How to Find the Best Birth Control For You

Doctors may tell you it is the best method out there. Friends might say that it worked great for them but only you know your body, your lifestyle, and what's going on in your sex life. What works for one may not work for another. Explore your options and make an educated decision rather than a spur of the moment one. You will be glad later that you did. Read on to learn how to find the best birth control for you.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• The facts
• Access to the Internet to explore options
• Possibly a doctor if you decide on a prescription option

1. A latex condom Stopping in the middle of foreplay can be a drag but it is likely to be an even bigger drag when you end up with an STD. If you are having sex with multiple partners then you might want to consider using condoms. These are 85 percent effective.
2. Doctor showing a woman a diaphram Using a diaphragm can be good for some women. It is hormone-free and you can insert it hours before sex, which makes it better than a condom in that sense. These are considered old school and are not frequently used. It has an 84 percent effectiveness rate and the only side effects are vaginal irritation and possible urinary tract infections.
3. Planning ahead is not necessary with today's sponge. You can buy the sponges over-the-counter, which is very convenient. There are some down sides to this choice though. They can often be difficult to remove and sometimes the spermicide that is used on them can irritate the vagina. They have an 84 percent effectiveness.
4. Consider the Nuva Ring. It is a soft plastic ring that is worn in the vagina for three weeks out of the month. It releases pill like hormones to prevent ovulation. Side effects can be vaginal irritation and headaches. It has a 92 percent effectiveness.
5. Looking for convenience? Try the patch. It is an adhesive patch that applies to the skin. You do have to replace it weekly but it also offers pill like hormones that prevent ovulation. Some women complain that the patch irritates the skin, they have breast tenderness, and nausea. It has a 92 percent effectiveness.
6. Remembering to swallow a little pill shouldn't be that difficult but for some women it is. The pill consists of the hormones estrogen and progesterone, which prevent ovulating. It has a 92 percent effectiveness. Side effects include nausea, headache, and break through bleeding.

Tips & Warnings

• Some of these birth control methods are available over-the-counter, others you have to see the gynecologist for a prescription.
• Examine your lifestyle before making a solid decision.
• All forms of birth control can cause side effects and may be harmful to your health.