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Condoms can be purchased on this site or at most drug stores.
Other types of birth control can be obtained from your doctor or other
health care providers.
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Birth Control Pill
What is the birth control pill?
The birth control pill is a pill that women take to try
not to get pregnant. A doctor has to give you a prescription.
How does the birth control pill work?
The birth control pill works in different ways:
- It stops your ovaries from releasing an egg each month.
- It makes the mucus in the cervix thicker. It is harder
for the sperm to travel into the cervix. The cervix is the opening to
the uterus.
- The lining of the uterus becomes thinner. This makes
it harder for a fertilized egg to attach to the uterus.
How effective is the birth control pill?
When the birth control pill is taken exactly as directed,
the failure rate is less than 1 percent. However, if you miss any pills,
your chance or getting pregnant increases.
How do you use the birth control pill?
A nurse or doctor will tell you how to start using it.
You can choose from different kinds of birth control pills. Birth control
pills come in packs for 21 days or 28 days.
- Read the instructions that come with the birth control
pills, and check the expiry date on the package before you use them.
- If you get the 21-day pack, you take one pill each
day for 21 days. These pills contain hormones. Then, for seven days you
do not take pills.
- If you get the 28-day pack, you take one pill each
day. For 21 days, you take pills that have hormones. For seven days,
you take pills that don’t have hormones. Your chance of getting
pregnant is not increased during the seven days when you are not on the
hormone pills.
The pill should be taken at approximately the same
time every day. When you first start birth control pills they do not
work right away. We recommend using a backup method such as condoms and
spermicides during the first month to protect against pregnancy. If you
have diarrhea or vomitting, or if you are taking other medicines, your
pills may not work as well. During these times, you should use a backup
method like condoms and spermicides to prevent pregnancy. If the doctor
gives you any medication, you should tell him or her that you are taking
birth control pills.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of the birth
control pill?
Advantages:
- Your chances of getting pregnant are very low.
- Your period is very regular. You might not bleed as
much during your period.
- The birth control pills that have estrogen and progesterone
lower your chances of getting cancer of the ovaries and the endometrium.
The endometrium is the lining of the uterus
- You don’t have to interrupt sex.
- Your partner doesn’t have to be involved.
Disadvantages:
- A doctor has to give you the prescription.
- You might not be able to use it if you have certain
health problems.
- You must remember to take it each day at the same
time.
- You’re not protected against sexually transmitted
infections (STIs).
- It costs a lot, especially at drugstores. You can
buy it for less at some birth control clinics.
A very small number of women suffer more serious side
effects. There is a risk of getting heart attacks, strokes, blood clots
in the veins, or liver tumors. As you get older, you are at higher risk
for having these problems. If you smoke or have high blood pressure, the
risk is even higher.
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Cervical Cap
What is a cervical cap?
A cervical cap is a form of birth control. You put it into
your vagina before you have vaginal sex. You can use it to try not to get
pregnant.
A cervical cap is a cup made of rubber. It’s shaped
like a thimble. A doctor or nurse can tell you what size of cervical cap
you need. They will also show you how to use it. A cervical cap fits snugly
over the cervix. It forms a seal over the cervix, like a suction cup. The
cervix is the opening to the uterus. Once the cap is in you should feel
comfortable. A cervical cap has to be used with spermicidal jelly or cream.
Spermicidal jelly or cream kills sperm. When sperm is killed, your chances
of getting pregnant are lower.
How does a cervical cap work?
The cervical cap works in two ways:
- It holds the spermicidal jelly or cream that kills
sperm close to the cervix. The cervix is the opening to the uterus.
- It works as a barrier. It forms a seal over the cervix.
It stops sperm from going into the cervix.
How effective is a cervical cap?
Out of 100 women who use the cervical cap, between 73 and
95 women will not get pregnant. Your chances of getting pregnant are lower
when you use the cervical cap correctly and all of the time. You have to
use it every time you have vaginal sex. You are less likely to get pregnant
when you use the cervical cap with a condom or another kind of birth control.
How do you use a cervical cap?
- Read the instructions that come with the cervical
cap.
- Put the cervical cap in at least one hour before you
have vaginal sex.
- Check that the cap is still in place each time before
you have sex and each time after you have sex. If you have sex, cough
deeply, play sports, or have a bowel movement, these activities may cause
the cap to come off. If the cap comes off a lot, get your doctor or nurse
to check it for size and fit.
- If you have sex again, leave the cervical cap in.
- Leave the cap in for six to eight hours after you
last had sex. This is so that the spermicide can kill the sperm.
- Do not use the cap during your period.
You should go to your doctor or nurse to have your cap
checked if you have given birth, have had a miscarriage, have had an abortion,
or if your cap feels uncomfortable, because you may need a new size. It’s
a good idea to get a PAP smear after you have used the cap for six months.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of the cervical
cap?
Advantages:
- It is not expensive.
- You only have to use it when you need it.
- It may protect you from some sexually transmitted
infections (STI’s).
- You don’t feel it. Your partner doesn’t
feel it.
- You don’t have to interrupt sex to put it in.
- Your partner doesn’t have to be involved.
- It doesn’t cause any changes in your body.
- You usually only need to get a new one every six months.
- It doesn’t cause any changes in your body.
Disadvantages
- Some women find it hard to put in or take out.
- The spermicide cream or jelly might irritate you.
- You can’t use it during your period.
- A doctor or nurse has to fit it. This is done in the
middle of your cycle.
- The cap does not fit all women.
- You have to clean it and take care of it each time
you use it.
- You need to use extra jelly or cream if you have sex
again.
- You need to feel comfortable with putting it in your
vagina.
- If you have a PAP test that is not normal, you may
not be able to use it.
- You may be at more risk of getting Toxic Shock Syndrome.
Where can you get a cervical cap?
You need to go to a doctor or nurse to find out the right
size of cap for you. However, you don’t need a prescription to buy
one. In Canada, you can only buy a cervical cap in a few places. You can
buy spermicidal jelly or cream at any drug store or birth control clinic.
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Depo-Provera
What is Depo-Provera?
Depo-Provera is a form of birth control. It is given by
injection. You can get an injection every three months to prevent yourself
from getting pregnant. Women in more than 100 countries, including the
United States use Depo-Provera as birth control. The World Health Organization
approved it as a method of birth control in 1993. Depo-Provera has been
used as a birth control method in Canada for many years, but only in 1997
did it receive official approval as a birth control method.
How does Depo-Provera work?
If you use Depo-Provera, your ovaries will not release
an egg each month. It also affects the endometrium (lining of the uterus)
and makes the mucus found in the cervix thicker. The cervix is the opening
to the uterus.
How effective is Depo-Provera?
You have to get the injection every three months. Out of
100 women who use this method, about 99 of them will not get pregnant.
How do you use Depo-Provera?
Depo-Provera is a medication. A doctor will give you a
prescription. A doctor or nurse will give you the Depo-Provera. You must
go to a doctor or a clinic every three months for the injection.
- You will get the first shot when you are having your
period.
- You should use another kind of birth control for two
weeks after the first injection.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of
Depo-Provera?
Advantages:
- The chances of getting pregnant are very low.
- You only have to get an injection once every three
months.
- You might not get cramps before and during your period.
- You might not bleed as much during your period. Some
women stop having periods at all.
- You may use this method if you are breast feeding.
- Your chances of getting some kinds of cancer are lower.
- You might be able to use this method even if you cannot
use the birth control pill
- You don’t need to keep any birth control supplies
at home
Disadvantages:
- You will have irregular bleeding. Some women stop
having periods completely.
- It is an injection.
- You must go to the doctor or clinic every three months
for the injection.
- If you are late in getting your injection, your chances
of getting pregnant are higher.
- You might get some side effects like headaches, dizziness,
bloating, tender breasts, mood changes and weight gain.
- You are not protected against sexually transmitted
infections (STIs).
- If you want to get pregnant in the future, it may
take you up to two years after getting the last Depo-Provera injection.
- Women at risk for osteoporosis (a disease causing
brittle bones) may not be able to use this method.
Where can you get Depo-Provera?
Birth control clinics and physicians can provide Depo-Provera.
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Diaphragm
What is a diaphragm?
A diaphragm is a form of birth control. You put it into
your vagina before you have vaginal sex. You can use it to try not to get
pregnant.
A diaphragm is a shallow cup made of rubber. It’s shaped like a dome.
It has a rim that is flexible. A doctor or nurse can tell you what size of
diaphragm you need. They will also show you how to use it. A diaphragm is placed
deep in the vagina. Once it is in, it should feel comfortable. A diaphragm
has to be used with spermicidal jelly or cream. Spermicidal jelly and cream
kill sperm. When the sperm is killed, your chances of getting pregnant are
lower.
How does a diaphragm work?
The diaphragm works in two ways:
- It holds the spermicidal jelly or cream that kills
sperm close to the cervix. The cervix is the opening to the uterus.
- It works as a barrier. It covers the cervix. It stops
sperm from going into the cervix.
How effective is a diaphragm?
Out of 100 women who use a diaphragm, about 85 will not
get pregnant. Your chances of getting pregnant are lower when you use the
diaphragm correctly and all of the time. You have to use it every time
you have vaginal sex. You are less likely to get pregnant when you use
the diaphragm with a condom or another method of birth control.
How do you use a diaphragm?
- Read the instructions that come with the diaphragm.
- Put the diaphragm in up to six hours before you have
vaginal sex. If you plan to have vaginal sex more than six hours after
you put the diaphragm in, you need to add more spermicide.
- If you have sex again, leave the diaphragm in. Put
more jelly or cream into your vagina, using an applicator, before you
have sex. Do this each time you have sex again.
- Leave the diaphragm in for six to eight hours after
you last had sex. This is so that the spermicide can kill the sperm.
- If you want, you can use a special introducer to help
you put the diaphragm in and take it out.
You should go to your doctor or nurse to have your diaphragm
checked if you have given birth, have had a miscarriage, have had an abortion,
have gained or lost 10 pounds or more, have had surgery in your pelvic
area, or if your diaphragm feels uncomfortable, because you may need a
new size.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of a diaphragm?
Advantages:
- It is not expensive.
- You only have to use it when you need it.
- It may protect you from some sexually transmitted
infections (STI’s).
- You don’t feel it. Your partner doesn’t
feel it.
- You don’t have to interrupt sex to put it in.
- Your partner doesn’t have to be involved.
- It doesn’t cause any changes in your body.
- You usually only need to get a new one every year
or two.
Disadvantages:
- Some women find it hard to put in or take out.
- The spermicide cream or jelly might irritate you.
- A doctor or nurse has to fit it.
- The diaphragm does not fit all women.
- You have to clean it and take care of it each time
you use it.
- You need to use extra jelly or cream if you have sex
again.
- You need to feel comfortable with putting it into
your vagina.
- You may have more risk of getting urinary tract infections.
- You may be at more risk of getting Toxic Shock Syndrome.
Where can you get a diaphragm?
You need to go to a doctor or nurse to find out the
right size of diaphragm for you. However, you don’t need a prescription
to buy one. You can buy a diaphragm and spermicidal jelly or cream at
any drug store or birth control clinic.
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Emergency Contraceptive Pill (ECP)
What is the Emergency Contraceptive Pill?
The Emergency Contraceptive Pill is an emergency method
of birth control. It is 2 sets of 2 pills that you must start to take within
72 hours after you had sex where you think that you may have become pregnant.
A doctor must give you a prescription. The Emergency Contraceptive Pill
will not stop a pregnancy which may have occurred from sexual intercourse
over 72 hours ago. Use of the Emergency Contraceptive Pill is not linked
to birth defects.
How does the Emergency Contraceptive Pill work?
The Emergency Contraceptive Pill affects the lining of
the uterus. An egg that has been fertilized cannot continue to develop.
It might also take longer for an egg to be released.
How effective is the Emergency Contraceptive Pill?
Out of 100 women who use the Emergency Contraceptive Pill,
about 96 do not get pregnant. You should take it within 72 hours after
you had sex without birth control. After you take it you need to use another
kind of birth control every time you have vaginal sex.
How do you use the Emergency Contraceptive Pill?
If you are able to take the birth control pill safely,
you can take the Emergency Contraceptive Pill. You take four pills in all.
You take two pills right away. After that, you take two more pills 12 hours
later.
You might get an upset stomach and you might throw up.
It is important that you take one Gravol tablet 30 minutes before you take
the second set of pills. You should eat something before you take the second
set of pills. You can also take the second set of pills with a glass of
milk.
If you throw up within an hour of taking a set of pills,
call your doctor or clinic. You may need to take another set of pills.
You might bleed a bit after taking the Emergency Contraceptive Pill. This
may not be your period. The Emergency Contraceptive Pill may make your
period come earlier or later than usual.
If your period is three weeks late or if it is different,
call your doctor or clinic. You may need a pregnancy test.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of the Emergency
Contraceptive Pill?
Advantages:
- You can use it if you had sex without using birth
control.
- You can use it if the birth control method you used
didn’t work.
- Your chances of getting pregnant are very low.
- Most women can use it safely.
Disadvantages:
- You might throw up or feel sick.
- You may bleed between periods.
- You might feel pain.
- You might have diarrhea.
- Your chances of having an ectopic pregnancy are higher.
An ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy outside of the uterus in the wrong
place.
Some women might have more serious side effects.
Talk to your doctor about the risk of side effects before you use the
Emergency Contraceptive Pill.
Where can you get the Emergency Contraceptive Pill?
You can get the Emergency Contraceptive Pill from
most doctors, hospitals, or birth control clinics. Call them first to
make sure they have it.
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Fertility Awareness Methods
What are fertility awareness methods?
Fertility awareness methods are different methods you can
use to figure out when you can get pregnant. You can use these methods
to try not to get pregnant.
How do fertility awareness methods work?
If you use these methods, you can figure out when your
chances of getting pregnant are highest. If you do not want to get pregnant
during this time then do not have vaginal sex; or use another method of
birth control, like condoms.
How effective are fertility awareness methods?
Out of 100 women who use fertility awareness methods, between
80 and 99 do not get pregnant. Your chances of getting pregnant are lower
when you use fertility awareness methods correctly and all of the time.
You are less likely to get pregnant when using these methods with a condom,
a spermicide, or another kind of birth control.
How do you use fertility awareness methods?
Your chances of getting pregnant are higher when you release
an egg during ovulation. You can plan to not have sex when your chances
of getting pregnant are higher. There are four fertility awareness methods.
They are calendar charting, basal body temperature (BBT) charting, cervical
mucus charting and sympto-thermal charting. Your chances of getting pregnant
are lower when you use two or more methods at the same time. Make sure
a doctor, nurse or counsellor teaches you how to use fertility awareness
methods before you try them.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of fertility
awareness methods?
Advantages:
- They are not expensive.
- They don’t cause any changes in your body.
- There are no side effects.
- You and your partner(s) may learn more about when
women can get pregnant.
- These are natural ways of trying not to get pregnant.
- You can also use them when you want to get pregnant.
Disadvantages:
- You need to learn how to use them.
- It takes time and effort to use them.
- You may not be able to have vaginal sex at some times
of the month.
- If you don’t have regular cycles, these methods
may not work.
- You are not protected against sexually transmitted
infections (STI’s).
- If you are ill or under stress, your menstrual cycle
may change. You might not be able to rely on these methods.
- You need to be comfortable with your own body to use
some of these methods.
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IUD (Intrauterine Device)
What is an IUD?
An Intrauterine Device (IUD) is a small piece of plastic
that is inserted by a doctor into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. It is
approximately 1½ inches (3- cm) in length. There are several different
types of IUDs. The most common IUD is T-shaped and coated with copper.
This can be left in the uterus for up to two years or longer. Another type
of IUD contains a hormone (progestin) but it needs to be replaced once
a year. Attached to the IUD are two plastic threads or strings that hang
down through the cervix into the vagina. The cervix is the opening to the
uterus. The threads or strings do not hang outside the body.
The IUD can also be used as an emergency method of birth
control. If an IUD is inserted within seven days after unprotected vaginal
sex it may prevent a pregnancy.
How does an IUD work?
Exactly how the IUD works to prevent pregnancy is not fully
understood.
The IUD may:
- Cause slight inflammation of the lining of the uterus
so that a fertilized egg cannot implant
- Interfere with the movement of sperm
- Speed up the movement of the egg through the Fallopian
tube
How effective is an IUD?
The IUD is 97-99% effective in preventing pregnancy.
How do you use an IUD?
A doctor or nurse must do insertion of an IUD. It is usually
done when you are on your period. The doctor or nurse will perform a pelvic
exam and check to see where your uterus is positioned. They will then insert
a speculum into your vagina to see your cervix and then wash your cervix
with an antiseptic solution. Next an IUD is put into your uterus and the
strings are cut just below your cervix. IUD insertion can be uncomfortable.
You may want to take pain pills before you have an IUD inserted. A doctor
or a nurse must do removal of an IUD. Do not try to remove an IUD yourself.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of an IUD?
Advantages:
- Highly effective in preventing pregnancy.
- Inexpensive.
- Does not interrupt sex.
- Does not require partner’s involvement.
- Can be used for a long period of time.
- Can be used as an emergency method of birth control.
Disadvantages:
- Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections
(STIs).
- If you get a sexually transmitted infection, the IUD
could increase the likelihood of developing pelvic inflammatory disease
(infection of the reproductive organs), which may lead to infertility.
- May increase the likelihood of ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy
outside the uterus).
- Can cause heavier and more painful periods.
- Cramping and discomfort during insertion.
- There are risks during insertion and removal that
your doctor should discuss with you before inserting an IUD.
It is important to use condoms with the IUD to decrease
the risk of getting a sexually transmitted infection.
Where can you get an IUD?
Most birth control clinics can insert an IUD.
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Lea's Shield
What is Lea’s Shield?
Lea’s Shield is a barrier method of birth control.
You put it into your vagina before you have vaginal sex. You can use it
to try not to get pregnant. Lea’s Shield is made of a rubber-like
material (silicone), not latex. It’s shaped like a dome and fits
snugly over the cervix which is the opening to the uterus (womb). There
is a valve along the bottom of Lea’s Shield to help the shield attach
to the cervix. There is a loop at the front of the shield which is used
to help remove it. Once Lea’s Shield is in, you should feel comfortable.
Lea’s Shield has to be used with spermicidal jelly (not foam) to
kill the sperm. When sperm is killed, your chances of getting pregnant
are lower.
How does Lea’s Shield work?
Lea’s Shield works in two ways:
- It holds the spermicidal jelly that kills sperm close
to the cervix
- It works as a barrier. It forms a seal over the cervix
to stop sperm from going into the cervix.
How effective is Lea’s Shield?
The company that makes Lea’s Shield states that out
of 100 women, 95 will not get pregnant. Lea’s Shield is a new kind
of birth control so this is not known for sure. Please read and follow
the instructions that come with Lea’s Shield. Your chances of getting
pregnant are lower when you use Lea’s Shield correctly. You have
to use it every time you have vaginal sex. You are less likely to get pregnant
when you use Lea’s Shield with a condom or another kind of birth
control.
How do you use Lea’s Shield?
- Read the instructions that come with Lea’s Shield.
- Put Lea’s Shield in place before vaginal sex.
- After vaginal sex it should be left in place for 6-8
hours so that the spermicide can kill the sperm.
- Check that Lea’s Shield is still in place each
time before and after sex.
- Lea’s Shield can only be in the vagina for a
total of 48 hours.
- It’s a good idea to have a pap smear after you
have used Lea’s Shield for six months
What are the advantages and disadvantages of Lea’s
Shield?
Advantages:
- It comes in one size only so you do not need to be
fitted by a doctor or nurse
- You only have to use it when you need it.
- It may protect you from some sexually transmitted
infections (STI’s).
- You shouldn’t feel it. Your partner shouldn’t
feel it.
- You don’t have to interrupt sex to put it in.
- Your partner doesn’t have to be involved.
- It doesn’t cause any changes in your body.
- You usually only need to get a new one every six months.
- You can easily carry it in your purse.
Disadvantages:
- It is expensive.
- Some women find it hard to put in or take out.
- The spermicidal jelly might irritate you.
- You have to clean it and take care of it each time
you use it.
- You need to feel comfortable with your body
- If you have a PAP test that is not normal, you may
not be able to use it.
Where can you get Lea’s Shield?
You don’t need a prescription to buy one. You can
buy Lea’s Shield in drug stores. There is a tube of spermicidal jelly
that comes with Lea’s Shield. You can buy spermicidal jelly from
drug stores or at birth control clinics.
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Norplant® Implant
What are Norplant® Implants?
Norplant® implants are a form of birth control. Norplant® implants
are soft, flexible, plastic rods. Each implant is the size of a matchstick.
You have them put into your arm to try to not get pregnant. They can stay
in your arm for five years. A doctor puts six rods just under the skin,
in the inside of your upper arm. Each capsule has a very low dose of synthetic
progesterone. The hormone works slowly over the course of five years.
How do Norplant® implants work?
The hormone goes into the woman’s blood. It stops
the ovary from releasing an egg. It also makes the mucus found in the cervix
thicker. It makes it hard for sperm to reach and fertilize any egg that
might be released.
How effective are Norplant® implants?
Out of 100 women who use this method, 99 of them will not
get pregnant. Your chances of getting pregnant are higher if you weigh
more than 154 pounds.
How do you use Norplant® implants?
A doctor will put the Norplant® implants in. This takes
about 15 minutes. It can be done in a doctor’s office. First, the
doctor or the nurse will give you medication to freeze the area of your
arm where the rods will go. They will put six rods under your arm, placed
like a fan.
- You don’t need stitches.
- They will put a small bandage over the tiny cut.
- You might feel that the implant area is very sensitive.
- You might get bruises in the implant area.
After you have Norplant® implants inserted, you
may notice that:
- Your period is longer.
- You bleed between your periods.
- You don’t bleed as much during your period.
- You don’t bleed at all.
You may also notice side effects like:
- Headaches.
- Nervousness.
- Gain or loss of weight.
- Changes in how your hair grows.
- Dizziness.
- Tender breasts.
- Changes in your appetite.
- Changes in skin colour where the rods are.
Once you have the rods removed, the side effects are gone.
You can get pregnant once you have the rods removed. A doctor has to remove
the Norplant® implants. You can have them removed any time during the
five years. It takes about 30 minutes to have them removed.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of Norplant® implants?
Advantages:
- You can use them for up to five years at a time.
- You can get pregnant right after you have the rods
removed. You don’t have to wait.
- You don’t need any other kind of birth control.
- You don’t feel them when you have sex.
- Your partner(s) doesn’t have to be involved.
- Women who cannot use a birth control method that contains
the hormone estrogen can use it.
Disadvantages:
- Bleeding during your period might be irregular.
- It is expensive. It might cost between $350 and $500.
- You are not protected against sexually transmitted
infections (STI’s).
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Protectaid Sponge
What is the Protectaid sponge?
The Protectaid sponge is a form of birth control. You put
it into your vagina before you have vaginal sex. You can use it to help
prevent yourself from getting pregnant.
The sponge is a soft, round piece of foam. It has foam handles around the sponge
so that you can pull it out. A doctor or nurse can show you how to use it.
The sponge works as a barrier, covering the cervix which is the opening to
the uterus (womb). The sponge holds three different spermicides which kill
sperm. It may also kill bacteria and viruses that cause sexually transmitted
infections. When sperm is killed, your chances of getting pregnant are lower.
How does the sponge work?
The sponge works in four ways:
- It holds spermicide close to the cervix.
- Do not have sex or douche or use a tampon for 24 hours
before a colposcopy.
- The spermicide kills sperm.
- It works like a sponge. It absorbs and traps sperm.
- It works as a barrier. It covers the cervix and stops
sperm from getting into the cervix.
How effective is the sponge?
Out of 100 women who use the sponge, 75-90 women
will not get pregnant. Your chances of getting pregnant are lower when
you use the sponge correctly. You have to use it every time you have
vaginal sex. You are less likely to get pregnant when you use the sponge
with a condom or another kind of birth control.
How do you use the sponge?
- Read and follow the instructions that come with the
sponge.
- Put the sponge in before you have vaginal sex.
- You can put it in up to 6 hours before you have vaginal
sex.
- If you have sex again, leave the sponge in. You can
have sex as many times as you want within 12 hours without changing the
sponge.
- Leave the sponge in for 6-8 hours after you last had
sex. This is so the spermicide can kill the sperm.
- Do not use the sponge when you have your period.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of the
sponge?
Advantages:
- You don’t need to see a doctor or nurse to get
it.
- You only use it when you need it.
- It may protect you from some sexually transmitted
infections.
- You shouldn’t feel it. Your partner shouldn’t
feel it.
- You don’t have to interrupt sex to put it in.
- Your partner doesn’t have to be involved.
- It doesn’t cause any changes in your body.
- You can easily carry it in your pocket or your purse.
Disadvantages:
- It can be expensive if you use it a lot.
- Some women find it hard to put it in or take it out.
- You can’t use it during your period.
- You need to feel comfortable with your body.
- You cannot use it if you or your partner(s) are allergic
to spermicides.
- If you have a PAP test that is not normal, you may
not be able to use it.
- You may be at more risk of getting Toxic Shock Syndrome.
Where can you get the sponge?
You can buy the Protectaid sponge at the drug store or
birth control clinic. You don’t need to see a doctor or a nurse to
get one.
It is important to use condoms or a latex barrier with
your sexual partner(s) to decrease the risk of getting a sexually transmitted
infection
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Spermicide
What is a spermicide?
A spermicide is a form of birth control. You put it into
your vagina before you have vaginal sex. You can use it to try not to get
pregnant.
Spermicides have two parts:
- A spermicidal chemical, usually nonoxynol-9. Nonoxynol-9
kills sperm. It may also kill bacteria and viruses that cause sexually
transmitted infections
- Foam, cream, film or jelly suppository which holds
the spermicide in the vagina near the cervix. The cervix is the opening
to the uterus.
How does a spermicide work?
Spermicides contain a chemical that kills sperm.
How effective is a spermicide?
Out of 100 women who use spermicide, between 79 and 97
will not get pregnant. Your chances of getting pregnant are lower when
you use the spermicide correctly. You have to use it every time you have
vaginal sex. You are less likely to get pregnant when you use the spermicide
with a condom or another kind of birth control. Out of 100 women who use
spermicide and condoms together, 98 will not get pregnant.
How do you use a spermicide?
Before using a spermicide, read the instructions that
come with it and check the expiry date. More spermicide should be put into
the vagina before each time you have sex. If you are using the foam, cream
or jelly suppository, they may taste bad. If you have oral sex before vaginal
sex, put the spermicide in after oral sex . After having sex, leave the
spermicide in for at least six to eight hours. If you are walking around,
put a tampon in, to keep the spermicide in place. You can shower. Do not
have a tub bath, swim, or douche. Spermicides are washed away with normal
vaginal secretions.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of spermicides?
Advantages:
- You don’t need to see a doctor or nurse to get
it.
- You only use it when you need it.
- It may protect you from some sexually transmitted
infections (STI’s).
- Your partner doesn’t have to be involved.
- It doesn’t cause any changes in your body.
- You can use it with other methods of birth control
to lower your chances of getting pregnant.
- Some may lubricate your vagina during sexual intercourse.
Disadvantages:
- It is more effective if you use it with another method
of birth control.
- You need to feel comfortable with putting it into
your vagina.
- It may irritate your vaginal area.
- Some may taste bad.
- Some can be messy.
- You cannot use it if you or your partner(s) are allergic
to spermicides.
Where can you get spermicides?
You can buy spermicides at a drugstore or birth control
clinic.
It is important to use condoms or a latex barrier
with your sexual partner(s) to decrease the risk of getting a sexually
transmitted infection.
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Sterilization
How does sterilization work?
Women
- Sterilization blocks a woman’s Fallopian tubes.
The Fallopian tubes cannot carry eggs to the uterus any more. The eggs
have no way of coming in contact with sperm.
Men
- Sterilization blocks the tube that carries sperm from
a man’s testicles. The man still ejaculates but there is no sperm
in the fluid that comes out of his penis. Sterilization is quick and
easy for men. It can be done in a doctor’s office. It can be done
with only a local anaesthetic. There are fewer risks for men than for
women.
How effective is sterilization?
Out of 100 people who are sterilized, less than 1 percent
will get pregnant.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of sterilization?
Advantages:
- It is a very effective kind of birth control.
- It is permanent.
- You don’t have to interrupt vaginal intercourse.
- You don’t need any other kind of birth control.
- For women, it works right away.
- For men, it can be done right in a doctor’s
office.
Disadvantages:
- It is permanent.
- You have to have surgery.
- There are some risks to surgery, especially for women.
- There is a risk of infection.
- You may feel some pain after surgery.
- It does not protect you from sexually transmitted
infections (STI’s).
- It does not work right away for men. You have to wait
for the sperm level to go down before it works.
Where can you get information about sterilization?
You can find out more from a doctor or a birth control
clinic.
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Vaginal Contraceptive Film (VCF)
What is Vaginal Contraceptive Film (VCF)?
VCF is a form of birth control. You put it in your vagina
before you have vaginal sex. It is a very thin 2 by 2 inch square film.
It dissolves very quickly. VCF is not as messy as contraceptive foam or
gel.
How does VCF work?
- VCF acts as a barrier to stop sperm from going into
the cervix. Each film contains Nonoxyl-9 which is a spermicide that kills
sperms. Nonoxyl-9 also may kill bacteria and viruses that cause sexually
transmitted infections (STI’s).
- Out of 100 women who use VCF between 79 and 97 will
not get pregnant.
- Your chances of getting pregnant are lower when you
use VCF correctly.
- Your chances are also lowered when you use VCF with
a condom or another birth control method. You have to use a new VCF each
time you have vaginal sex. Each film is effective for approximately 90
minutes.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of VCF?
Advantages:
- It starts working immediately after you put it in.
- You and your partner should not feel it.
- Your partner does not have to be involved.
- It does not cause any changes in your body.
- You can use it with other methods of birth control
to lower your chances of getting pregnant.
- It may protect you from some sexually transmitted
infections (STI’s).
- It can be carried easily and discreetly.
- You use it only when you need it.
- You don’t need to see a doctor or a nurse to
get it.
Disadvantages:
- It may irritate your vagina.
- You have to put it in each time you have sex.
- You need to feel comfortable putting it in your vagina.
- You should not use it if you or your partner are allergic
to spermicides.
How do you use VCF?
Read and follow the instructions and check the expiry date
before using it. Put VCF in your vagina before each time you have vaginal
sex (up to 15 minutes before).
Where can you get VCF?
You can buy VCF at some pharmacies.
It is important to use condoms or a latex barrier with
your sexual partner(s) to decrease the risk of getting a sexually transmitted
infection.
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Withdrawal
What is withdrawal?
Withdrawal is a form of birth control. During sex, the
man takes his penis out of a woman’s vagina before he ejaculates.
When a man ejaculates he releases a fluid called semen. Sperm is found
in semen.
How does withdrawal work?
During vaginal sex, the man pulls his penis out before
he ejaculates. Then, he ejaculates away from the woman’s vagina and
vaginal area.
How effective is the withdrawal method?
There isn’t very much information about how good
the withdrawal method when used as birth control. Some research shows that
out of 100 women whose partner is using withdrawal, about 80 will not get
pregnant.
There are many reasons why withdrawal does not always work.
Men cannot always control when they are going to ejaculate. Even before
they ejaculate, men release a clear liquid from their penis which they
may not be aware of. This is called pre-ejaculate. The pre-ejaculate also
has sperm in it. If a woman gets pre-ejaculate in her vagina, she could
become pregnant. Withdrawal may work better if the pre-ejaculate is wiped
off before the penis is inserted into the vagina.
Withdrawal will not work well if you have sex at the time
of the month when you are likely to get pregnant. Withdrawal is a better
form of birth control if you use it with another kind of birth control,
like condoms and spermicidal foam.
Withdrawal does not protect you or your partner against
sexually transmitted infections (STI’s). You can pass on or get a
STI from pre-ejaculate.
How do you use withdrawal?
When the man feels he is about to ejaculate, he should
take his penis out of the woman’s vagina. He should ejaculate away
from the woman’s vagina and vaginal area. If you think some ejaculate
has gotten into your vagina, put some spermicide into your vagina right
away. Your chances of getting pregnant may be lowered.
If you have used withdrawal and are concerned about pregnancy,
there are two options:
- You can take the emergency contraceptive pill within
72 hours of the intercourse.
- You can ask about having an IUD put in within 1 week
of the intercourse.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of withdrawal?
Advantages:
- It is better than using no birth control at all.
- It is not expensive.
- You don’t need to see a doctor to use it.
- You only use it when you need it, i.e. during intercourse.
- It doesn’t cause any changes in your body.
Disadvantages:
- You and your partner(s) are not protected against
sexually transmitted infections (STI’s), including HIV.
- You might get pregnant.
- You need to negotiate with your partner that you will
both interrupt or stop sexual intercourse before ejaculation.
- You will have to stop sexual intercourse suddenly.
Where can you get information about withdrawal?
You can ask a nurse, doctor, or counsellor about using
withdrawal and other kinds of birth control.
It is important to use condoms or a latex barrier with
your sexual partner(s) to decrease the risk of getting a sexually transmitted
infection.
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