Birth control or contraception is recommended for anyone who is not planning to get pregnant. There are kinds of birth control options, all prevent pregnancies in varying degrees and and some prevent the spread of STDs (sexually transmitted diseases), click HERE for details on different kinds of STDs and their signs.
The more common forms of contraception (used more regularly) are:
| Method | What it is | Pros | Cons | Protection % |
| Condoms | Men wear this latex cover over their penis which prevents their sperm from entering the vagina. | Provide protection against sex and STDs. | Can slip off or tear. | If used correctly, effective up to 98%. |
| Birth Control Pills | Pills consumed by women that release hormones to prevent pregnancies. For more details, click HERE. | Helpful in treating acne, balancing hormones, regulating periods, managing PMS symptoms. | Must be consumed daily with diligence and there can be side effects. | If consumed daily, may be up to 99% effective. |
| Contraceptive Patches | Patches that release hormones to prevent ovulation. Used weekly. | More convenient than pills, replaced weekly. | Risk of getting removed easily | When replaced weekly, up to 99% effective. Reduces if not used correctly. |
| Diaphragm
(more details HERE) | Barrier that is placed inside the vagina to prevent sperm from entering, made of silicon. Used along with spermicide. | Can be inserted hours before sex and reusable. | Too many things to keep in mind when using it (must stay inside for at least 6 hours post sex, must be the right size, must be used with spermicide for effectiveness) | Between 92-96% effective. |
For a more detailed list of contraception methods used, you can visit the link HERE
Some common misconceptions: (a little red X instead of bullet points when listing them on the website)
– “Pulling-out” prevents pregnancies
(in the info icon) Man pulls out of the vagina right before ejaculating.
– All birth control pills are the same and can be bought off-the-counter
There are different types of birth control pills and affect women differently. Please consult a gynecologist before buying birth control pills if it is available off-the-counter (no prescription needed) in your country.
– You can’t get pregnant during your period
– All contraception methods are 100% effective.
The effectiveness of contraceptives depends a lot on how correctly you use them. Even then, they may not be 100% effective.
– All forms of contraception help with everything (STDs etc)
For example condoms can prevent the spread of STDs but oral contraceptives (birth control pills) won’t.
– Ok to keep having emergency contraception post sex every time vs regular contraception
Pills like Plan B are emergency contraceptive pills that are taken if there is unprotected sex. It is taken occasionally and not regularly as it becomes less effective if taken more regular and causes several side-effects.
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