Birth Control Health Center

Tools & Resources

Medical Reference Related to Birth Control

Birth Control and Sterilization

Learn about the role that sterilization plays in birth control.
Missing Birth Control Pills

Forget to take your birth control pills? Find out from WebMD.
Other Birth Control Options

An understanding of the various options for birth control besides the pill. These options include the NuvaRing, the sponge, the birth control patch, the IUD, diaphragm, and the cervical cap.
Cervical Cap for Birth Control - Topic Overview

The cervical cap is a barrier method of birth control. A cervical cap,which is made of rubber,fits tightly over the opening to the uterus (the cervix). It is used with a spermicide. You can insert the cap ahead of time or just before sex. To work best,the cap should be left in place for 6 hours after sex. Do not leave it in for more than 48 hours total. If you have sex more than one time ...
How Birth Control Methods Prevent Pregnancy - Topic Overview

Birth control methods Method How it prevents pregnancy Hormonal Prevents ovulation Thickens mucus at the cervix so sperm cannot pass through Changes the environment of the uterus and fallopian tubes to prevent fertilization and to prevent implantation if fertilization occurs Intrauterine device (IUD) The progestin released by the hormonal IUD prevents fertilization by making the mucus in the ...
Hormonal Birth Control: Who Can and Can't Use It - Topic Overview

The following table lists the recommendations and contraindications for hormonal methods of birth control. What to consider when using hormonal methods of birth control Consideration Combination pills,skin patch,or vaginal ring (estrogen plus progestin) Progestin-only pills,implant,or shot Recommended for women who: Are healthy Are breast-feeding (6 weeks after delivery) Smoke (if younger ...
Spermicide for Birth Control - Topic Overview

A spermicide is a substance that kills sperm. Spermicides are available as jelly,foam,cream,suppositories,and film. The active ingredient of most spermicides is a chemical called nonoxynol-9. Most spermicides come with an applicator. The applicator is filled with spermicide and inserted into the vagina right before intercourse. When using a jelly,foam,or cream,you can then have sex ...
Birth Control - Choosing a Birth Control Method

With so many methods available and so many factors to consider, choosing birth control can be difficult. You may be able to decide on a method by asking yourself the following questions. Might I want to have a biological child in the future?One of your first considerations might be to determine whether you want permanent or temporary birth control. In other words, you should consider whether you .
How to Use a Condom - Topic Overview

When to use a condomCondoms can be used with spermicide to prevent pregnancy or alone as protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Pregnancy prevention. Use a condom and spermicide to prevent pregnancy. Make sure to check the condom's expiration date, and do not use it if past that date.STD protection. To protect yourself and your partner from STD infection, use a condom during ...
Birth Control - Intrauterine Device (IUD) for Birth Control

The intrauterine device (IUD) is a long - term birth control method. Unlike IUDs that were used in the 1970s, present - day IUDs are small, safe, and highly effective.1An IUD is a small, T - shaped plastic device that is wrapped in copper or contains hormones. The IUD is inserted into your uterus by your health professional. A plastic string tied to the end of the IUD hangs down through the cervix