Ever wondered about all of the different types of birth control and ways to have safe sex? Here is a rundown of the timeline on which you should be using them and some of the many options:
Preventative:
NuvaRing: What’s better than an engagement ring? One that prevents pregnancy.
This is a plastic ring that you insert into your vagina once a month for three weeks (when you’re not on your period). It releases the same hormones as birth control constantly to prevent pregnancy and is easy to get with a prescription from your doctor. If it comes out (like during sex), as long as you clean it and slide it back in within 48 hours, you are good to go.
Birth Control Pills:
Birth control pills are a very common way to prevent pregnancy. You take a pill each day by mouth at the same time. You can even take it in Ibiza to show Avicii that you’re cool. The pill is safe, effective, and free with many healthcare plans. It also can help prevent ovarian cysts, treat acne, aid in period regulation, and lessen the pain of cramps.
IUD:
An IUD is a T-shaped object that is inserted into the top of the uterus. Unlike the pill or the ring, it has to be put in by a doctor or nurse. You can opt for a hormonal IUD, or a copper one. You also automatically become #metal AF (just kidding). Both types prevent pregnancy. They can last up to 12 years and have to be removed by a doctor.
Shot:
The birth control shot is a three-month shot that prevents pregnancy. It releases hormones into the body that prevent eggs from leaving the ovaries. This requires you to go to the doctor every 12 weeks for a new shot. If you have a fear of needles, this is definitely not for you. Or it is if you want to face your fear. #ovaryup
Patch:
The patch is a sticky patch that you place on your skin once a week, three times a month, followed by a patch-free period week. It releases hormones into the body and works similarly to the pill. It’s basically a magical Band-Aid.
Hours ahead of time: for when you just know it’s gonna happen.
Diaphragm:
This is something your mom probably mentioned once and you nearly threw up on the kitchen floor. The diaphragm is a mini silicone cup that you insert into the vagina after applying spermicide to it. It blocks the opening to the uterus and can be inserted hours ahead of time. The only downside is that it has to stay in place for six hours after intercourse. It does not prevent against STIs.
Sponge:
No, this doesn’t mean quote Spongebob nonstop, although that would probably prevent pregnancy too. This is a miniature sponge that you insert into your vagina up to 24 hours before sex, and leave in for 6 hours after sex. It’s similar to the diaphragm except that you wet it beforehand, and it releases its own spermicide. While currently uncommon in the US, you can find sponges sold here, and a package of three is less than 15 dollars.
During Sex:
Dental Dam:
Safe sex is important for people of all gender identities and sexualities. If and when you engage in oral sex, a dental dam is recommended to reduce the risk of STIs. They make flavored ones, calm down. It’s essentially a fruit roll-up that prevents disease.
Condom (both latex and lambskin, both female and male):
The most popular and common of birth control methods is the condom. This is the thing you had to roll down a banana in eighth grade health class (or got friendly with last week after the pub). Condoms protect against STIs and pregnancy. People with latex allergies can use lambskin condoms or vegan alternatives.
Pull-out method:
While not recommended or extremely effective, it is better than not pulling out. It reduces the risk of pregnancy, but doesn’t fully protect against it as it is not foolproof and pre-cum can still get you pregnant. TBH probably try to avoid this one.
After:
Morning after pill:
When all of your Plan As fall through, or you made a split-second poor decision, there is always Plan B. The morning-after pill is available at most pharmacies and at Health Services for a reduced fee.
If none of these options seem right for you, talk to your doctor about other steps you can take.
Photo sources: fpaneo.org, myobclinic.com, snorgtees.com, blogher.com, bostonmagazine.com, sites.path.org, womenshealthmag.org, kidshealth.org, livescience.com, plannedparenthood.org, health.com