Birth Control is any means used to prevent used to pregnancy during intercourse. The various types of types of birth control range in effectiveness. In fact, many suggest using more than one type to limit the chances of conception.http://www.avert.org/birth-control-contraception.htm
Most types of birth control fall under three specific categories, including hormonal, surgical, and barrier methods. As of now, the only way to prevent STDs is through a barrier method, condoms being the most effective.http://www.healthsquare.com/fgwh/wh1ch21.htm
The Difference between Contraception and Birth Control
Contraception is the use of devices, drugs, agents, sexual practices or surgical procedures to prevent conception or pregnancy. The difference between contraception and birth control is that contraception allows women to plan when they want to have children. Currently, there is only one form that prevents both pregnancy and STDs and that is condoms.http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/162762.php
Birth Control, on the other hand, involves one or more actions, devices, sexual practices, and/or medications that are practiced to purposely stop or reduce the chance of pregnancy or childbirth.http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/162762.php
Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before using Birth Control.
Choosing the Right Birth Control
The type of birth control you choose will depend on your personal needs. For instance, if you're a woman with endometriosis, you will need to go with a birth control pill because it will stop the pain that is associated with the condition. If you choose to go with a pill or patch, remember to discuss the side effects with your doctor. It is best to research the different types of birth control you're interested in before visiting a doctor. In doing so, you'll be more prepared to ask the necessary questions to ensure this method is right for you.http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/women/contraceptive/016.html
If you're still unsure or having trouble deciding what's best, there are some online resources available to help. The Association of Reproductive Health Professionals offer an online test that will help you decide what birth control is right for you.http://www.arhp.org/crc/
Over-the-Counter Birth Control
This video is dedicated to over-the-counter birth control. The video introduces Alice W. Ko, M.D, an Obstetrics and Gynecology Doctor at Johns Hopkins. She reviews male and female condoms, the sponge, and spermicide. She goes over the pros and cons of each choice and how to choose the best one for you and your partner’s needs.
References
Fast Facts
-
Leading Birth Control Method (Among Women 15-29)
The Birth Control Pill
-
Percentage of Women Aged 15-44 Using a Birth Control Pill
19%
-
Live Births in 2009
4,058,000
-
Percent of Women Age 16 to 44 Who Use Birth Control
64%
-
New Cases of STDs Reported Each Year
15,300,000
