ChemicalSpermicides Available otc in a

variety of forms (creams, foams, gels, suppositories)

Adds lubrication

Timing: must insert close to each intercourse

May cause allergic reaction

Possibility of irritation that could facilitate STI transmission

No STI Protection

SpermicideHow It Works Contraceptive foams block the entrance to the

uterus with bubbles and contain a spermicide that immobilizes sperm.

Contraceptive creams, jellies, film, and suppositories melt into a thick liquid throughout the vagina. They block the entrance to the uterus and contain spermicide that immobilizes sperm.

SpermicideEffectiveness Perfect Use: 85% if

used correctly and consistently

Typical Use: 71%

ChemicalThe Birth Control Pill Nothing to apply or insert

at time of intercourse More regular, Shorter

periods Ability to become

pregnant returns quickly when use is stopped

Protects against painful, heavy, or irregular periods

Must remember to take daily

Possible side effects: nausea, breast tenderness, weight gain or loss

Rare but serious health risks (Blood clots, heart attack, & stroke - these risks are higher for women over 35 who smoke)

No STI protection

The PillEffectiveness Perfect Use: 99+% Typical Use: 92%

ChemicalInjection Continuous protection

against pregnancy for 3 months

Nothing to apply or insert at time of intercourse

Menstruation stops for over half of women (some may not consider this an advantage)

Private

Requires injection Must remember to get

shot Side effects: weight

gain, irregular periods, headaches

Return to gertility may take several months

NO STI protection

InjectionEffectiveness Perfect Use: 99+% Typical Use: 97% Cost: $240-580 per

year

ChemicalBirth Control Patch Continuous

protection against pregnancy for 1 month

Nothing to apply or insert at time of intercourse

Must remember to replace patch weekly and not wear it the week of menstruation

Visible Not available in all

skin tones No STI protection

The PatchEffectiveness Perfect Use: 99+% Typical Use: 92%

ChemicalVaginal Ring 1 month protection No precise

placement necessary

Nothing to apply or insert at time of intercourse

Must remember to remove for the week of menstruation, and then insert new ring for the next 3 weeks

Requires high level of comfort with one’s body

No STI protection

Vaginal Ring Effectiveness Perfect Use: 99+% Typical Use: 92%