Which Method of Birth Control Should I Use? Part I
So you're sexually active and having vaginal intercourse and you're interested in preventing pregnancy. It's 2009 and that means there are a lot of methods of birth control to choose from. Depending on a range of factors, it's important to find a birth control that fits for you. You wouldn't just throw on a sweater at the store without trying it on, right? Why would you blindly choose a birth control method without knowing all the facts? In a two-part series, I've compiled the basic pros and cons of many birth control options that are available in the United States.
Note that I have focused on common birth control methods that are meant to prevent pregnancy for a consistent period of time (not emergency contraception, for example) and are methods for people who are having vaginal intercourse (not abstinence, for example).
Condoms:
The Deal: Used correctly, these plastic or latex covers for a penis help prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.
The Pros: They prevent against STDs! They're widely available and some college campuses or health clinics have them available for free; It puts some of the physical duties and responsibility of preventing pregnancy on male partners; They're non-hormonal; When used correctly, condoms are 98% effective
The Cons: Some women are allergic to latex condoms (but there are plastic condoms and female condoms available); Maybe your partner refuses to wear condoms or has trouble maintaining an erection with them on - assuming your partner cares about your sexual health (and his!) female condoms are also available and effective in preventing pregnancy; Condoms are less effective if used incorrectly
The Diaphragm:
The Deal: It's a latex cup that is inserted into the vagina to cover the cervix. It blocks access to the uterus and, when used with spermicide, stops sperm from moving.
We value and respect the experiences of all of our HERWriters, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.
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great resources on choosing a birth control method here (from Association of Reproductive Health Professions/ARHP):
A Woman’s Guide to Understanding Today’s Birth Control Choices (Also available in Spanish) http://tinyurl.com/yasqgwv
October 6, 2009 - 8:42amThis Comment