Birth Control Options for Men and Women

It's becoming summer and you've found the love of your life. Now you want to turn up the heat in your relationship but which form of protection do you use? And how many options are out there? Are they only options only for men? And what does and doesn't work for protection?

Let's start with what doesn't work:

Having sex during your period: While you may think that you can't get pregnant if you have sex during your period, you can. Not to mention you're at higher risk for HIV transmission.

Pulling out- A guy may try really hard to pull out before he comes, but in reality if you're in the moment, chances are he won't be thinking about that. Plus any pre-cum getting on or around the vagina can result in a pregnancy.

Going to the bathroom- Peeing after you've had sex won't flush away the sperm if there is any.

Douching- You may be thinking that you can wash out the sperm but actually you could be helping it reach an egg.

The Rhythym Method- It can work but chances are your cycle isn't completely regular and you have to do this perfectly for it to work.

Often times when thinking about protection one product comes up, the condom. But there are many other products for protection that women and men can use for safer sex.

Easiest-Cheap Protection- The condom. Never put a condom in a back pocket, in a glove box or anywhere else where the heat can get to it. It can cause the condom's effectiveness to break down. Animal skin isn't a good choice. Most condoms are made from latex. Some may have an allergic reaction to a latex condom. When choosing a lubricant make sure it's water based and not oil based. Remember: A condom can break so it's a good idea to have a backup to prevent pregnancy.


The Polyurethane Condom- A non latex condom for those who are allergic to latex. Customers have complained that they break twice as easily though.


The Women's Condom- Another condom that can help those who are allergic to latex or for guys that don't want to wear a condom but want to help in preventing pregnancy. Keep in mind that some do find the female condom a bit strange to look at.

Cervical Cap- Using spermicide on this silicone or latex cap, place it in the back of the vagina where it covers the cervix and it blocks out sperm. The bad news is that it can increase urinary tract infections and toxic shock syndrome. It comes in four sizes but still it may not work for everyone. You can get it through a prescription.

Diaphragm- The same as the cervical cap but has to be worn six hours after sex.


Spermicide- You place the spermicide which comes in creams, lotions, jellies, foams and films deep into the vagina. It takes time to allow the spermicide to work and it may contain chemicals that can cause an allergic reaction which then could increase STD and HIV infection. You must apply spermicide each time you have intercourse.
The Pill- Good idea to take everyday at the same time. Oestrogen and Progestogen pill make the lining of the vagina wall have thicker mucous lining so the sperm can't get through to prevent pregnancy. Bad side is you may forget the take the pill and many have side effects.

The Patch- Works the same as the pill but is worn outside of the body. Some may have a mild skin irritation from the patch.

Implants- Currently not available in the US. Placed in the upper arm of women that contains hormones that can prevent pregnancy for up to 5 years. Bad news is that the implant can fail and side effects include hair loss, weight gain, headaches and acne.

Injectable- Shots containing progestin are injected to prevent pregnancy. Can help protect women from cancer of the lining of the uterus. Some women lose their periods. Side effects include: hair loss, loss of interest in sex, weight gain, headaches, bloating and depression.

Intrauterine Device- A T-shaped device that is placed in the uterus where it can stay for up to 10 years. May increase cramps and bleeding during periods.

Vaginal Ring- A flexible ring worn inside the vagina for 3 weeks. In a small amount side effects were discharge, infection and irritation.

Vasectomy- A permanent solution of birth control for men. Tubes in the scrotum that carry sperm to the penis can be sealed or tied to prevent any sperm from reaching the penis. Swelling, bruising and infection are the cons.

Female sterilization- Fallopian tubes are closed by tying it off, removing it or putting an object in the tube that closes it off.

Abstinence is and always will be the one way that promises no pregnancy but if you want to be sure, there's always emergency contraception. The pill is taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex and a second dose is taken 12 hours after that dose. Both men and women can help to prevent pregnancy. Talk to your health care provider to decide what the best option is for you.