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.
The Pros: It's non-hormonal; it lasts up to two years; it is relatively affordable given how long it lasts; it is 94% effective if used perfectly; it can be used during breast-feeding
The Cons: Intercourse can sometimes move your diaphragm around; when not used perfectly it is only 84% effective; it can't be used during your menstrual cycle; it can be difficult for some to insert; some women may develop urinary tract infections or may be allergic to latex or spermicide; Does not prevent against STDs
The Pill:
The Deal: Oral contraceptives are taken 21 of 28 days and stops ovulation, thicken your cervical mucus and help prevent fertilization. There are two types: the progestin-only pill and the estrogen and progestin pill ("the combination pill")
The Pros: When used correctly, the pill is over 99% effective in prevent pregnancy; the oral contraceptive can help you if you have heavy periods and bad cramps; studies have shown that taking the combination pill can help reduce your risk of ovarian cancer
The Cons: You have to take it every day at around the same time; it can get expensive (ranging from $20-$50 a month); it is a hormonal drug which can cause a range of side effects; it's available only with a prescription; unlike other methods, it can increase some people's risk of serious issues like strokes or heart attacks; Does not prevent against STDs
The Patch:
The Deal: A hormonal patch is placed on the skin and releases estrogen and progestin to prevent ovulation
The Pros: Ortho Evra can be worn all the time, it is easy to use, your periods are lighter and less painful, when used correctly it is 99% effective in preventing pregnancies
The Cons: it can get expensive (ranging from $20-$50 a month); it is a hormonal drug which can cause a range of side effects; it's available only with a prescription; unlike other methods, it can increase some people's risk of serious issues like liver tumors or high blood pressure; Does not prevent against STDs
Stay tuned for part two!