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Something we think that you should know about:
Birth Control Options
Barrier Methods:
Condoms
Placed over the man's erect penis, condoms prevent pregnancy by stopping sperm from reaching the womb. When used correctly, latex condoms also can help prevent the spread of chlamydia and sexually transmitted diseases, such as AIDS, genital herpes, and genital warts. Available at pharmacies without a prescription.
Diaphragm
Inserted into the woman's vagina, diaphragms cover the cervix and prevent pregnancy by stopping sperm from reaching the womb. Diaphragms should be used in conjunction with spermicidal jellies or creams for maximum effectiveness. Must be prescribed and fitted by a health care practitioner.
Cervical Cap
Like diaphragms, cervical caps are inserted into the woman's vagina to cover the cervix and prevent sperm from gaining access to the uterus: Cervical caps should also be used with spermicidal jellies or creams.
Spermicides
Contraceptive foams, jellies, creams, and suppositories contain chemical either
Spermicides which, when inserted into the vagina, prevent pregnancy by killing sperm before they enter the uterus. Available without prescription.
Hormone Methods:
Injection
The birth control shot, administered every 3 months, contains a hormone that prevents pregnancy.
Implant
Implants are flexible, match-sized sticks placed under the skin on the inside of a woman's upper arm. They contain a hormone that prevents pregnancy for about 5 years.
Pill
Birth control pills contain hormones that prevent pregnancy. Today's pills are safe and effective for most women if taken as prescribed.
Other Methods :
IUDs (intrauterine devices}
An IUD is a small, T-shaped plastic piece, which contains either copper or a hormone that prevents pregnancy. A doctor or nurse places it into the uterus.
Periodic Abstinence (Rhythm Method}
Periodic abstinence methods consist of avoiding sex during the woman's fertile period. This is accomplished by using the calendar, basal body temperature, or cervical mucous methods.
Surgery
Either a woman or a man may undergo sterilization. For a woman, this involves surgery to seal off the fallopian tubes (tubal ligation). In male sterilization, or vasectomy, the tubes that carry sperm are sealed, tied, or cut.
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