Types of Birth Control

• Contraceptive Sponge
• Diaphragm, Cervical Cap, and Cervical Shield
• Female Condom
• Male Condom
• Oral Contraceptives — Combined pill (“The pill”)
• Oral Contraceptives — Progestin-only pill (“Mini-pill”)
• The Patch
• Shot/Injection
• Vaginal Ring
• Intrauterine Devices
• Implantable Rods
• Surgical Sterilization (Permanent)
• Sterilization Implant (Permanent)
  
  
  
  

Pro's vs. Con's

The controversy of whether or not birth control is necessary has been a notorious dispute since the start of the women's choice movement. Although there are many views and reasons for women taking birth control, some people still don't believe that the reasons are sufficient enough to allow women the access to birth control. While others are 100 percent pro- birthcontrol. I suppose the choice is yours...

Pro's: Very effective against pregnancy if used correctl. Makes menstrual periods more regular and lighter. Decreases menstrual cramps and acne. Makes you less likely to get ovarian and uterine cancer, pelvic inflammatory disease, ovarian cysts, and anemia.

Con's: Doesn't protect against STDs. Cost or co-pays between $15-$50 per month. Need to remember to take every day at the same time. Can't be used by women with certain medical problems or by women taking certain medications. Can occasionally cause side effects such as nausea, increased appetite, headaches, and, very rarely, blood clots. Need a prescription.