions, a staff member at FamCare can discuss all of your birth control options with you and help you get the birth control you need.

Abstinence
Avoiding sexual intercourse. Simply put “say no”.

Spermicides
Spermicides are available in foam, film, jellies, and suppositories that contain a sperm-killing chemical, usually nonoxynol-9. Efficacy of spermicide alone is not definitive. They are most effective when partnered with a barrier method, like a condom or diaphragm. They are available without a prescription.

Condoms / Female Condoms
Male condom: a thin latex or plastic sheath placed on the penis to form a barrier. Prevents pregnancy by preventing sperm from entering vagina. The male condom also protects against direct contact with genital secretions, fluids, and lesions preventing the passage of infections. A condom is intended for one use, and then is discarded. They are available without a prescription.

Female condom: a lubricated polyurethane sheath shaped similarly to the male condom. The female condom includes a flexible ring inside a closed end, which is inserted into the vagina. The open end remains outside, partially covering the labia. The female condom, like the male condom, is available without a prescription and is intended for one-time use only. A female condom should not be used along with a male condom.

Diaphragm
A shallow latex cup that fits securely in the vagina to cover the cervix. A woman needs to see a doctor to be fitted for the diaphragm. Diaphragms must be used with spermicide. They work by blocking sperm from getting into the uterus.

Sponge
A soft, disposable donut shaped foam, the sponge must be moistened with water to activate its spermicide, nonoxynol-9, before insertion into the vagina. They are available without a prescription.

Birth control pills
Also called a combination oral contraceptive pill; the Pill contains estrogen and progestin. It generally works by preventing ovulation. For the pill to work, it must be taken daily. There are several different brands of this hormonal method of birth control available. Your health care provider will prescribe the right pill for you.

The Patch
A thin, flexible plastic patch (brand name Ortho Evra) worn on the skin that releases the hormones progestin and estrogen to protect against pregnancy. The patch can be worn on the buttocks, abdomen, upper torso or outer arm

The Ring
A small, flexible ring (brand name Nuva Ring) inserted in the vagina for three weeks (taking off every 4th week). The ring continuously releases a low dosage of hormones to prevent pregnancy.

The Shot-Depo-Provera
Depo-Provera, also called "the shot," is a long-lasting injectable hormonal medication that provides contraception for three months. The shot is administered by a clinician. The injection can be in your arm or buttock every 12 weeks.

The intrauterine device- IUD
A small, flexible plastic device placed into a woman’s uterus by the healthcare practitioner. The IUD primarily prevents sperm from reaching the egg by creating an environment in the cervix and uterus that is toxic to sperm. It contains copper or hormones to prevent pregnancy.

Implant
Brand name IMPLANON. A small, thin implantable hormonal contraceptive that is surgically placed under the skin. It provides up to three years of protection against pregnancy.

Emergency Contraception
This special dose of hormonal birth control works to prevent pregnancy if taken up to 5 days after unprotected intercourse, but is most effective within 72 hours of unprotected sex. Emergency contraception will have no effect if you are already pregnant; emergency contraception will not cause an abortion.

Vasectomy
Male sterilization, called a vasectomy, involves sealing, tying or cutting the tiny tube that carries the sperm from the testicle to the penis, known as the vas deferens. The procedure is done under local anesthesia in the doctor's office. Vasectomy prevents sperm from entering semen but does not affect ejaculation.

Tubal ligation
Female sterilization, called tubal ligation, blocks the fallopian tubes so the egg can't travel to the uterus. There are numerous methods for tying the tubes of the woman. Most involve making one or two small incisions in the abdomen under general anesthesia. After tubal ligation, the egg is obstructed from traveling down the tube to meet a man's sperm. Tubal ligation does not affect the menstrual cycle.

It is important to note that of the above methods, only condoms (male or female) protect against sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS.