As young sexually active adults, it’s important to be aware of protection. Birth control options vary from abstinence to shots to condoms. It’s important to do the research before making a decision on what the best option is for you and your body. So here’s a look into some options to prevent pregnancy. Know before taking or deciding on anything that’s ingested, injected or inserted, that it’s best to consult a doctor first.
Combination Pill: Take once a day at the same time. (Estrostrep Fe, LoEstrin 1/20, Ortho-Novum 7/7/7, Ortho Tri-Cylcen Lo, Yasmin, Yaz)
Pro- 99% effective, eases hot flashes and encourages regular periods
Con- Not good for smokers or woman over 35, can trigger migraines
Progestin-only Pill: Take once a day at the same time. (Micronor, Nora-BE, Nor-QD, Orvette)
Pro-Safer for smokers and diabetics, better for women who are breastfeeding
Con-Need to be taken at the same time EVERY DAY, can cause headaches
Extended Cycle Pill: Take once a day, every day all year. (Lybrel, Seasonale, Seasonique)
Pro-One period every three months
Con-No research proving/disproving the effects of not having monthly period
Vaginal Ring: Flexible ring self-inserted in the vagina every three weeks, taken out on the fourth week for a regular period. (Nuvaring)
Pro-Predictable, not something to remember everyday
Con-Not good for smokers, those with certain cancers or blood clots
Diaphragm: Rubber dome shape that covers the cervix. Only used during sex. (Milex Wide Seal, Ortho All-Flex, Semina, SILCS)
Pro-Fitted to prevent sperm to fertilize eggs.
Con-Need to be fitted by a doctor, must use spermicide with a diaphragm, not good for women who are prone to bladder infections.
IUD: Copper device that is surgically implanted. (Mirena, ParaGard)
Pro-99% effective, good for ten years
Con-High cost for removal, not recommended for women who haven’t been pregnant
Female Condom: Polyurethane, inserted over the cervix like a diaphragm. Only worn during sex. (Femy, Protectiv, Reality)
Pro-Protects against STD’s as well as pregnancy, can be inserted up to eight hours before sex
Con-Male condoms are more effective
Male Condoms: Can be made with latex, polyurethane and lambskin. Worn only during sex. (Durex, LifeStyles, Trojan)
Pro-Prevents sperm from traveling, if worn properly
Con-Lambskins don’t protect against all STD’s; latex and polyurethane can be degraded by oil-based lubricants
Patch: Releases hormones after being placed on the arm, buttock or abdomen. One patch every week for three weeks, on the fourth week, rest easy. (Ortho Evra)
Pro-When used properly, 99% effective
Con-Increases risk of blood clots
Implant: Implanted in upper arm underneath the skin. Lasts for three years.
Pro: 100% effective
Con: Costs up to $800
The Morning After Pill: Taken within 72 hours after sex, known as the “emergency contraception”.
Pro-Can be up to 98% effective if taken within 24 hours
Con-Side effects such as nausea, migraines, cramping and vomiting, only meant to be taken in case of emergency, not for everyday/consistent use
At the end of the day, the only birth control that’s absolutely 100% effective and side-effect-free is abstinence from vaginal sex. But that doesn’t always happen. Protect yourself how YOU believe you need to be protected. Whether that means using both condoms and the pill, or IUD, or just plain waiting until you’re ready for children. Each has its own benefits and side effects. Research to find what fits your life best. Consult a doctor before committing to any long term birth control.
Remember, it’s your body, you are in control of what to ingest, insert, implant inside it.