Birth Control Methods
Learn more about all the birth control methods available to you - what they are, how they work, their side effects, their advantages and disadvantages.
- Abstinence 1,2,3
- Birth control pill
- Condoms
- Contraceptive Foam
- Depo-Provera
- Diaphragm
- Emergency contraceptive pill/morning after pill (ECP)
- Transdermal - Contraceptive Patch (the Patch)
- Female Condoms
- Fertility Awareness
- Intrauterine Device (IUD)
- Sponge
- Vaginal Contraceptive Film (VCF)
- Withdrawal
Abstinence 1,2,3
- What is it?
- Why do people choose to be abstinent?
- Abstinence: things to think about
- Abstinence 1,2,3
1. What is it?
Abstinence means you've decided not to have any kind of sexual activity that involves an exchange of body fluids (semen or cum, and vaginal fluids.) This includes oral, vaginal, and anal sex.
Not all people who choose to abstain are virgins. You might have had sex and then decide to stop having sex for a while for your own personal reasons.
Whether you have sex or not is YOUR choice.
2. Why do people choose to be abstinent?
There are many reasons why people choose to be abstinent. For some it's about following religious, personal or moral beliefs. Others abstain because it's the safest way to avoid getting an STI, HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis B or an unwanted pregnancy. It's really about setting your own limits and feeling good about your decision. You don't have to have sex just because everyone else is doing it! And who knows, you may find new ways to be intimate with your partner without having sex.
3. Abstinence: things to think about
- Make sure your decision not to have sex is based on facts
- Talk with your partner about your decision to be abstinent
- Plan ahead, so that you and your partner have set limits on how far you're going to go
- Respect the decisions you and your partner have made.
4. Abstinence 1, 2, 3
If abstinence is the decision you've made, remember:
- Abstinence takes a commitment from you and your partner.
- Think ahead before getting into a sexual situation.
- Talk with your partner about your decision and discuss other ways to be intimate.
If you want to learn more, download the factsheet on Abstinence (40KB, 1 page).
Birth control pill
- What is it and how does it work?
- How effective is it?
- Does it protect you against STIs or HIV/AIDS?
- What are the side effects?
- How do you use it?
- When should back-up methods be used?
- Advantages and disadvantages of the pill
- Where can I get it?
1. What is it and how does it work?
It's an oral medication that a woman takes to prevent an unwanted pregnancy. It's also known as 'the pill.'
The birth control pill contains hormones that prevent pregnancy by:
- Stopping ovulation.
- Making the mucus in the cervix thicker so that it's harder for sperm to travel into the cervix.
- Making the lining of the uterus thinner so that it's harder for a fertilized egg to attach to the uterus.
2. How effective is it?
When used the right way, the pill is 92 to 99.7% effective in preventing pregnancy. But it must be taken at the same time every day. If you miss a day or so, you increase your chances of getting pregnant.
3. Does it protect you against STIs or HIV/AIDS?
The birth control pill alone does not protect you against STIs or HIV/AIDS. Using the pill and condoms at the same time can reduce your chances of getting an STI or HIV/AIDS.
4. What are the side effects?
They're different for everyone, but they can include:
- Bleeding between periods (break-through bleeding)
- Upset stomach or nausea
- Weight gain/bloating caused by water retention
- Headaches
- Mood swings
- Sore breasts
- Lighter and/or shorter periods, or missed periods
- Decrease in some vitamin levels - so make sure you eat a well balanced diet
If you're taking the pill, you should not smoke. Though rare, women who take the pill and smoke have a higher chance of developing a blood clot. There are signs that might indicate a blood clot, so get to know them:
- Severe leg pain in the calf or thigh
- Severe chest pain, cough, shortness of breath
- Severe headache, dizziness, weakness and numbness
- Loss of vision or blurring
- Slurring of speech
If you have any signs of a blood clot, go to a hospital right away.
5. How do you use it?
Birth control pills come in packs for 21 or 28 days.
If you get a 21 day pill pack:
- You take one pill at the same time each day for 21 days - these pills contain hormones.
- Then for 7 days you don't take any pills - you should get your period during this time.
- Start a new pack of pills after 7 days, whether or not your period is finished.
If you get a 28 day pill pack:
- You take one pill at the same time each day for 28 days - for 21 days you take hormone pills and for 7 days you take pills that do not contain hormones.
- Your chances of getting pregnant are not increased during the 7 days you're not on the hormone pills.
- Your period will start during those last 7 pills.
- Start a new pack of pills whether or not your period is finished.
6. When should back-up methods be used?
If you're taking the pill, you'll need to also use condoms if:
- You're taking certain prescriptions or over-the-counter medications.
- You're starting the birth control pill for the first time.
- You've missed taking the pill for a day or so.
- You vomit or have diarrhea within one hour of taking a pill (it may not have gone into your system).
7. Advantages and disadvantages of the pill
Advantages
When used correctly, the pill is 97 to 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. You'll have a regular period and you might experience less bleeding.
Disadvantages
- It does not protect you or your partner against STIs or HIV/AIDS.
- You need a prescription from a doctor to get the pill.
- If you have certain health problems you may not be able to take the pill.
- It can be expensive, especially at pharmacies.
8. Where can I get it?
The birth control pill is sold at a Peel Public Health Healthy Sexuality Clinic at a reduced cost. You need to make an appointment to see a doctor at the clinic before you can buy the pill.
You can also buy it at any pharmacy as long as you have a prescription from a doctor.
If you want to learn more, download the factsheet on Birth Control Pill (43KB, 1 page).
Condoms
- What is it and how does it work?
- How effective is it?
- Does it protect you against STIs and HIV/AIDS?
- What are the side effects?
- How to use it
- Things to remember when using it
- Advantages and disadvantages of condoms
- Where can I get it?
1. What is it and how does it work?
A condom is a thin covering, usually made of latex rubber, which is put over a man's erect penis during oral, vaginal or anal sex. It prevents blood, semen or vaginal fluids from passing from one person to another. There's also a female condom available.
Sex is supposed to be pleasurable for both partners, so condoms come in all sorts of colours, shapes, sizes, flavours and textures to suit all tastes. You can get them with:
- No lubricant
- A water-based or silicone lubricant
- A spermicidal lubricant
2. How effective is it?
When used the right way, a condom is 85% to 98% effective in preventing pregnancy.
3. Does it protect you against STIs and HIV/AIDS?
Yes, if used correctly, condoms can reduce your chances of getting an STI and HIV/AIDS.
4. What are the side effects?
- You can experience skin irritation.
- There's the possibility of an allergic reaction to latex and/or spermicide.
- A woman can develop Vaginitis due to the additives in some flavoured condoms.
- Decreased sensation - you can put a drop of water-based lubricant in the tip of the condom to increase sensation.
5. How to use a male condom
- Wait until your penis gets hard, then carefully tear open the condom package. Don't use your teeth to open the wrapper!
- Watch out for rings and sharp fingernails that can tear the condom.
- Don't unroll or stretch a condom before putting it on as this can weaken it.
- If you have foreskin, pull it back before putting the condom on your penis.
- You can put a drop of water- based lubricant in the tip of the condom to increase sensation.
- Squeeze the tip of the condom to let out the air and then place it over the tip of the penis.
- Unroll the condom all the way down to the base of your penis.
- If you're using lube, use water-based lubricants like Astroglide, K-Y Jelly etc.
- Do not use oil-based lubricants like Vaseline, mineral oil, baby oil, vegetable oil, massage oil etc., as they can weaken the latex used in condoms.
Taking the condom off
- After you cum, hold the condom at the base of your penis and pull out before your penis gets soft - this will help stop the condom from slipping off.
- Be careful that no semen leaks out.
- Wrap the condom in a Kleenex and throw it in the garbage. Do not flush it down the toilet as it will probably clog the plumbing!
- Never re-use a condom!
6. Things to remember when using it
- Always check the expiry date on the condom package.
- Store condoms at room temperature, away from sunlight or extreme heat.
- Use water-based lubricants like Astroglide, K-Y Jelly etc.
- Don't use oil-based lubricants like Vaseline, mineral oil, baby oil, vegetable oil, massage oil etc., as they can weaken the latex used in condoms.
- When choosing coloured or flavoured condoms, make sure they're not being sold as novelties items as they might not prevent pregnancy or protect you from STIs.
- For anal sex, use extra-strength condoms and lots of water-based lubricant.
You can buy condoms from a pharmacy or get them for FREE at a Healthy Sexuality Clinic.
7. Advantages and disadvantages of condoms
Advantages
- They're free at a Healthy Sexuality Clinic.
- When used the right way, condoms protect you and your partner against many STIs including HIV/AIDS.
- They're easy to get, and you don't need a prescription from a doctor.
- They're easy to use.
- Condoms prevent unplanned pregnancy.
- There are male and female condoms.
- They can actually help you to stay hard longer.
Disadvantages
- There's the possibility of an allergic reaction to latex condoms.
- Decreased sensation - you can increase sensation by using a bit of water-based lubricant inside the tip of the condom.
- Female condoms are more expensive than male condoms.
8. Where can I get it?
You can get FREE condoms at a Peel Public Health Healthy Sexuality Clinic.
You can also buy condoms at pharmacies, convenience stores and some grocery stores.
If you want to learn more, download the factsheet on the Male Condom (67KB, 2 pages).
Contraceptive Foam
- What is it and how does it work?
- How effective is it?
- Does it protect you against STIs or HIV/AIDS?
- What are the side effects?
- How do you use it?
- Advantages and disadvantages of contraceptive foam
- Where can I get it?
1. What is and how does it work?
It's foam that contains a spermicide that kills sperm. You put it into the vagina before you have sex. The foam covers the folds in the vagina and forms a barrier between the sperm and the egg.
Depending on how well you use it, it can be 71% to 82% effective in preventing an unwanted pregnancy.
3. Does it protect you against STIs or HIV/AIDS?
Contraceptive Foam alone does not protect you against STIs or HIV/AIDS. Using Contraceptive Foam and condoms at the same time can reduce your chances of getting an infection.
4. What are the side effects?
The foam may cause burning or irritation of the vagina or penis which can result in pain when you pee or have sex. If you're having oral sex, it may leave a bad taste in your mouth. There's also the possibility of being allergic to spermicides.
5. How do you use it?
- Buy spermicidal foam that comes with an applicator at a Healthy Sexuality Clinic, or any pharmacy
- Shake the can 20 times before each use.
- Remove the lid and set the can on a level surface.
- Put the applicator on top of the can and press down gently - the foam will fill the applicator.
- Lie on your back with knees bent or stand with one foot on a chair.
- Separate the labia (lips) to find the opening of the vagina.
- Put a full applicator into the vagina as far as it will go - the applicator needs to make contact with the cervix, which for many women is deep in the vagina.
- Push plunger all the way in.
- Remove the applicator and wash it with soap and water.
6. Advantages and disadvantages of contraceptive foam
Advantages
- You don't need a prescription for it.
- It's available at most pharmacies and at a Healthy Sexuality Clinic.
- It's reasonably cheap.
- You only use it when you need it.
Disadvantages
- It does not protect you or your partner against STIs or HIV/AIDS.
- It should be used with another birth control method to be more effective.
- It may cause burning or irritation of the vagina or penis.
- It can have a bad taste if you're also having oral sex.
7. Where can I get it?
Contraceptive Foam is available at a Peel Public Health Healthy Sexuality Clinic, and your local pharmacy.
If you want to learn more, download the factsheet on the Contraceptive Foam (127KB, 2 pages).
Depo-Provera (Depo)
- What is it and how does it work?
- How effective is it?
- Does it protect you against STIs or HIV/AIDS?
- What are the side effects and what are the risks?
- How do you use it?
- Who should use it and who should not use it?
- Advantages and disadvantages of Depo
- Where can I get it?
1. What is it and how does it work?
It's a form of birth control that is used by women. You get an injection of 'Depo' every 12 weeks to prevent pregnancy.
Depo-Provera is a hormone that prevents pregnancy by:
- Stopping ovulation.
- Making the mucus in your cervix (opening to the uterus) thicker so that it's harder for sperm to travel into the cervix.
2. How effective is it?
Depo is 97 to 99.7% effective in preventing pregnancy if you get the injection every 12 weeks. If you wait longer than 13 weeks for your next injection, you increase the chances of getting pregnant. Use condoms or another form of birth control if you're late getting the next injection.
3. Does it protect you against STIs or HIV/AIDS?
Depo-Provera does not protect you or your partner from getting STIs or HIV/AIDS. Using Depo and condoms at the same time can reduce your chances of getting infected.
4. What are the side effects and the risks?
They're different for everyone, but the side effects include:
- Weight gain - between 5-8 pounds over 2 years.
- Irregular periods or no period at all. When you stop using Depo, your period will return to normal.
- It may take up to two years after the last injection to become pregnant (for most women, it's much sooner - around nine months.)
- Depression/nervousness.
- Weakness or feeling tired.
- Vaginal discharge or irritation.
- Headaches, nausea, aches, pains.
- Sore breasts.
- Less interest in sex.
Serious side effects are rare but if you have any of these signs, see a doctor right away:
- Sharp chest pain, coughing up blood or a sudden shortness of breath.
- Sudden severe headaches or vomiting, dizziness, fainting, problems with eyesight, speech, weakness or numbness in are or leg.
- Severe pain or swelling in the calf.
- Unusually heavy vaginal bleeding.
- Severe pain or tenderness in the lower abdominal area.
- Pain, pus or bleeding at the injection site.
- Allergic reactions are rare, but the symptoms include hives, itchiness, and/or difficulty breathing. This generally occurs within 15 minutes of receiving the injection.
What are the risks?
- It may decrease the amount of calcium in your bones, which increases the risk of osteoporosis (the disease that causes you bones to become weak over time and break easier.)
- If you use it for more than 2 years, you'll have to get a bone density test.
- Depo is not recommended for teens because the body is still growing and the bones require calcium.
Health Canada has issued warnings about Depo-Provera and how it affects bone density. You may have to take calcium and Vitamin D supplements.
5. How do you use it?
- Your doctor will give the first injection during the first five days of your period.
- After your first injection, you must go back to your doctor or clinic every 12 weeks for another injection.
- If you wait longer than 13 weeks for your next injection, you increase your chances of getting pregnant. If this is the case, make sure you use condoms or another form of birth control.
6. Who should use it and who should not use it?
Who should use it?
Make sure you talk to your doctor about Depo and if it's right for you. Then, you may decide to take Depo if you:
- Can't take the birth control pill because of the side effects.
- Find it hard to remember to take the pill or use the patch.
- Are 35 or older and smoke (you can't smoke when taking the pill).
- Want a birth control method that is private and effective.
Who should not use it?
A woman should not take Depo if she:
- Is pregnant.
- Wants to get pregnant within 1-2 years after they stop taking Depo.
- Has a family history of breast cancer, stroke, blood clots, liver disease or depression.
- Won't be able to return for an injection every 12 weeks.
- Hasn't got her period yet.
7. Advantages and disadvantages of Depo
Advantages
- The chances of getting pregnant are very low.
- You only have to get an injection once every 12 weeks.
Disadvantages
- It does not protect you or your partner against STIs or HIV/AIDS.
- It may affect the calcium in your bones.
- It can lower your sex drive.
- It may take you 1-2 years to get pregnant once you stop taking it.
- You might have a weight gain of 5-8 pounds over 2 years.
- Should not be used for more than 2 years.
8. Where can I get it?
Depo-Provera is an injection given by a doctor or nurse. You can get the injections at a Peel Public Health, Healthy Sexuality Clinic.
If you want to learn more, download the factsheet on the Depo-Provera (46KB, 1 page).
Diaphragm
- What is it and how does it work?
- How effective is it?
- Does it protect you against STIs or HIV/AIDS?
- What are the side effects?
- How do you use it?
- Advantages and disadvantages of a Diaphragm
- Where can I get it?
1. What is it and how does it work?
This is a form of birth control used by women. It's a soft, thin, domed-shaped rubber (latex) cup with a flexible rim that is inserted into the vagina to cover the cervix. It comes in different sizes.
You need to see a doctor to get measured for one and then he or she will give you a prescription to buy it.
The diaphragm must be used with contraceptive jelly or foam as it doesn't completely stop sperm from entering the cervix. The jelly or foam kills the sperm in the vagina.
2. How effective is it?
If used correctly and with spermicides, it's 84 to 94% effective in preventing pregnancy.
3. Does it protect you against STIs or HIV/AIDS?
Diaphragms alone do not protect you or your partner against STIs or HIV/AIDS. Using the diaphragm and a condom at the same time can reduce your chances of getting an infection.
4. What are the side effects?
- It's possible to have an allergy to rubber or spermicide.
- Some women who use it get more bladder infections or yeast infections.
- Certain positions during sex can cause it to move out of place.
- There's a risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome(TSS) if you leave the diaphragm in for more than 24 hours.
5. How do you use it?
- First wash your hands.
- Put about one tablespoon of contraceptive gel in the diaphragm and around the rim.
- Squeeze the sides of the rim together with the dome side down.
- With one leg on a stool or toilet seat, hold the lips of the vagina open and insert it as far back as it will go, as you would a tampon (a plastic inserter can be used to help you put it in place.)
- When it's in the right place, you should be able to feel the cervix through the diaphragm.
- You can insert it up to six hours before sex, but if it's been there for more than two hours, you'll have to use more contraceptive jelly or foam.
- If you have sex more than once, extra contraceptive jelly or foam must be used.
- The diaphragm must stay in your vagina for six to eight hours after you've finished having sex.
To remove it
- Hook a finger or the plastic inserter under the rim and pull it out.
- Wash it with mild soap and water.
- Check it for any breaks or tears.
- Store it in a cool, dry place.
6. Advantages and Disadvantages of a Diaphragm
Advantages
- You don't have to stop to put it on during sex - it can be inserted up to 6 hours before.
- It can be used more than once and will last up to 2 years.
Disadvantages
- It does not protect you or your partner against STIs or HIV/AIDS.
- You have to get measured for one and get a prescription to buy it.
- You'll need to get fitted for a new one if you've had a baby, an abortion, lower pelvic surgery, or have lost or gained ten or more pounds since you used it.
- There is a chance of an allergy to latex or spermicide.
- You may get more bladder infections or yeast infections.
- Certain positions during sex may cause it to move out of place.
- There's a risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) if you leave it in for more than 24 hours.
7. Where can I get it?
The diaphragm is available by prescription from your doctor or local walk in clinic.
If you want to learn more, download the factsheet on the Diaphragm (45KB, 1 page).
Emergency contraceptive pill/morning after pill (ECP)
- What is it and how does it work?
- How effective is it?
- Does it protect you against STIs and HIV/AIDS?
- What are the side effects?
- How do you use it?
- Who should use it?
- Advantages and disadvantages of ECP
- Where can I get the ECP?
1. What is it and how does it work?
The Emergency Contraceptive Pill (ECP) are prescription hormone pills for women that prevent pregnancy if it's taken within 72 hours after having unprotected sexual intercourse.
ECP contains a hormone called progestin and works by:
- Preventing the release of an egg from the ovary.
- Preventing sperm from meeting up with an egg.
- Preventing a fertilized egg from attaching to the wall of the uterus.
If you're already pregnant, taking ECP does not cause an abortion and is not known to harm the fetus
2. How effective is ECP?
If ECP is taken within the first 24 hours of unprotected sex, it is 95% effective in preventing pregnancy. If you take it within 25-48 hours, it's 85% effective. And if ECP is taken within 49-72 hours, it's 58% effective in preventing a pregnancy.
3. Does it protect you against STIs or HIV/AIDS?
ECP does not protect you or your partner from getting STIs or HIV/AIDS.
4. What are the side effects?
The most common are:
- Nausea - taking it with food helps
- Pains in your abdominal area
- Headache
- Spotting or bleeding from the vagina
The side effects from ECP only last a few days. See your doctor right away if you experience itching all over your body or cramping and severe stomach pain before your next period.
ECP will not affect your chances of getting pregnant in the future.
5. How do you use it?
You'll get 2 pills in a package.
- Eat something and take the first pill as soon as possible.
- 12 hours later, eat again and take the second pill - try timing it so that you don't have wake up in the middle of the night.
- If you felt sick after taking the first pill, you can take an anti-nausea pill before taking the second pill.
- After taking ECP, you should get your next period on time. If it's more than one week late, or it's not a normal period, see your doctor or go to a Healthy Sexuality Clinic for a pregnancy test.
6. Who should use it?
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist to see if ECP is right for you. ECP can be used if:
- A condom broke or slipped off
- You had forced or unplanned sex
- You forgot to take some birth control pills
- You were late getting your Depo-Provera injection
- You did not use condoms during sexual intercourse
While ECP is a method of emergency birth control, it's not meant to be and should not be your regular method.
7. Advantages and disadvantages ECP
Advantages
- It can be used in an emergency situation.
- Depending on how soon you take it, your chances of getting are pregnant are low.
- Most women can take ECP without any problems.
- ECP will not affect your chances of getting pregnant in the future.
Disadvantages
- You might get nauseous or feel sick.
- You might have mild stomach pains.
- You might have spotting or bleeding between periods.
- You should not use the ECP as a regular method of birth control.
8. Where can I get it?
ECP is available by prescription at a Peel Public Health Healthy Sexuality Clinic or pharmacies. Some family doctors and walk in clinics also provide the ECP. Recently, ECP has become available at some pharmacies without a doctor's prescription. You'll have to see the pharmacist who'll ask you questions to determine if you should take the ECP.
If you want to learn more, download the factsheet on the ECP (43KB, 1 page).
Transdermal - Contraceptive Patch (the Patch)
- What is it and how does it work?
- How effective is it?
- Does it protect you against getting STIs or HIV/AIDS?
- What are the side effects?
- How do you use it?
- Advantages and disadvantages of the Patch
- Where can I get it?
1. What is it and how does it work?
The Transdermal Contraceptive Patch, often called the Patch, is a form of birth control that is used by women. You can only get it with a prescription.
The Patch is a 4cm square patch that women wear on their body for a week at a time for 3 consecutive weeks each month. Then the woman goes "patch-free" for the fourth week when she gets her period.
The Patch contains hormones that are released into the body each week, preventing pregnancy by:
- Stopping ovulation.
- Making the mucus in the cervix thicker so that it's harder for sperm to travel into the cervix.
- Making the lining of the uterus thinner so that it's harder for a fertilized egg to attach to the uterus.
2. How effective is it?
When used the right way, it is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.
For women who weigh more than 198 pounds, the patch is not as effective in preventing pregnancy.
3. Does it protect you against getting STIs or HIV/AIDS?
The Patch does not protect you or your partner against STIs or HIV/AIDS. Using the Patch and condoms at the same time can reduce your chances of getting an STI or HIV/AIDS.
4. What are the side effects?
The side effects are different for each person. Some women may experience:
- Nausea
- Headache
- Sore breasts
- Break-through bleeding
- Skin irritation
If you're on the Patch, you should not smoke. Though rare, women who use the Patch and smoke have a higher chance of developing a blood clot. There are signs that might indicate a blood clot, so get to know them:
- Severe leg pain in the calf or thigh.
- Severe chest pain, cough, shortness of breath.
- Severe headache, dizziness, weakness and numbness.
- Loss of vision or blurring.
- Slurring of speech.
- Severe abdominal pain.
If you have any of these signs, go to a hospital right away.
5. How do you use it?
Start the Patch on the first day of your period. Replace the Patch with a new one on the same day of the week, on the second + third week after that. Try not to use the same part of your body. You can place the Patch on your bum, abdomen or upper arm. You can wear it on the same general area, but not on the same exact spot. On week 4, you don't wear a patch and you should get your period.
As a caution, you should use a backup method of birth like a condom for the first 7 days of this cycle.
Do not put the Patch on:
- A cut, red or irritated skin.
- Areas of the skin where you usually put oils, creams, lotions, or powders.
If you make any mistakes using the Patch, you may be able to take the Emergency Contraceptive Pill (ECP) to help prevent pregnancy.
6. Advantages and disadvantages of the Patch
Advantages
- Your chances of getting pregnant are low.
- You don't have to interrupt sex to use it.
- You can wear the patch while exercising, swimming or in the shower.
Disadvantages
- It does not protect you or your partner against STIs or HIV/AIDS.
- You need a prescription to get it.
- If it falls off or comes loose, it won't be as effective.
- It can be more expensive than other birth control methods.
- For women who weigh more than 198 pounds, it's sometimes less effective in preventing pregnancy.
7. Where can I get it?
The patch is available by prescription at a Peel Public Health Healthy Sexuality Clinic, your doctor or local walk in clinic.
If you want to learn more, download the factsheet on the Patch (48KB, 2 pages).
Female Condoms
- What is it?
- How effective is it?
- Does it protect you against STIs and HIV/AIDS?
- Advantages and disadvantages of female condoms
- Where can I get it?
1. What is it?
It's a thin, soft plastic condom that goes inside in the vagina.
2. How effective is it?
When used correctly, it's about 80% - 95% effective at preventing pregnancy.
3. Does it protect you against STIs and HIV/AIDS?
The female condom is the only female-controlled birth control method that also protects against STIs and HIV/AIDS.
4. Advantages and disadvantages of female condoms
Advantages
- It's latex free so there's less chance of an allergic reaction.
- When used correctly, it helps protect against pregnancy and STIs -- including HIV/AIDS.
- It's 40% stronger than latex.
- Unlike male condoms, you can use any lubricant (water or oil-based).
- You don't need a prescription to get it.
- Some women find that the outer ring stimulates the clitoris and increases pleasure.
- Some men say it increases their pleasure and sensitivity.
Disadvantages
- The outer ring hangs out about 2.5cm outside the vagina.
- Friction can cause noises during sex - extra lubricant will help.
- It's rare yet possible for the penis to enter the vagina beside the condom.
- The price: they can cost about $3.50 to $5.00 each.
5. Where can I get it?
You can get female condoms at a Peel Public Health Healthy Sexuality Clinic.
Pharmacies also sell female condoms.
If you want to learn more, download the factsheet on the Female Condoms (37KB, 1 page).
Fertility Awareness - Knowing when you can get pregnant
1. What is it and how does it work?
A woman's body gives out signs that tell her when she's at her most fertile and more likely to get pregnant.
So if you read the signs in your body, like when you're ovulating, you can help make birth control methods work better and reduce your chances of getting pregnant. It will also help you if you and your partner are trying to get pregnant.
It may take 3-4 months for you to get to know your body and recognize your own signs of ovulation, so as a back up, use condoms or other birth control methods.
2. What are the signs?
Calendar method
Did you know that you can only get pregnant on certain days of your menstrual cycle? That's right, only during ovulation are you ready to conceive.
Usually, women ovulate 12-16 days before their NEXT period - this is when you can get pregnant!
If you have irregular periods and counting the days isn't always reliable, there are other signs and body changes to look for that'll help you recognize when you are ovulating.
Watch for cervical mucous
- This mucous is made by the cervix (opening of the uterus) and comes out of your vagina. After the first few days of your period there is no mucous, but soon afterwards you'll experience it - it has a sticky, creamy feel.
- Closer to ovulation, your cervix opens up and more mucous comes out. It will be thinner and clearer than before, almost like a raw egg white - you can stretch it between two fingers. You can get pregnant at this point because your cervix is open and the thinner mucous helps move the sperm into the uterus.
- If you insert your fingers way up into your vagina, you'll be able to feel the cervix; it will be raised, open and moist and is soft like your lips.
- After you have ovulated and for about the two weeks before your next period, the mucous will dry up and there is less discharge. Your cervix also closes up and blocks the sperm from getting into your uterus - this reduces the chances of getting pregnant.
- You might have some vaginal spotting when the egg is released.
- You could experience a mild ache or pain over the ovary that released the egg.
- Your breasts will get bigger or ache from ovulation until your period starts.
Tuning into your body's signs and changes over 3-4 months will give you an idea of when you are most fertile and therefore more likely to get pregnant.
REMEMBER: Choosing to use condoms every time you have sex can prevent pregnancy and lower your chances of getting an STI and HIV/AIDS.
If you want to learn more, download the factsheet on the Fertility Awareness (42KB, 1 page).
Intrauterine Device (IUD)
- What is it and how does it work?
- How effective is it?
- Does it protect you against STIs or HIV/AIDS?
- What are the side effects?
- Things to remember and look for once an IUD is put in
- Advantages and disadvantages of an IUD
- Where can I get it?
1. What is it and how does it work?
An Intrauterine Device (IUD) is a form of birth control used by women. The most common IUD is T-shaped with thin, plastic strings attached to it. These 'strings' hang through the cervix into the vagina. It has to be inserted and removed by a doctor. It can stay in the uterus from 1 to 5 years.
The IUD slows down the sperm to prevent fertilization of the egg. It also changes the lining of the uterus so that the egg can't attach to the uterine wall.
2. How effective is it?
It's 99.2 to 99.97% effective in preventing pregnancy. However, 2 to 10% of IUD users found that it had slipped out of their uterus within the first year of use.
3. Does it protect you against STIs or HIV/AIDS?
IUD does not protect you or your partner against STIs or HIV/AIDS. Using the IUD and condoms at the same time can reduce your chances of getting an STI or HIV/AIDS.
4. What are the side effects?
- You could experience longer and heavier periods with more cramps that may or may not decrease with time.
- IUDs sometimes come loose.
- There's an increased risk of infection, Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) and possible transmission of HIV (more possible if you have multiple partners).
- Spotting or bleeding between periods.
Before having an IUD inserted, get tested for STIs.
5. Things to remember and look for once an IUD is put in
Once an IUD is put in:
- You should not have sex or use tampons for three days.
- Be aware of missed periods or heavier bleeding with periods.
- Eat iron rich food.
- Check that the strings are still in place once a week for the first month after insertion, and then after each period.
- Be aware of signs of an infection or if the IUD has fallen out.
Remember: only a doctor can remove an IUD so don't try to do it on your own!
If the IUD has moved out you might notice:
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Cramping or pain
- Spotting between periods or after sex
- Pain during sex for you and your partner
- Strings are either missing, shorter or longer
- You missed a period
You could have an infection if you have:
- Abnormal spotting or bleeding
- Pain during sex
- Unusual discharge or odour
- Fever, dizziness, and chills
If you experience any of these signs, see your doctor right away.
6. Advantages and disadvantages of an IUD
Advantages
- IUDs can stay in the uterus for 1 - 5 years.
- If inserted correctly and in place, it's 99.2 to 99.97% effective at preventing pregnancy.
Disadvantages
- It does not protect you or your partner against STIs or HIV/AIDS.
- A doctor has to put it in and remove it.
- There is a chance it can fall out.
- Longer and heavier periods with more cramps.
- Increased risk of infections such as Pelvic Inflammatory Disease.
7. Where can I get it?
You can get an IUD at a Peel Public Health Healthy Sexuality Clinic and at some doctors' offices and walk-in clinics.
If you want to learn more, download the factsheet on the IUD (39KB, 1 page).
Sponge
- What is it and how does it work?
- How effective is it?
- Does it protect you against STIs or HIV/AIDS?
- What are the side effects?
- How do you use it?
- Advantages and disadvantages of the sponge
- Where can I get it?
1. What is it and how does it work?
This is a form of birth control used by women. It's a small, round sponge made of foam. The sponge is latex and hormone-free.
You insert the sponge into the vagina before sex and the spermicides in the device kill the sperm.
2. How effective is it?
If used correctly, the sponge is about 68 to 91% effective in preventing pregnancy. Using a condom adds more protection against pregnancy and STIs.
3. Does it protect you against STIs and HIV/AIDS?
The sponge does not protect you or your partner against STIs or HIV/AIDS. Using the sponge and condoms at the same time can reduce your chances of getting an STI or HIV/AIDS.
4. What are the side effects?
Some spermicides can cause irritation of the penis and vagina.
5. How do you use it?
- Read and follow the instructions on the package.
- Put the sponge into the vagina before sex - it can be put in the vagina up to 6 hours before having sex.
- You can have sex as many times as you like within 12 hours without changing the sponge.
- Leave it in the vagina for six to eight hours after sex to ensure all the sperm are dead.
- Once you're done with the sponge, it can't be used again and needs to be thrown away.
6. Advantages and disadvantages of the sponge
Advantages
- You don't need a prescription to get the sponge.
- It's available at most pharmacies and at the Healthy Sexuality Clinic.
- You and your partner won't feel it while having sex.
- You don't have to stop in the middle of foreplay to put it in - it can be inserted into the vagina 6 to 8 hours before sex.
- The sponge is latex and hormone-free.
Disadvantages
- It does not protect you or your partner against STIs or HIV/AIDS.
- You can't use it if you have a history of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).
- Some people are allergic to spermicides.
7. Where can I get it?
The Sponge is available at a Peel Public Health Healthy Sexuality Clinic, your doctor or local walk-in clinic.
If you want to learn more, download the factsheet on the Sponge (38KB, 1 page).
Vaginal Contraceptive Film (VCF)
- What is it and how does it work?
- How effective is it?
- Does it protect you against STIs or HIV/AIDS?
- What are the side effects?
- How do you use it?
- Advantages and disadvantages of VCF
- Where can I get it?
1. What is it and how does it work?
Vaginal Contraceptive Film (VCF) is a form of birth control used by women.
VCF is a very thin square that dissolves quickly in the vagina and releases a spermicide that kills sperm.
2. How effective is it?
It's about 70% to 80% effective in preventing pregnancy.
3. Does it protect you against STIs or HIV/AIDS?
VCF does not protect you or your partner against STIs or HIV/AIDS. Using VCF and condoms at the same time can reduce your chances of getting an STI or HIV/AIDS.
4. What are the side effects?
- There can be irritation of the penis or vagina.
- Some experience itching or burning when peeing.
- Your vagina might become swollen.
- You could experience a white, vaginal discharge.
If you have any of these signs, stop using VCF.
5. How do you use it?
- Make sure your fingers are dry, then remove one film from the package, fold it in half and place over fingertip.
- Slide your finger with the VCF film into the vagina as far as you can go so the film rests on or near the cervix (at the top end of your vagina).
- Do not place the film on the tip of the penis because it won't have enough time to dissolve. Furthermore, the film might not end up in the right place and the cervical opening may not be covered.
- Insert VCF between 15 minutes and one hour before sex.
- If more than one hour passes since the VCF was inserted, insert another film.
- Use one VCF film each time you have sex.
A woman or her partner can insert the VCF. It's washed away with the natural vaginal fluids.
6. Advantages and disadvantages of VCF
Advantages
- You don't need a prescription to get VCF.
- You don't have to stop in the middle of foreplay to put it in - it can be inserted into the vagina between 15 minutes and one hour before sex.
- You or your partner can put it in.
- It is 80% effective in preventing pregnancy.
Disadvantages
- It does not protect you or your partner against STIs or HIV/AIDS.
- It can irritate the penis and vagina.
- You have to put a new one in each time you have sex.
7. Where can I get it?
VCF is available at a Peel Public Health Healthy Sexuality Clinic, your doctor or local walk in clinic.
If you want to learn more, download the factsheet on VCF (31KB, 1 page).
Withdrawal
1. What is it?
Just like it sounds: it's removing the penis from the vagina during sex just before ejaculation (cumming). It's also known as 'pulling out.'
2. How effective is it?
The effectiveness of this act in preventing pregnancy depends on a few IFs, ANDs and BUTs...
IF:
- Your partner recently ejaculated (cum) and urinates to get rid of any left over sperm.
- The tip of the penis is wiped dry of lubricating fluid before penetration.
- The penis IS withdrawn BEFORE ejaculation.
- Ejaculation (cum) occurs outside the vagina and well away from the vaginal opening.
THEN:
Withdrawal has about a 73 to 96% effectiveness rate in preventing pregnancy.
BUT remember:
- It does not protect you or your partner against STIs or HIV/AIDS.
- Controlling the withdrawal can be tricky and therefore, risky.
- Even if you don't ejaculate (cum) in the vagina, pre-ejaculate fluid does contain sperm and could cause pregnancy.
REMEMBER: Using condoms every time you have sex can prevent pregnancy and lower your chances of getting an STI and HIV/AIDS.
If you want to learn more, download the factsheet on Withdrawal (37KB, 1 page).
