Birth Control Chart (Page 3 of 5) in pdf

control methods work. The copper IUD prevents sperm from fertilizing the egg or prevents the embryo from

attaching to the wall of the uterus. IUDs are not regularly prescribed for teens. The hormonal IUD can be used for

5 years while the copper IUD can be used for 10 years.

The IUD does not reduce the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Most common side effects of IUDs include heavier, longer periods and spotting between periods, cramping and

vaginal discharge. Most of these side effects will decrease after a few months. Less common side effects include

infection and, possibly, infertility. Rarely, some IUDs may come out on their own, and some may pierce the wall of

the uterus when being put in by a health care professional.

Implant

The implant is a small rod filled with progestin-only hormones that is inserted just under the skin of a female's

upper arm. It must be inserted by a health care professional. The implant releases a steady, low dose of a

hormone. The implant works to prevent the female from releasing eggs and by thickening the mucus in the cervix.

The implant can last for three years.

A hormone injection does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Side effects of the implant include irregular bleeding, weight changes, mood changes and headaches.

Male Condom

A male condom is a thin tube that covers the penis. Condoms are made from different materials. The most

common material for condoms is latex and studies show that latex condoms work best. It keeps sperm from going

into the vagina. By doing that, it lowers the chance of pregnancy. It also reduces the chances of spreading an

STD from one person to another during sex.

Your son or daughter needs to know that while condoms are the only type of contraception that can help protect

against STDs, they only reduce the risk but do not eliminate it. They are better at protecting against some

diseases than others. For example, studies show that when used all the time and used the right way, condoms

can reduce the risk of getting HIV infection.

Condoms only protect against STDs and pregnancy if they are used every time and are used the right way.

Natural skin condoms should not be used as a way to prevent STDs.

Even when a condom is used, a person can still get an STD. This is true for bacterial and viral infections that live

on the skin. For example, herpes and HPV, can be spread by infected areas of the skin that are not covered by a

condom. This is true even when physical symptoms are not showing.

Some condoms have a lubricant or spermicide that can irritate the vagina. Sometimes, but rarely, a person can be

allergic to the latex that condoms are made of.

Condoms may be bought over-the-counter.

Female Condom

A female condom is a polyurethane (plastic) tube or pouch that lines the vagina. The female condom reduces the

risk of pregnancy and some sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). It keeps the penis and sperm from coming into

contact with the vaginal wall or cervix.

Birth Control Chart Page 3