What is Birth Control?
Birth control is any method or device that prevents or lessens the chance of pregnancy.
Other than abstinence, there is no method of birth control that is 100% effective. Birth control
methods include:
- Male or female condom
- Diaphragm
- Cervical cap
- Contraceptive foam (Not usually recommended for use by teens because of
ingredient nonoxynol-9 - see page on STDs)
- Vaginal contraceptive film (Not usually recommended as above)
- Sponge (Not usually recommended as above)
- Birth control pill
- Depo-provera
- Norplant(Norplant is no longer available in North America)
- IUD (Not usually recommended for teens because of risk of developing a serious pelvic infection if an STD occurs)
- Abstinence
Who Needs Birth Control?
Anyone who is having sex needs birth control. Birth control is the responsibility
of BOTH partners.
Staying Safe
Talk to a doctor about the best method of birth control for you. Each carries
different risks and benefits, and your doctor will help you decide which is
right for you. Remember that most birth control methods do not protect you from STDs.
Always use a condom with any method of birth control you choose.
Getting Information
Family
Planning Clinics
Offer drop-in service, birth control supplies at affordable rates, free and confidential
medical exams and information on sexuality, birth control, pregnancy, and STD's.
Calgary Birth Control Association
Offers counseling and education services to help people consider their sexual
and reproductive choices. Contact them at (403) 283-5580.
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