Birth control and family planning

Contraception; Family planning and contraception; Coitus interruptus

Your choice of a birth control method depends on a number of factors, including your health, how often you have sex, and whether or not you want children.

Test Your Knowledge About Birth Control

Which of the following are birth control options for women?

	A. Hormonal methods
	B. IUDs
	C. Condoms and diaphragms
	D. Natural family planning
	E. Sterilization
	F. All of the above

Correct Answer

The correct answer is all of the above. Your choice of birth control should depend on several factors, including your health, number of sexual partners, and desire to have children. Talk to your health care provider to select the best form of birth control for you.

How does birth control prevent pregnancy?

	A. Prevents sperm from getting to an egg
	B. Prevents the woman’s ovaries from releasing eggs
	C. Kills sperm
	D. Changes the lining of the uterus so the egg can’t attach
	E. All of the above

Correct Answer

The correct answer is all of the above. The goal of all types of birth control is to prevent a fertilized egg from attaching in the uterus. Talk to your doctor and your partner about which type of birth control is best for you.

Which form of birth control offers the most protection against pregnancy?

	A. Birth control pills
	B. The patch
	C. IUDs
	D. Vaginal ring
	E. Condoms

Correct Answer

The correct answer is IUDs. IUDs are 20 times more effective at preventing pregnancy than birth control pills, patches, or rings. Talk to your doctor to find out if this form of contraception is right for you.

Who should NOT use birth control pills?

	A. Women who are over age 35 and smoke
	B. Women who have heavy periods or endometriosis
	C. Women who have PMS
	D. Women who have acne

Correct Answer

The correct answer is women who are over age 35 and smoke. Smoking greatly increases your risk of heart disease. Birth control pills can increase this risk even more. If you have endometriosis, PMS, or acne, you may notice fewer symptoms while you’re taking birth control pills. Ask your doctor which pill is right for you.

Certain types of birth control pills can get rid of your period almost entirely.

A. True

B. False
Correct Answer
The correct answer is true. Extended cycle (or continuous use) medicines reduce, or even eliminate, monthly periods. Talk to your doctor about whether this option is right for you.

Which of the following is true about injected contraceptives (Depo-Provera).

	A. You get a shot every 3 months.
	B. You should not use it for longer than 2 years in a row.
	C. You may gain 5 to 8 pounds.
	D. You should not use it if you want to become pregnant within 2 years.
	E. You may stop menstruating altogether after a year.
	F. All of the above.

Correct Answer

The correct answer is all of the above. Depo-Provera does a good job of preventing pregnancy. It also has side effects, including weight gain, menstrual cycle changes, headaches, and bone loss. It could cause infertility for up to 2 years after the last injection. Talk to your doctor about whether Depo-Provera is right for you.

Copper-releasing IUDs can stay in the uterus for up to 10 years.

A. True

B. False
Correct Answer
The correct answer is true. Both copper-releasing (ParaGard) and progestin-releasing (Mirena) IUDs do a good job of preventing pregnancy. ParaGard can remain in the uterus for up to 10 years compared to 5 years for Mirena. Talk to your doctor about whether using an IUD is right for you.

Which natural family planning method works best?

	A. Calendar (or rhythm)
	B. Cervical mucus
	C. Temperature
	D. Symptothermal Method
	E. Withdrawal (the man removes his penis from the vagina before ejaculation)

Correct Answer

The correct answer is Symptothermal Method. This method combines the calendar, cervical mucus, and temperature methods. Because of the high risk of pregnancy, only couples who can't use or choose not to use other types of birth control should use this method. Talk with your doctor before using this approach to birth control.

You can use a diaphragm safely for 5 years.

A. True

B. False
Correct Answer
<P>The correct answer is false. Some women need to get a different-sized diaphragm after pregnancy, abdominal or pelvic surgery, or weight loss or gain of 10 pounds or more. You should replace your diaphragm every 1 - 2 years.</P><P>Actually you may be able to use a diaphragm safely for five years, assuming no change in vaginal size. The question should be made more specific if you wish to use it.</P>
It's best to use emergency contraception within__ day(s) after having unprotected sex:

A. 1

B. 3

C. 5

D. None of the above
Correct Answer
The correct answer is 1 day. Emergency contraception works best when you use it within 24 hours of having sex. However, it can prevent pregnancy for up to 3 days after you first had sex. One type may work up to 5 days later, but it's best to take it sooner. Emergency contraception should not be used as a routine form of birth control.
Which sterilization method works the best?

A. Male (vasectomy)

B. Female

C. They both work equally well
Correct Answer
The correct answer is both work equally well. However, vasectomy carries fewer risks and is less expensive than female sterilization. Only you and your partner can decide which method is right for you. Consider your options carefully since it can be difficult to reverse sterilization.

Information

Here are some questions to consider when selecting a birth control method:

How well does the method prevent pregnancy? To tell how well a method works, look at the number of pregnancies in 100 women using that method over a period of 1 year.
What are your feelings about getting pregnant? Would an unplanned pregnancy create hardship or distress to a woman or her partner? Or would a pregnancy be welcomed if it occurred earlier than planned?
How much does a method of birth control cost? Does your insurance plan pay for it?
What are the health risks? Talk about these risks with your health care provider before believing what you hear from others.
Is your partner willing to accept and use a given method of birth control?
Do you want a method that you only need to use when you have sex? Or do you want something that is in place and always working?
Is preventing infections spread by sexual contact important? Many methods do not protect you from sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Condoms are the best choice for preventing STIs. They work best when combined with spermicides.
Availability: Can the method be used without a prescription, a provider visit, or, in the case of minors, parental consent?

BARRIER METHODS OF BIRTH CONTROL

CONDOMS:

Previous image Play Slideshow Stop Slideshow Next image

A condom is a thin latex or polyurethane sheath. The male condom is placed around the erect penis. The female condom is placed inside the vagina before intercourse.
Male condom
A condom is a thin cover worn on the penis during intercourse. Using a condom will help prevent:Female partners from becoming pregnantGetting an inf...
Image

Read Article Now Book Mark Article
Female condom
The female condom is a device used for birth control. Like a male condom, it creates a barrier to prevent the sperm from getting to the egg....
Image

Read Article Now Book Mark Article
A condom must be worn at all times during intercourse to prevent pregnancy.
Condoms can be bought in most drug and grocery stores. Some family planning clinics offer free condoms. You do not need a prescription to get condoms.

DIAPHRAGM AND CERVICAL CAP:

Previous image Play Slideshow Stop Slideshow Next image

A diaphragm is a flexible rubber cup that is filled with spermicidal cream or jelly.
It is placed into the vagina over the cervix before intercourse, to prevent sperm from reaching the uterus.
It should be left in place for 6 to 8 hours after intercourse.
Diaphragms must be prescribed by a woman's provider. The provider will determine the correct type and size of diaphragm for the woman.
About 5 to 20 pregnancies occur over 1 year in 100 women using this method, depending on proper use.
A similar, smaller device is called a cervical cap.
Risks include irritation and allergic reactions to the diaphragm or spermicide, and increased frequency of urinary tract infection and vaginal yeast infection. In rare cases, toxic shock syndrome may develop in women who leave the diaphragm in too long. A cervical cap may cause an abnormal Pap test.

VAGINAL SPONGE:

Vaginal contraceptive sponges are soft, and contain a chemical that kills or "disables" sperm.
The sponge is moistened and inserted into the vagina, to cover over the cervix before intercourse.
Cervix
The cervix is the lower end of the womb (uterus). It is at the top of the vagina. It is about 2. 5 to 3. 5 centimeters (1 to 1. 3 inches) long. Th...
Image

Read Article Now Book Mark Article
The vaginal sponge can be bought at your pharmacy without a prescription.
Vaginal sponge can be bought at your ph...
Spermicides and vaginal sponges are two over-the-counter birth control methods used during sex to prevent pregnancy. Over-the-counter means that the...

Read Article Now Book Mark Article

HORMONAL METHODS OF BIRTH CONTROL

Some birth control methods use hormones. They will have either both an estrogen and a progestin, or a progestin alone. You need a prescription for most hormonal birth control methods.

Both hormones prevent a woman's ovary from releasing an egg during her cycle. They do this by affecting the levels of other hormones the body makes.
Progestins help prevent sperm from making their way to the egg by making mucus around a woman's cervix thick and sticky.

Previous image Play Slideshow Stop Slideshow Next image

Types of hormonal birth control methods include:

Birth control pills: These may contain both estrogen and progestin, or only progestin.
Birth control pills
Birth control pills (BCPs) contain man-made forms of 2 hormones called estrogen and progestin. These hormones are made naturally in a woman's ovarie...
Image

Read Article Now Book Mark Article
Implants: These are small rods implanted beneath the skin. They release a continuous dose of hormone to prevent ovulation.
Implants
Certain birth control methods contain man-made forms of hormones. These hormones are normally made in a woman's ovaries. These hormones are called ...
Image

Read Article Now Book Mark Article
Progestin injections, such as Depo-Provera, that are given into the muscles of the upper arm or buttocks once every 3 months.
Progestin injections
Certain birth control methods contain man-made forms of hormones. These hormones are normally made in a woman's ovaries. These hormones are called ...
Image

Read Article Now Book Mark Article
The skin patch, such as Ortho Evra, is placed on your shoulder, buttocks, or other place on the body. It releases a continuous dose of hormones.
Skin patch
Certain birth control methods contain man-made forms of hormones. These hormones are normally made in a woman's ovaries. These hormones are called ...
Image

Read Article Now Book Mark Article
The vaginal ring, such as NuvaRing, is a flexible ring about 2 inches (5 centimeters) wide. It is placed into the vagina. It releases the hormones progestin and estrogen.
Vaginal ring
Certain birth control methods contain man-made forms of hormones. These hormones are normally made in a woman's ovaries. These hormones are called ...
Image

Read Article Now Book Mark Article
Emergency (or "morning after") contraception: This medicine can be bought without a prescription at your drugstore.
Emergency (or "morning after") contrace...
Emergency contraception is a birth control method to prevent pregnancy in women. It can be used:After a sexual assault or rapeWhen a condom breaks o...
Image

Read Article Now Book Mark Article

IUD (INTRAUTERINE DEVICE):

Previous image Play Slideshow Stop Slideshow Next image

The IUD is a small plastic or copper device placed inside the woman's uterus by her provider. Some IUDs release small amounts of progestin. IUDs may be left in place for 3 to 10 years, depending on the device used.
IUDs can be placed at almost any time.
IUDs are safe and work well. Fewer than 1 out of 100 women per year will get pregnant using an IUD.
IUDs that release progestin may be for treating heavy menstrual bleeding and reducing cramps. They may also cause periods to stop completely.

PERMANENT METHODS OF BIRTH CONTROL

These methods are best for men, women, and couples who feel certain they do not want to have children in the future. They include vasectomy and tubal ligation. These procedures can sometimes be reversed if a pregnancy is desired at a later time. However, the success rate for reversal is not high.

Previous image Play Slideshow Stop Slideshow Next image

BIRTH CONTROL METHODS THAT DO NOT WORK VERY WELL

Withdrawal of the penis from the vagina before ejaculation can still result in pregnancy. Some semen often escapes before full withdrawal. It can be enough to cause a pregnancy.
Penis
The penis is the male organ used for urination and sexual intercourse. The penis is located above the scrotum. It is made of spongy tissue and bloo...
Image

Read Article Now Book Mark Article
Vagina
The vagina is the female body part that connects the womb (uterus) and cervix to the outside of the body.
Image

Read Article Now Book Mark Article
Douching shortly after sex is not likely to work. The sperm can make their way past the cervix within 90 seconds. Douching is never recommended because it can cause infections in the uterus and tubes.
Breastfeeding: Despite the myths, women who are breastfeeding can become pregnant.

Open References

References

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists website. ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 206: Use of hormonal contraception in women with coexisting medical conditions. Obstet Gynecol. 2019;133(6):1288. Erratum for: Obstet Gynecol. 2019;133(2):e128-e150. PMID: 31135757 pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31135757/.

Committee on Adolescent Health Care. Committee Opinion No 699: Adolescent pregnancy, contraception, and sexual activity. Obstet Gynecol. 2017;129(5):e142-e149. PMID: 28426620 pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28426620/.

Curtis KM, Jatlaoui TC, Tepper NK, et al. US selected practice recommendations for contraceptive use, 2016. MMWR Recomm Rep. 2016;65(4):1-66. PMID: 27467319 pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27467319/.

Harper DM, Wilfling LE, Blanner CF. Contraception. In: Rakel RE, Rakel DP, eds. Textbook of Family Medicine. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2016:chap 26.

Jatlaoui TC, Ermias Y, Zapata LB. Contraception. In: Kliegman RM, St. Geme JW, Blum NJ, Shah SS, Tasker RC, Wilson KM, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 21st ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 143.

Rivlin K, Davis AR. Contraception and abortion. In: Gershenson DM, Lentz GM, Valea FA, Lobo RA, eds. Comprehensive Gynecology. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 13.

All
Video
Images
Tog

The cervical cap - illustration
The cervical cap is a flexible rubber cup-like device that is filled with spermicide and self-inserted over the cervix prior to intercourse. The device is left in place several hours after intercourse. The cap is a prescribed device fitted by a health care professional and is more expensive than other barrier methods such as condoms.
The cervical cap
illustration
The diaphragm - illustration
The diaphragm is a flexible rubber cup that is filled with spermicide and self-inserted over the cervix prior to intercourse. The device is left in place several hours after intercourse. The diaphragm is a prescribed device fitted by a health care professonal and is more expensive than other barrier methods such as condoms.
The diaphragm
illustration
The female condom - illustration
The female condom, like the male condom, is a barrier contraceptive made of latex or polyurethane. The condom has a ring on each end. The ring that is placed inside the vagina fits over the cervix, while the other ring, which is open, rests outside of the vagina and covers the vulva. The female condom is sold over-the-counter.
The female condom
illustration
Intrauterine device - illustration
The intrauterine device shown uses copper as the active contraceptive, others use progesterone in a plastic device. IUDs are very effective at preventing pregnancy (less than 2% chance per year for the progesterone IUD, less than 1% chance per year for the copper IUD). IUDs come with increased risk of ectopic pregnancy and perforation of the uterus and do not protect against sexually transmitted disease. IUDs are prescribed and placed by health care providers.
Intrauterine device
illustration
Side sectional view of female reproductive system - illustration
The female reproductive system includes the vagina, cervix, and uterus shown here in cut section.
Side sectional view of female reproductive system
illustration
The male condom - illustration
The male condom is a barrier contraceptive made of latex or polyurethane. The condom must be fitted over the erect penis. The condom is sold over-the-counter and when used properly is an inexpensive, effective barrier to pregnancy and sexually-transmitted disease.
The male condom
illustration
Hormone-based contraceptives - illustration
The pill works in several ways to prevent pregnancy. The pill suppresses ovulation so that an egg is not released from the ovaries, and changes the cervical mucus, causing it to become thicker and making it more difficult for sperm to swim into the womb. The pill also does not allow the lining of the womb to develop enough to receive and nurture a fertilized egg. This method of birth control offers no protection against sexually-transmitted diseases.
Hormone-based contraceptives
illustration
Tubal ligation - illustration
Surgical sterilization which permanently prevents the transport of the egg to the uterus by means of sealing the fallopian tubes is called tubal ligation, commonly called having one's tubes tied. This operation can be performed laparoscopically or in conjunction with a Cesarean section, after the baby is delivered. Tubal ligation is considered permanent but reversals can be done in many cases.
Tubal ligation
illustration
Vaginal ring - illustration
The vaginal ring is a flexible ring about 2 inches in diameter that is inserted into the vagina. It releases progestin and estrogen into the body to avoid pregnancy. The woman inserts it herself and it stays in the vagina for 3 weeks. Then, she takes it out for one week to have her period. Like other hormone methods, a prescription from a doctor is required.
Vaginal ring
illustration
Barrier methods of birth control - Series
Presentation

<strong>Barrier methods of birth control - Series</strong><p>During a normal monthly cycle, one of a woman's ovaries will produce a mature egg that will travel through the fallopian tube into the uterus. If sperm fertilizes this egg, the egg will attach itself to the uterine wall and begin developing into a fetus.</p>

<strong>Pathway of sperm</strong><p>Barrier methods of birth control prevent pregnancy by making sure that sperm and egg do not meet.</p>

<strong>Cervical cap</strong><p>The cervical cap is made of soft rubber and is designed to fit completely over the cervix. Spermicide is placed on the outer rim of the cap and in the portion of the cap facing the vagina. The cervical cap prevents pregnancy by blocking the sperm from entering the uterus.</p>

<strong>Diaphragm</strong><p>The diaphragm is available by prescription only and must be fitted by a physician. Once the diaphragm is fitted, a woman can insert and remove it by herself. This dome-shaped rubber disk protects from pregnancy in two ways. The diaphragm blocks sperm from entering the cervix. Spermicide jelly placed inside the rubber dome before insertion will kill any sperm it comes in contact with. Once inserted, the diaphragm is effective for up to six hours.</p>

<strong>Female Condom</strong><p>The female condom is a lubricated polyurethane sheath, similar in appearance to a male condom. It is inserted into the vagina. The closed end covers the cervix. Like the male condom, it is intended for one-time use and then discarded.</p>

<strong>Sponge</strong><p>The sponge is inserted by the woman into the vagina and covers the cervix blocking sperm from entering the cervix. The sponge also contains a spermicide that kills sperm. It is available without a prescription.</p>

Before and after vasectomy - illustration
Vasectomy is a simple procedure that is very effective in preventing pregnancy. Men usually have no side effects from vasectomy, and no change in sexual performance or function. Some men will feel sore for a few days, but pain can be relieved by analgesics and an ice pack.
Before and after vasectomy
illustration
Tubal ligation - uterine anatomy
Presentation

<strong>Tubal ligation - uterine anatomy</strong><p>The ovaries are connected to the uterus by the uterine tubes (fallopian tubes). The egg travels through the tube to the uterus.</p>

<strong>Tubal ligation</strong><p>Tubal ligation is surgery to tie the tubes (fallopian tubes) of a woman which causes permanent sterility by preventing transport of the egg (ovum) to the uterus. Tubal ligation may be recommended for adult women who are certain that they wish to prevent future pregnancies (permanent sterilization). Tubal ligation is not recommended as a temporary or reversible procedure. Tubal ligation is done in the hospital while the patient is deep asleep and pain-free (using general anesthesia). A small incision is made in the abdomen and a small telescope (laparoscope) is inserted. The tubes (fallopian tubes) are tied off and cut apart. The skin incision is stitched closed. The patient is able to return home within a few hours after the procedure. Tubal ligation can be performed immediately after childbirth.</p>

<strong>Before and after tubal ligation</strong><p>Most women recover with no problems. There are no tests required to verify sterility. Most women are advised to avoid strenuous exercise for several days. Oral pain medications can usually manage the pain. Most women are able to return to work within a few days. Sexual intercourse can be resumed as soon as the patient feels ready (usually within a week). </p>

Birth control pill - series - Normal female anatomy
Presentation

<strong>Birth control pill - series - Normal female anatomy</strong><p>The internal female reproductive organs include the uterus, ovaries, cervix and vagina. These organs are necessary to produce a successful pregnancy. To prevent pregnancy, birth control pills affect how these organs normally function.</p>

<strong>FSH and LH from pituitary gland</strong><p>Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Lutenizing Hormone (LH) stimulate the ovary into producing a ripe egg ready for fertilization by sperm during a normal ovulation cycle.</p>

<strong>Release of estrogen</strong><p>During a normal menstrual cycle, hormones stimulate the ovary causing an egg to ripen. The uterine lining thickens preparing itself for implantation of a fertilized egg and the cervical mucus thins to help sperm reach the egg.</p>

<strong>Release of LH</strong><p>The estrogen in the body causes the pituitary gland to release LH stimulating the ovary to produce a ripe egg.</p>

<strong>Birth control pill</strong><p>The lower levels of estrogen in birth control pills suppress FSH and LH, fooling the pituitary gland into thinking a woman is pregnant. Ovulation will then not occur, which prevents pregnancy.</p>

<strong>Progestin in pill</strong><p>The progesterone in birth control pills creates a thick cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the uterus. It also impedes an egg from attaching itself to the uterine lining (endometrium) because of changes in the cellular structure of the lining.</p>

The cervical cap - illustration
The cervical cap is a flexible rubber cup-like device that is filled with spermicide and self-inserted over the cervix prior to intercourse. The device is left in place several hours after intercourse. The cap is a prescribed device fitted by a health care professional and is more expensive than other barrier methods such as condoms.
The cervical cap
illustration
The diaphragm - illustration
The diaphragm is a flexible rubber cup that is filled with spermicide and self-inserted over the cervix prior to intercourse. The device is left in place several hours after intercourse. The diaphragm is a prescribed device fitted by a health care professonal and is more expensive than other barrier methods such as condoms.
The diaphragm
illustration
The female condom - illustration
The female condom, like the male condom, is a barrier contraceptive made of latex or polyurethane. The condom has a ring on each end. The ring that is placed inside the vagina fits over the cervix, while the other ring, which is open, rests outside of the vagina and covers the vulva. The female condom is sold over-the-counter.
The female condom
illustration
Intrauterine device - illustration
The intrauterine device shown uses copper as the active contraceptive, others use progesterone in a plastic device. IUDs are very effective at preventing pregnancy (less than 2% chance per year for the progesterone IUD, less than 1% chance per year for the copper IUD). IUDs come with increased risk of ectopic pregnancy and perforation of the uterus and do not protect against sexually transmitted disease. IUDs are prescribed and placed by health care providers.
Intrauterine device
illustration
Side sectional view of female reproductive system - illustration
The female reproductive system includes the vagina, cervix, and uterus shown here in cut section.
Side sectional view of female reproductive system
illustration
The male condom - illustration
The male condom is a barrier contraceptive made of latex or polyurethane. The condom must be fitted over the erect penis. The condom is sold over-the-counter and when used properly is an inexpensive, effective barrier to pregnancy and sexually-transmitted disease.
The male condom
illustration
Hormone-based contraceptives - illustration
The pill works in several ways to prevent pregnancy. The pill suppresses ovulation so that an egg is not released from the ovaries, and changes the cervical mucus, causing it to become thicker and making it more difficult for sperm to swim into the womb. The pill also does not allow the lining of the womb to develop enough to receive and nurture a fertilized egg. This method of birth control offers no protection against sexually-transmitted diseases.
Hormone-based contraceptives
illustration
Tubal ligation - illustration
Surgical sterilization which permanently prevents the transport of the egg to the uterus by means of sealing the fallopian tubes is called tubal ligation, commonly called having one's tubes tied. This operation can be performed laparoscopically or in conjunction with a Cesarean section, after the baby is delivered. Tubal ligation is considered permanent but reversals can be done in many cases.
Tubal ligation
illustration
Vaginal ring - illustration
The vaginal ring is a flexible ring about 2 inches in diameter that is inserted into the vagina. It releases progestin and estrogen into the body to avoid pregnancy. The woman inserts it herself and it stays in the vagina for 3 weeks. Then, she takes it out for one week to have her period. Like other hormone methods, a prescription from a doctor is required.
Vaginal ring
illustration
Barrier methods of birth control - Series
Presentation

Before and after vasectomy - illustration
Vasectomy is a simple procedure that is very effective in preventing pregnancy. Men usually have no side effects from vasectomy, and no change in sexual performance or function. Some men will feel sore for a few days, but pain can be relieved by analgesics and an ice pack.
Before and after vasectomy
illustration
Tubal ligation - uterine anatomy
Presentation

Birth control pill - series - Normal female anatomy
Presentation

A Closer Look

Birth control options for women
Anorexia nervosa
Diabetes - type 2
Diabetes - type 1
Weight control and diet
Epilepsy
Hirsutism
Eating disorders
Acne
Infertility in women

Talking to your MD

Self Care

Tests for Birth control and family planning

Related Information

Tubal ligation
Vasectomy
Birth control options for women

Review Date: 1/10/2022

Reviewed By: John D. Jacobson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., a business unit of Ebix, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Content is best viewed in IE9 or above, Firefox and Google Chrome browser.

	A. True
	B. False

	A. True
	B. False

	A. True
	B. False

	A. Male (vasectomy)
	B. Female
	C. They both work equally well

Health Library

Birth control and family planning

Which of the following are birth control options for women?

How does birth control prevent pregnancy?

Which form of birth control offers the most protection against pregnancy?

Who should NOT use birth control pills?

Certain types of birth control pills can get rid of your period almost entirely.

Which of the following is true about injected contraceptives (Depo-Provera).

Copper-releasing IUDs can stay in the uterus for up to 10 years.

Which natural family planning method works best?

You can use a diaphragm safely for 5 years.

It's best to use emergency contraception within__ day(s) after having unprotected sex:

Which sterilization method works the best?

Information

Male condom

Female condom

Cervix

Vaginal sponge can be bought at your ph...

Birth control pills

Implants

Progestin injections

Skin patch

Vaginal ring

Emergency (or "morning after") contrace...

Penis

Vagina

References

The cervical cap - illustration

The cervical cap

The diaphragm - illustration

The diaphragm

The female condom - illustration

The female condom

Intrauterine device - illustration

Intrauterine device

Side sectional view of female reproductive system - illustration

Side sectional view of female reproductive system

The male condom - illustration

The male condom

Hormone-based contraceptives - illustration

Hormone-based contraceptives

Tubal ligation - illustration

Tubal ligation

Vaginal ring - illustration

Vaginal ring

Barrier methods of birth control - Series

Before and after vasectomy - illustration

Before and after vasectomy

Tubal ligation - uterine anatomy

Birth control pill - series - Normal female anatomy

The cervical cap - illustration

The cervical cap

The diaphragm - illustration

The diaphragm

The female condom - illustration

The female condom

Intrauterine device - illustration

Intrauterine device

Side sectional view of female reproductive system - illustration

Side sectional view of female reproductive system

The male condom - illustration

The male condom

Hormone-based contraceptives - illustration

Hormone-based contraceptives

Tubal ligation - illustration

Tubal ligation

Vaginal ring - illustration

Vaginal ring

Barrier methods of birth control - Series

Before and after vasectomy - illustration

Before and after vasectomy

Tubal ligation - uterine anatomy

Birth control pill - series - Normal female anatomy

A Closer Look

Talking to your MD

Self Care

Tests for Birth control and family planning

Related Information