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The common answer is your chances are very low. However, there are rare cases where living sperm can be present in the precum and conception subsequently possible. Precum is one reason that we suggest that all couples who are not trying to get pregnant use a condom the whole time there is penetration (when the penis enters the vagina).

What is Precum?

Precum is more accurately known as pre-ejaculate fluid. This is a bodily fluid that is released from the penis during intercourse. Most men don’t even notice discharging precum when it happens. More importantly, men do not have any control over it.

Are There Sperm in the Precum?

Studies indicate the majority of pre-ejaculate fluid has dead or no sperm at all. But, it is possible for small amounts of sperm to exit his reproductive system and make its way into the precum or pre-ejaculate.

Can You Get Pregnant Without Penetration?

For all practical purposes, you cannot get pregnant without penetration. However, if ejaculate fluid/semen comes in contact with the vagina even without penetration, it is possible that sperm could enter and fertilize an egg.

Can I Get Pregnant if He Pulls Out?

Anytime there is a possibility of sperm in the vagina there is a risk of sperm fertilizing an egg. That’s why it’s wise to wear a condom the whole time there is genital contact.

How Long Does Sperm Survive?

Sperm will live 3-5 days in the vagina. That’s why, whether you want to get pregnant or avoid pregnancy, it’s important to know your ovulation cycle and your fertility window. Our free Ovulation Calendar can help you discover your most fertile days.

Should I Take Plan B?

Plan B is similar to birth control pills. Its single tablet delivers 1.5 mg of levonorgestrel to delay or prevent the release of an egg from the ovary.  Because it uses such a high dosage, Plan B is not meant to be used as a regular birth control method. From pills to patches and IUDs, there are many choices when considering types of birth control.
If you have questions, we’re happy to talk with you on our chat line or helpline, 1-800-672-2296.  

Want to Know More?

• How to Get Pregnant
• Can You Get Pregnant on Your Period?
• What is Ovulation?

The post Can You Get Pregnant from Precum? appeared first on American Pregnancy Association.

Federal Programs for Pregnant Women

There are several government organizations that offer assistance to pregnant women. Many of these services are funded by the federal government but you may have to apply through your state’s health department or agency first. Financial assistance for pregnant single mothers and others may be available through some of these sources as well.

Women, Infants, and Children Program

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program offers nutritional food and education. You can also get some screening services with referrals to other agencies as needed. Women are eligible for services throughout pregnancy and up to 6 months after birth or the end of the pregnancy. If you are breastfeeding, you may qualify for up to one year or for 6 months after birth if you are not breastfeeding.

The WIC program issues checks, electronic cards, or vouchers so that you can purchase specific foods to improve the nutrition of the recipients. Examples of these foods include infant formula and cereal, fruits, vegetables, eggs, cheese, peanut butter, and other healthy foods.

To be eligible for this assistance, your income must be at or below 185 percent of the U.S. Poverty Income Guidelines and meet other WIC eligibility requirements to qualify for the program. If you or other family members participate in another benefit programs like Medicaid, you will automatically be eligible for this service. Click here to apply.

Pregnancy Medicaid

Medicaid is a state-administered program that may allow you to obtain important heath services – especially during pregnancy. The general guidelines for eligibility for Medicaid are set by the Federal government; however, each state sets up their own specific requirements for eligibility and these can differ from state to state.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program can also offer assistance to pregnant mothers if you are pregnant with no resources. TANF is federally funded but administered by the state; the goal is to provide temporary financial assistance at the same time while helping you find a job to better support yourself. The financial aid can be used to purchase food, clothing, housing, utilities, and medical supplies.

Low-income families with children and pregnant women who are in the last three months of pregnancy are typically able to receive these benefits. Each state has specific eligibility requirements like with Medicaid. In order to apply, you should contact the Medicaid office in your state.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Previously known as the food stamp program, SNAP provides low-income and no-income families with debit cards to purchase groceries.  A household be be one person or a group of people who buy and make their food together. Eligibility requirements vary from state to state but you need to be close to the federal poverty line to qualify. Check  your state’s specific eligibility guidelines and services.

Affordable Housing

The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services operates the Maternity Group Homes for Pregnant and Parenting Youth (MGH) Program to support homeless pregnant and/or parenting young people, as well as their dependent children. Youth must be between the ages of 16 and 22 to enter the program.

The Housing Choice Voucher Program, also known as Section 8, helps low-income earners and their families with rental expenses. The program is managed by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and has helped millions of low-income families keep a roof over their heads. Under Section 8 housing assistance program, if you qualify, HUD will directly pay a housing subsidy on behalf of your family to your landlord. You’ll then pay the difference between the subsidy and the total amount of rent due. The first step in the qualification process is to fill out a formal application.

Rent Help for Low-Income Rural Families

If you live in a rural community, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) can help pay your rent if you’re experiencing housing problems. This assistance is a subsidy and is available through the Rural Development program. The USDA also provides housing assistance to the disabled and elderly, and many others. This is a special program that falls under the Section 8 housing assistance program, so the first step in the qualification process will be to apply online.

Free Health Care Programs

The Health Resources and Services Administration provides low-income families with free health care access in all 50 states. To see if your family qualifies, start by reviewing the guidelines. If you do, accessing medical care is as simple as locating a qualifying clinic. Once you arrive, you’ll fill out several forms prior to receiving the medical care you are seeking.

Dental Care

Many government and privately funded dental clinics offer their services for free. If you and your family qualify, you’ll have access to free basic dental care, including checkups, referrals, and medications. Look up a complete list of contacts in each state online.

Childcare Subsidies and Vouchers

The federal government provides grants and funding to states and local communities to help qualified low-income families access affordable day care services. To qualify, you must be employed, going to school, or enrolled in an approved job training program before taking advantage of the day care services offered under this program. Funding provided by the government only covers a portion of overall childcare expenses, however, which means you’ll still be responsible for the difference. To see if you qualify and to find a local participating facility, call 800-424-2246.

Other Helpful Financial Resources to Help Pregnant Women

Energy Bill Assistance

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps millions of families nationwide overcome this problem. To learn more, contact LIHEAP directly at 202-401-9351.

Religious Charities

There are a variety of religious organizations that may offer help to pregnant women. Since financial pressures and lack of support may contribute to the decision about abortion for some women, these groups seek to financially support women who may want assistance in carrying the pregnancy to term. They may supply clothing and baby items as well.

For example:

Pregnancy Resource Centers offer counseling, medical services and may be able to help you secure local financial resources in your community. Click to find the pregnancy centers near you.

Catholic Charities in many communities offers assistance to women with unplanned pregnancies. They provide pregnancy counseling and adoption services as well. You can check with the Catholic Charities in your area if you are in need of assistance with your pregnancy.

Adoption Agencies may offer financial assistance if you’re considering placing your baby for adoption. This assistance may come from the parents you choose for your baby.

Sources:

U.S. Housing and Urban Development

USDA Rural Development

Office of Community Services

Health Resources and Services Administration

Need Help Paying the Bills

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How does a birth control sponge work?

 You insert the sponge deep into your vagina before sexual intercourse to prevent pregnancy. It is designed to fit over the cervix and works in three ways to prevent pregnancy:

• It blocks the cervix, preventing semen from entering the uterus.
• The sponge contains spermicide which kills sperm.
• The sponge absorbs the semen and traps sperm.

How effective is a contraceptive sponge?

The effectiveness of the sponge depends on how well you use it and whether or not you’ve ever given birth. The failure rates are:

• 9 percent for women who haven’t given birth and use the sponge correctly every time
• 12 percent for women who haven’t given birth and don’t use the sponge correctly every time
• 20 percent for women who have given birth and use the sponge correctly every time
• 24 percent for women who have given birth and don’t use the sponge correctly every time

To improve the effectiveness of the sponge, ask your partner to pull out before ejaculating. He can also use a condom as added protection.

You should take a pregnancy test if you are experiencing any pregnancy symptoms.

What are the side effects or health risks of a contraceptive sponge?

The sponge has been associated with some women experiencing toxic shock syndrome (TSS) – a rare but serious life-threatening bacterial infection.

The sponge should not be left inside the vagina for more than 30 hours. The sponge should not be used during menstruation or if you have a history of TSS.

If the sponge breaks when you’re trying to remove it and you can’t get all the pieces out, you need to see your doctor. Leaving the pieces in your body may cause an infection.

You should not use the sponge if you are allergic to sulfites (a chemical found in some food and wine), the spermicide, or any of the sponge’s materials. Doing so may lead to an allergic reaction.

What are the pros & cons of the birth control sponge?

The Pros include:

• Easy to use and effective immediately
• Inexpensive and available at drugstores
• Can be inserted up to a day before having sex
• Does not require a medical exam or prescription
• Doesn’t affect your hormone levels
• It’s reversible

The Cons include:

• It’s less effective if you’ve given birth
• It’s unsafe to use during your period
• It doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• The sponge or spermicide may irritate your vagina, which can increase your risk of STIs
• Insertion and removal can be messy or difficult

NOTE: The contraceptive sponge was removed from the market in 1994 by the FDA for health reasons but has been recently re-approved by the FDA, so it may not be available in all areas. Be sure to check with your pharmacy or health care provider on the availability of the contraceptive sponge.

Want to Know More?

• Types of Birth Control
• Birth Control Failure
• Birth Control Pills
• Birth Control Patch

Sources:

Healthline: About the Birth Control Sponge

The post Contraceptive Sponge appeared first on American Pregnancy Association.

What are the different kinds of birth control pills?

• The minipill contains only progestin. In each pack, all the pills contain the same amount of progestin and all the pills are active. The progestin dose in a minipill is lower than the progestin dose in any combination pill.
• Combination birth control pills contain both estrogen and progestin. Combination birth control pills come in different mixtures of active and inactive pills, depending on how often you want to have periods:
  • Conventional packs usually contain 21 active pills and seven inactive pills, or 24 active pills and four inactive pills. Bleeding occurs every month when you take the inactive pills.
  • Continuous dosing or extended cycle packs typically contain 84 active pills and seven inactive pills. Bleeding generally occurs only four times a year, during the time when you take the inactive pills. Formulations that contain only active pills are available.

Most combination birth control pills contain 10 to 35 micrograms of ethinyl estradiol, a kind of estrogen. Women who are sensitive to hormones may benefit from taking a pill that contains a dose of estrogen at the lower end of this range. However, low-dose pills may result in more breakthrough bleeding — bleeding or spotting between periods — than higher dose pills.

• The extended-cycle pill is a combination pill that reduces the number of menstrual periods from 13 periods a year to only four a year. That means someone who takes this pill will menstruate only once each season.

  They use a combination of two hormones that are commonly used in other hormonal contraceptives. But the pill is taken continuously for 12 weeks, followed by 1 week of inactive pills, which results in a menstrual cycle.

How do the different birth control pills work?

Combination birth control pills prevent your ovaries from releasing an egg. They also slow an egg’s progress through the fallopian tubes, thicken cervical mucus and thin the lining of the uterus (endometrium). These actions help keep sperm from fertilizing the egg.

Combination pills are either monophasic (one phase) or multiphasic (many phases).Both are equally effective at preventing a pregnancy.

• Monophasic pills deliver an even level of hormones throughout the month.
• Multiphasic ones have slightly different levels of hormones in active pills. They mimic normal hormonal changes that happen during your menstrual cycle.

The minipill slows an egg’s progress through the fallopian tubes, thickens cervical mucus and thins the endometrium. This prevents sperm from reaching the egg. The minipill sometimes also suppresses ovulation.

What are the side effects of birth control pills?

There are side effects of birth control pills, although most are not serious:

• Nausea
• Sore or swollen breasts
• Small amounts of blood, or spotting, between periods
• Lighter periods
• Mood changes
• Mild headache

What if I forget to take my birth control pill?

If you forget to take some of the pills, you will have menstrual bleeding at irregular times, and the likelihood of pregnancy increases.  When you forget to take a pill, take it as soon as you can. Take your next pill at the usual time. If you forget to take two or more pills in a row, you should refrain from sexual intercourse or use a backup method of contraception. You also should contact your health care professional on what to do next.

How effective is the pill?

If pills are taken every day at the same time, and each pack is started on time, oral contraceptives are 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.  On average, oral contraceptives are 93-97% effective because women often miss pills or do not start a new pack on time. Contact your healthcare provider if you are experiencing any pregnancy symptoms.

What Are Levonorgestrel and Ulipristal?

Unlike the other pills, these aren’t intended for regular birth control. Levonorgestrel (Fallback Solo, Next Choice One Dose, Opcicon One-Step, Plan B One-Step) and ulipristal acetate (Ella) can greatly lower your chances of getting pregnant if you had unprotected sex or if you’re concerned that your usual birth control method didn’t work.

Levonorgestrel is about 88% effective if you use it as directed. You need to take it as soon as possible within 3 days of having sex.

Ulipristal is about 60% to 70% effective if you use it correctly. You need to take it ASAP within 5 days of having sex.

Things to Keep in Mind When Taking Birth Control Pills

• Keep another form of birth control, like spermicidal foam and condoms, on hand in case you forget to take a pill.
• Carry your pills with you if you don’t always sleep at the same place.
• Take your pill at the same time every day.
• Get your refills soon after you start the last prescription. Don’t wait until the last minute.
• Birth control pills are medications. Always tell your doctor or pharmacist you are on the pill if you see them for any reason.

What about the pill and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?

Oral contraceptives do NOT provide any protection against any sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV.

Want to Know More?

• Types of Birth Control
• Birth Control Failure
• Birth Control Patch

Sources:

Mayo Clinic: Choosing a Birth Control Pill

WebMD: Birth Control Pills

The post Birth Control Pills appeared first on American Pregnancy Association.

Let’s talk about your pregnancy

It’s helpful to talk through your pregnancy with a trusted family member or friend. We’re here for you too. Our pregnancy educators are ready to answer your questions and talk about every possible scenario. Call us 1-800-672-2296 or click the chat window.

The post Your Pregnancy appeared first on American Pregnancy Association.

How effective is the withdrawal method as birth control?

• The Pros:
  • Withdrawal can be used every time
  • Withdrawal may be added to other forms of birth control to increase the effectiveness
  • Withdrawal is free
  • Withdrawal does not require a prescription or manipulation of some mechanism
• The Cons:
  • Withdrawal is not considered the most reliable form of birth control
  • The woman must have complete trust in the man’s ability to withdraw
  • Pre-ejaculation, which may contain sperm, occurs without the knowledge of the man
  • Some men have difficulty timing their withdrawal

What are the side effects or health risks of withdrawal?

Outside of the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases, the withdrawal method does not possess any side effects or health risks as a means of birth control. The withdrawal method isn’t as effective at preventing pregnancy as other forms of birth control.

Is it reversible?

Yes. It does not have any effects on either the male or female reproductive function. It is possible to get pregnant immediately if withdrawal is no longer used.

How much does it cost?

Free.

What about withdrawal and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?

It does not prevent the vagina from coming in contact with your partner’s skin. Also, because of pre-ejaculate excretions, withdrawal does not prevent the vagina from coming in contact with bodily fluids. As such, it should NOT be considered as a means for protection against the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases.

To use the withdrawal method, you need to:

• Properly time withdrawal. When you feel like ejaculation is about to happen, withdraw the penis from the vagina. Make sure that ejaculation occurs away from the vagina.
• Take precautions before having sex again. If you plan to have sex again soon, urinate and clean off the tip of the penis first. This will help remove any remaining sperm from the last ejaculation.

Want to Know More?

• Types of Birth Control
• Birth Control Failure
• My Girlfriend is Pregnant

Sources:

Mayo Clinic: Withdrawal Method (coitus interruptus)

Healthline: How effective is the pull-out method (withdrawal)?

The post Withdrawal Method as Birth Control appeared first on American Pregnancy Association.

The vaginal ring prevents pregnancy in one of three ways:

• First, it prevents eggs from being released from the ovaries.
• Second, it thickens the cervical mucus, preventing the sperm from reaching the egg.
• Third, it changes the lining of the uterus, preventing implantation. This third method presents some ethical concerns that you may want to consider.

How Do You Use the Vaginal Ring and How Effective is It?

The device is inserted into your vagina where it remains for three weeks. It is removed during the fourth week to allow your menstrual period to occur. At the end of the fourth week, the process is repeated. The vaginal ring begins to work immediately, but a second form of birth control should be used during the first seven days of your first month’s use of the vaginal ring.

The failure rate is less than 2% when it is used correctly and consistently. In other words, when it is used correctly, less than 2 in 100 women will get pregnant. You should take a pregnancy test if you are experiencing pregnancy symptoms.

Certain medications and supplements can also reduce the effectiveness of the vaginal ring. These include:

• St. John’s wort
• the antibiotic rifampin
• some HIV medications
• some antiseizure medications

If you take any of these, it’s a good idea to use a backup form of birth control.

What are the Side Effects or Health Risks of the Vaginal Ring?

The device has side effects similar to those experienced by users of oral contraceptives or other hormonal types of contraception which include:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Breast tenderness
• Fatigue
• Moderate weight gain
• Change of appetite

Additional side effects may include vaginal bleeding, skin irritation, yeast infections, contact lens problems, and depression.
The device should not be used by women who:

• Smoke
• Have high blood pressure
• Have a history of breast or uterine cancer
• Have a history of blood clots
• Have a history of heart attack or stroke
• Are allergic to hormones
• Have diabetes
• Have liver disease
• Have unexplained vaginal bleeding.

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following:

• Chest pains
• Redness, swelling, or pain in your legs
• Abnormal or irregular vaginal bleeding
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
• If you think you might be pregnant

Women who wish to use the vaginal ring should seek additional consultation with their physician if they are experiencing any of the following medical concerns:

• Depression
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• High risk for heart disease
• History of blood clotting conditions
• History of liver disease

Is the vaginal ring reversible?

Yes. Ovulation may return within a few days after discontinuing the ring; however, it may take a few months for some women. Pregnancy should be possible when you stop using the vaginal ring.

What about the risks of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?

The vaginal ring does NOT provide protection against the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases.

Can I use the vaginal ring when I am breastfeeding?

If you have recently been pregnant or if you are breastfeeding, it is best to consult your physician for the best time to start using the ring.

What do I do if the ring comes out?

If the ring comes out, it is best to replace it right away. If you do this within 3 hours, no backup method should be necessary.

Where does the ring need to go?

The exact position of the ring in the vagina is not vital to its effectiveness but read your instructions carefully to understand where the ring should be placed.

The Pros of the Vaginal Ring:

• Highly effective when used correctly
• Does not inhibit sexual spontaneity
• Minimal side effects
• You do not have to remember to take a pill each day.
• You do not have to go to the doctor’s office for a shot each month.
• It is reversible.

The Cons include:

• Does NOT protect against sexually transmitted diseases
• Requires a prescription
• Requires monthly insertion and removal

Want to Know More?

• Types of Birth Control
• Birth Control Failure
• Birth Control Pills
• Birth Control Patch

Sources

• Centers for Disease Control (CDC): Birth Control Methods
• Healthline

The post Vaginal Ring appeared first on American Pregnancy Association.

How effective is spermicide?

Spermicide is one of the less effective birth control methods when used by itself. The typical use of spermicide, which is considered the way most people use it, possesses a failure rate of 28%. Spermicides should be used with another barrier method of birth control such as a diaphragm, cervical cap, or condom. You should take a pregnancy test if you are experiencing any pregnancy symptoms.

Some types of spermicide are effective immediately, while other products may take 15 to 30 minutes to activate. Also, some types may stop being effective around an hour after use.

What are the side effects or health risks?

In some individuals, an allergic reaction may lead to itching, burning, or redness.

Are spermicides reversible?

Yes. They do not have any effects on either the male or female reproductive cycle. It is possible to get pregnant immediately if it is no longer used.

What about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?

Spermicidal chemicals do not prevent contact of the vagina from the partner’s skin or bodily fluids. Spermicide should NOT be considered as a means of protection from sexually transmitted diseases.

What are the pros & cons?

• The Pros:
  • When combined with other barrier methods (condom, diaphragm, or cervical cap), the combined failure rate is between 3% – 10%.
  • Doctor visits are not required to obtain spermicide.
  • It is easily accessible at grocery stores, drug stores, and supercenters.
  • It is inexpensive and easy to carry.
• The Cons:
  • Spermicide must be inserted less than 30 minutes prior to intercourse and ideally less than 20 minutes.
  • It must be inserted for each act of sexual intercourse.
  • It requires another barrier method to avoid high failure rates.
  • Spermicide does NOT protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

Types of Spermicide

Each type works in slightly different ways. Some mix with vaginal fluid to form a thicker gel to block the cervix, while other forms focus on preventing the sperm from moving.

Nonoxynol-9 damages the cell membrane of sperm, interfering with the sperm’s ability to move and effectively killing the sperm.

Spermicide condoms

Using condoms coated with spermicide is an excellent option to increase the effectiveness for preventing pregnancy and STIs with just one product. It may be more convenient to use a condom with added spermicide instead of using spermicide plus another barrier contraceptive method. Using spermicide and condoms together are about 99 percent effective in preventing pregnancy and STIs when used perfectly and depending on the type of spermicide.

Vaginal Contraceptive Sponge

A vaginal contraceptive sponge is made of a soft foam with added spermicide. The product is effective immediately after insertion and provides protection for 24 hours. Read the directions before use to ensure you’re using it correctly. Each sponge can only be used once. The sponge may be more effective than other spermicide products, with about a 9 to 11 percent failure rate.

It’s recommended to wait at least 6 hours after the last time having intercourse before removing. The maximum time a sponge can remain in the vagina is 30 hours.

Vaginal Contraceptive Films

Vaginal contraceptive films are a thin sheet, similar to wax paper. When inserted into the vagina, the film begins to dissolve and mix with vaginal fluids, forming a thick gel consistency. It’s recommended to place the film as close to the cervix as possible.

Vaginal films should be placed at least 15 minutes before sexual intercourse to allow time for the product to dissolve and form the gel. How long the film is effective may vary between different brands.

Spermicidal Jellies

Spermicidal jellies are often used along with diaphragms or cervical caps. The jelly acts as lube and an added layer of protection in case any sperm manages to get around the barrier of a diaphragm or cervical cap. Spermicidal jellies usually come in a tube. The product comes with an applicator to insert the jelly as close to the cervix as possible. After use, simply wash the applicator, and allow it to dry before the next use.

The jelly is effective immediately and lasts about 1 hour. When used with a diaphragm, it may be effective for up to 6 hours.

Contraceptive Gels

A contraceptive gel is an easy-to-use birth control option that also provides lubrication. Typically, the gel is inserted while lying down. The applicator is placed deep into the vagina, as close to the cervix as possible.

Spermicide Suppositories

Spermicide suppositories come in a bullet shaped solid. Once placed into the vagina, the suppository dissolves into a foam texture. It takes about 10 to 15 minutes for spermicide suppositories to become effective.

Want to Know More?

• Types of Birth Control
• Birth Control Pills
• Birth Control Patch

Compiled using information from the following sources:

1. Association of Reproductive Health Professionals. (n.d.). Choosing a method of birth control: Spermicides.

https://www.arhp.org/Publications-and-Resources/Quick-Reference-Guide-for-Clinicians/choosing/Spermicides

The post Spermicide appeared first on American Pregnancy Association.

An Overview of the Types of Birth Control

It is important to examine the different types of birth control and other related considerations as you determine which method of contraception to use.

While most birth control methods prevent pregnancy, they do not all prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases.

Additionally, aside from abstinence, all forms of birth control have a failure rate. You should take a pregnancy test if you are experiencing pregnancy symptoms.

Abstinence

• As a means of contraception, abstinence is the voluntary refraining from sexual activity.
• Abstinence is the only contraceptive method that is 100% effective in the prevention of both pregnancy and the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases.

Fertility Awareness Method/Natural Family Planning (NFP)

• Fertility awareness method is also known as Natural Family Planning and is commonly called NFP.
• NFP does not rely on devices or medications to prevent pregnancy.
• NFP is a contraceptive method that uses the natural functions of your body and your menstrual cycle to determine ovulation. This involves recording your basal body temperature and changes in your cervical mucus each day.
• NFP requires periodic abstinence (approximately 7 to 10 days) during a woman’s ovulation window. Some women choose to use a barrier method or withdrawal during this time frame.

Barrier or device methods are physical or chemical barriers designed to stop sperm from entering a woman’s uterus

Male Condom:

• The male condom is a tube of thin material (latex rubber) that is rolled over the erect penis prior to contact with the vagina.
• The male condom is the most common barrier method.

Female Condom:

• The female condom is a seven-inch long pouch of polyurethane with two flexible rings and is inserted into the vagina prior to intercourse.
• The female condom covers the cervix, vaginal canal, and the immediate area around the vagina.

Spermicides:

• Spermicides are chemicals that are designed to kill sperm.
• Spermicide chemicals are available as foam, jelly, foaming tablets, and vaginal suppositories.

Diaphragm:

• The diaphragm is a soft, rubber dome stretched over a flexible ring.
• The dome is filled with a spermicidal cream or jelly.
• The diaphragm is then inserted into the vagina and placed over the cervix no more than 3 hours prior to intercourse.

Cervical Cap:

• The cervical cap is a small cup made of latex rubber or plastic.
• The cervical cap is filled with a spermicidal cream or jelly, inserted into the vagina, and placed over the cervix.

Contraceptive Sponge:

• The contraceptive sponge is a soft, saucer-shaped device made from polyurethane foam.

Hormonal Birth Control:

Whether administered as a pill, patch, shot, ring or implant, hormone medications contain manufactured forms of the hormones estrogen and/or progesterone.
Hormonal contraceptives do NOT protect against the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases.
Hormonal methods work in one of three ways:

1) preventing a woman’s ovaries from releasing an egg each month;

2) causing the cervical mucus to thicken, making it harder for sperm to reach and penetrate the egg;

3) thinning the lining of the uterus, which reduces the likelihood that a fertilized egg will implant in the uterus wall. This third method presents an ethical concern to consider.

Birth Control Pills:

• Birth control pills are taken daily as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Depo-Provera:

• Depo-Provera is an injection given by your doctor that prevents pregnancy for three months.

Lunelle:

• Lunelle is an injection given by your health care provider that prevents pregnancy for one month.

NuvaRing/Vaginal Ring:

• NuvaRing, or vaginal ring, is a flexible ring that is inserted into the vagina for three weeks, removed for one week, and then replaced with a new ring.
• The ring releases estrogen and progesterone into your body.

Ortho Evra Patch/Birth Control Patch:

• The birth control patch is placed directly on the skin, with the hormones built into the sticky side of the patch.
• Each week for the first three weeks a new patch is placed on the hip, buttocks, or upper arm.
• The patch is removed during the fourth week, allowing for a menstrual period.

Intrauterine Device (IUD):

• The IUD is a small plastic device containing copper or hormones and is inserted into the uterus by a medical professional.
• The IUD does not stop the sperm from entering into the uterus, but rather it changes cervical mucus decreasing the probability of fertilization. It also changes the lining of the uterus preventing implantation should fertilization occur.

Withdrawal & Sterilization:

Neither withdrawal nor sterilization prevents transmission of sexually transmitted diseases.

Withdrawal:

• Withdrawal involves the removal of the erect penis from the vagina prior to ejaculation.

Sterilization:

Female:

• Sterilization involves the surgical closing of the fallopian tubes which carry the eggs from the ovaries to the uterus
• This procedure is referred to as a tubal ligation

Male:

• Sterilization involves the surgical closing of the vas deferens (the tubes that carry sperm)
• This procedure is referred to as a vasectomy

How different birth control methods compare

Want to Know More?

• Birth Control Failure

Sources:

Healthline: How Effective is Each Birth Control Method?

U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Office on Women’s Health: Birth Control Methods

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