Abstinence

Abstinence
Effectiveness (chances of NOT

getting pregnant): 100%
What is Abstinence?
Refraining from vaginal, anal, or oral
intercourse.
Advantages of Abstinence:
No risk of unintended
pregnancy.
No risk of becoming infected

with a sexually transmitted
disease.
Opportunities to express
feelings and affection for
another in other ways.
Disadvantages of Abstinence:
Both partners must agree to

honor this choice.
Partners must have excellent

communication skills; yes
must mean yes and no must
mean no.
May need emergency

contraceptive method if this
method fails.
How do I decide?
Are you comfortable

expressing your feelings for
another in nonsexual ways?
Is your partner in agreement?
Does this method fit with

your religious or moral
beliefs?
Is abstinence the best

decision for you?
Do you want to discuss this

method with your clinician,
family planning clinic staff,
husband, partner, friend, or
family member?
In the Philadelphia area, click here for
a list of local family planning clinics.
Outside of Philadelphia, please click
here for a clinic near you.
It is a barrier contraceptive
method.
A soft rubber cup like device

that fits snuggly around the
base of the cervix.
It is used with spermicide for

prolonged and additional
pregnancy prevention.
What are the advantages of the
cervical cap?
Simple to use.
No serious side effects.
Does not require partner
involvement.
Good for persons who do not

have sex on a regular basis.
May decrease risks of some

sexually transmitted diseases.
Provides contraceptive
protection for up to 48 hours,
no matter how many times
lovemaking occurs.
Does not interrupt

lovemaking.
Does not interfere with

breast-feeding.
What are the disadvantages of
the cervical cap?
Consistent and correct use is

required to prevent
pregnancy.
Persons with allergies to latex

or spermicides cannot use.
Remains in vagina for at least

6 hours after intercourse.
Possible risk of Toxic Shock

Syndrome, if worn longer
than 48 hours.
May experience vaginal odor

with prolonged use.
How Do I Decide?
Click here to download PDF fact

sheet
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Cervical Cap
getting pregnant): 60-90 %
What is the cervical cap?
Are you comfortable inserting

a medical device into your
vagina?
Do you have sex frequently
(more than three times
weekly)? If so, you may want
to use another method.
Are you sensitive or allergic to
latex or spermicidal
products?
beliefs?
Is the cervical cap the best
method for you?
family member?

REMINDER: This method does not
provide any protection against sexually
transmitted diseases (STD's)
including HIV and Hepatitis B. Using
a condom consistently can help to
protect you from STD's.
Click here to download a PDF fact
sheet
For more information click here
top of page
Condom (Male)
getting pregnant): 86 - 97%
What is a male condom?
Made out of latex (rubber),

but polyurethane and tactylon
(both plastic) are available.
Over the counter barrier

method of birth control.
Advantages of the male condom:
Easy to get and relatively

inexpensive.
Can be discontinued at any

time.
Provides some protection

from sexually transmitted
diseases and HIV.
Reliable method for people

who cannot use hormonal
birth control methods.
Responsibility of both
partners.
Can be purchased without a

prescription.

breast-feeding.
Disadvantages of the male
condom; you may experience the
following:
Non-cooperative partner.
Some irritation or sensitivity
to latex.
Difficulty using condoms
correctly.
Must use a new condom with
every sex act.
Some men say it reduces
sexual feelings.
Must be rolled onto an erect

penis before sexual
intercourse, can interrupt
foreplay.
Spillage or leaking of sperm is

possible if condom is put on
or removed incorrectly.
How Should I decide?
Will you remember to use it

every time you have sex?
Will your partner be

cooperative in the use of this
method?
Can you or your partner

maintain an erection?

beliefs?
Is the condom the best

method for you?

partner, friend, or family
member?
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Depo-Provera ("The Shot")
getting pregnant): More than 99%
What is Depo-Provera?
It is an injection given every 3

months.
It contains synthetic
progesterone.
It stops ovulation, and/or

thickens the cervical mucus to
prevent sperm from passing
through.
It is a reversible method of
birth control given only by
prescription.
Advantages of Depo-Provera:
Does not interfere with sex.

Only need to get a shot 4
times a year.
May stop menses or make
them very light.
Excellent alternative for
women 35 and older who
smoke.
Reduces the risk of ovarian

and endometrial cancer.
Disadvantages of Depo-Provera:
Irregular or unpredictable
bleeding or spotting.
Possible hair loss.
Weight gain, especially right

after pregnancy.
It may delay your chances of

getting pregnant after the
shots are stopped. It can take
between six and eighteen
months for menstruation and
ovulation to return
consistently. This does not
mean that you are protected
from pregnancy during this
time. Use alternate
protection, such as condoms.
Does not protect against

sexually transmitted diseases
(see warning below).
You must go to the clinic or

doctor's office 4 times a year.
How Do I Decide?
Is getting a shot a problem for

you?
Do you have any medical

problems that will prevent
you from taking DepoProvera?
Do you have liver disease,

breast cancer or blood clots in
your arms, legs or lungs?
Do you have sex frequently or

not very often, if not very
often do you want extra
hormones in your body all the
time?

your religious, or moral
beliefs?
Is the Depo-Provera shot the

best decision for you?

family member?
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Diaphragm
getting pregnant): 80-94% (during
first year of use and whether or not you
have delivered a child)
What is a diaphragm?
Barrier type birth control

method prescribed by your
family planning clinician.
A dome shaped rubber cup

with flexible rim that covers
the cervix and is inserted into
the vagina before intercourse.
Used in combination with

spermicidal jelly or cream.
Advantages of the diaphragm:
Simple to use.
No serious systemic side
effects.

involvement.
Good for persons who do not

have sex on a regular basis.
Decreases risk of some

Does not interrupt

lovemaking.
Decreases risk of cervical

cancer.

breast-feeding.
Disadvantages of the diaphragm:
Consistent and correct use is

required to prevent
pregnancy.
Persons with allergies to latex

or spermicides cannot use.
Increased risks for developing

urinary tract infections
(UTI's).
Remains in vagina for at least

6 hours after intercourse.
Repeated sexual intercourse

requires additional
spermicide.
Must remove within 24 hours

to avoid risk of toxic shock
syndrome (TSS).
Must replace diaphragm

every two years.
How Do I Decide?
Are you comfortable touching

your vagina?
Are you comfortable inserting

a medical device into your
vagina?
Do you have sex frequently

(more than three times
weekly)? If so you may want
to use another method.

latex or spermicidal
products?

beliefs?
Is the diaphragm the best

method for you?

family member?
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ECP or Emergency Contraceptive
Pills
Effectiveness (chance of NOT getting
pregnant): 74 % - 89%
Interferes with egg

development.
Prevents or delays ovulation.
Inhibits fertilization.
Advantages of ECP or Emergency
Contraceptive Pills:
Only method of contraception

used to prevent pregnancy
after unprotected sex.
Only method used to prevent

pregnancy after male condom
slipped, broke, or leaked.

pregnancy after a woman's
diaphragm or cervical cap was
inserted incorrectly, removed
too early, or found to be torn.

pregnancy after a woman has
missed one or more of oral
contraceptives.

pregnancy when a female
condom was inserted or
removed incorrectly.
Method may be obtained

ahead of time from a family
planning clinician to be used
when needed. Plan B, a brand
name for ECP, is also
available at a pharmacy.
Women and men who are 18
or older can now purchase
Plan B over the counter with
proof of age. In most states,
including Pennsylvania,
women 17 or under will still
need a prescription from a
clinician for Plan B or other
ECP methods.
Disadvantages of ECP or
Emergency Contraceptive Pills:
What is the ECP or Emergency

Contraceptive Pills?
An emergency contraceptive
method used after sexual
intercourse to prevent
pregnancy.
Is most effective when used
within 12 hours of
unprotected intercourse or
contraceptive accident.
ECP can be used up to 72
hours or three days after
unprotected sex.
ECP only works if a woman is
not already pregnant.
Does not work if already

pregnant.
Limited time frame (ECP
must be used within 72 hours
or three days after
unprotected sex). Is not an
ongoing method of
contraception.
Nausea occurs in 23% to 50 %
of women who use this
method (medications to
prevent nausea are available).
Vomiting occurs in 5 to 25%
of women who use this
method (medications to
prevent vomiting are
available).
Ectopic (tubal) pregnancy
may be a possible result.
ECP changes the amount,
duration, and timing of the
next menstrual period in
about 10 to 15% of women

treated.
There is still a chance of

pregnancy. If menstrual cycle
does not start in 7 days,
consider pregnancy and
contact your family planning
clinician.
Does not provide protection

from sexually transmitted
diseases.
How do I decide?
Do you want to be pregnant?

Do you understand that there
is a possibility of pregnancy
after taking ECP?
Do you have unprotected sex

frequently?
Is 72 hours enough time for

you to make a decision and
get ECP?

beliefs?

family member?
For more information about ECP,
check out Not-2-Late.com, 1-888NOT-2-LATE or 1-800-330-1271. In
the Philadelphia area, click here for a
list of local family planning clinics.
Visit ec.princeton.edu to see the list of
resources.
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Female Condom
getting pregnant): 79% - 95%
What is the female condom?
Over the counter barrier

method of birth control.
It is polyurethane (plastic)
sheath with an inner ring that
fits inside the vagina, around

the cervix (like the
diaphragm) and an outer ring
that covers the outside labia.
After the man ejaculates, you

must twist the end closed and
gently pull from the vagina.
Advantages of the female
condoms:
Can be inserted into the

vagina up to eight hours
before sexual intercourse.
Can be used with spermicides

to increase STD protection.
Provides protection against

some sexually transmitted
diseases and HIV.
Can be used by people allergic

to latex or spermicides or by
those who can't take
hormones.
Made from polyurethane

plastic, which conducts body
heat.
Erection unnecessary to keep

female condom in place.
Some women and men have

an increased sensitivity or
"natural" feel compared to
male condoms.
Can be purchased without a

prescription.

breast-feeding.
Disadvantages of the female
condoms:
You may experience the following:
Difficulty inserting and/or

keeping in place.
Cannot be combined with

male condoms as they pull
each other off.
May be noisy (add more

lubricant if this is a problem).
May irritate vagina or penis.
More expensive than male

latex condoms.
Must be used every time you

have sex.
After the man ejaculates, you

must twist the end close and
gently pull from the vagina.
How do I decide?

your vaginal area?
Will you remember to use it
every time you have sex?
beliefs?
Is the female condom the best
method for you?

family member?
REMINDER: This method provides
some protection against sexually
transmitted diseases (STD's) including
HIV and Hepatitis B. Using condoms
consistently can help provide
protection from STD's.
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Female Sterilization
What is female sterilization?
A surgical intervention that
mechanically blocks the fallopian tube
to prevent the sperm
and egg from uniting.
Advantages of female
sterilization:
Very reliable and effective

method of contraception.
Permanent method.
No long term side effects.
Does not interrupt

lovemaking.

involvement.
Nothing to remember or buy.

breast-feeding.
Disadvantages of female
sterilization:
Permanent method.
Difficult and expensive to
reverse surgical procedure.
Requires skilled surgeon to

perform procedure.
Expensive procedure.
Possible ectopic (tubal)

pregnancy if method fails.
No protection against
How do I decide?
Are you sure you do not want

any more children?
Are you willing to have an

operation to prevent
pregnancy?
Have you considered other

methods?

beliefs?
Your decision for female

sterilization should be what is
best for you.

family member?
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Intrauterine Device ("IUD")
getting pregnant): 98% - 99%
What is an IUD?
Small plastic device which is

placed in the uterus by a
clinician.
Prevents sperm from

fertilizing egg.
Some contain synthetic

progesterone others have
copper on them.
It is a reversible method of
birth control given only by
prescription.
Advantages of the IUD:
Easy to use, low maintenance

method.
Easily inserted and removed
in a clinic or doctor's office.
Has no systemic side effects.
Depending on the type they
can be left in place 1, 5, or 10
years.
Reduces the risk of tubal

pregnancy.

breast-feeding.
Disadvantages of the IUD:
Must be inserted and

removed in a clinic or doctor's
office.
Easily inserted and removed

in a clinic or doctor's office.
May be some cramping or

pain at the time of insertion.
May experience increased

bleeding or cramping during
periods.
May experience spotting

between periods.
Should not be used by women

with multiple sex partners
because this increases
exposure to STD's, which
significantly increases the risk
of pelvic inflammatory
disease (PID).
How do I decide?

beliefs?
Do you have sex frequently?

(The IUD functions 24 hours
a day.)
Decide if it fits your birth

control needs.
Is the IUD the best method

for you?

family member?
a
list of local family planning clinics.
here for a clinic
near you.
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Norplant

What is Norplant?
Six capsules containing

synthetic hormones inserted
under the skin of your upper
arm.
Capsules slowly release

hormones into the
bloodstream over a 5-year
period.
These hormones stop the

ovaries from releasing an egg
each month.
Hormones also thicken

mucus in the cervix (opening
to the uterus), stopping
sperm from entering it.
Reversible method of birth

control.
Advantages of Norplant:
Long term method can stay in

for 5 years.
After 12 to 18 months of using

this method, periods usually
stop.
Can be removed anytime, and

the woman can become
pregnant right away.
Reduces risk of ovarian or

endometrial cancer.
Disadvantages of Norplant:
You may experience spotting

between periods, light
periods, longer periods, or no
periods.
You may experience weight

gain and hair loss.
It is expensive anywhere
between $500 and $700
depending on where you go
(at a Title X Federally
supported family planning
clinic fees are based on family
size and income, so fees could
range from $0 to $700).
It requires minor surgery for

insertion and removal of the
capsules (done in the clinic or
doctor's office).
Effectiveness is lowered by
most antiseizure medications.
How do I decide?
Is having a small scar and

having the capsules in your
body a problem for you?
Do you have any medical
problems such as breast
cancer, liver, or heart disease
that will prevent you from

using this method?

beliefs?

not very often? If not very
often, do you want
extrahormones in your body
all the time?
Is the Norplant method best

for you?

family member?
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NuvaRing ("The Ring")
Effectiveness
99% chance of NOT getting

pregnant
Less than 1 per 100 women

may become pregnant with
proper use.
What is the NuvaRing?
The NuvaRing is a
comfortable, flexible
contraceptive ring that is
about two inches in diameter
and contains synthetic low
dose hormones (progestin
and estrogen); these
hormones are similar to those
produced by a womens body.
The NuvaRing is placed
directly into the vagina;
hormones are released from
the ring and are directly
absorbed through the walls of
the vagina then distributed
into the bloodstream.
Pregnancy is prevented
because the ring prevents the
ovaries from producing
mature eggs.
The ring is a reversible

method of birth control
available only by
prescription.
Advantages of NuvaRing

Ability to remove the ring at
leisure.
No need to remember to put

it on daily/weekly. Month
long protection (3 weeks in, 1
week out)
Exact positioning of the

NuvaRing is not critical;
however the ring should be
placed high in the vault of the
vagina.
Muscles within the vagina

allow the ring to stay in place
during sex and/or exercise.
Reduces menstrual flow and

cramping.
Decreases acne outbreaks.

Ability to become pregnant

immediately after
discontinued use, if seeking
pregnancy.
Disadvantages of NuvaRing
Not a good choice if patient is

uncomfortable with touching
herself.
Increased risk of heart attack,

stroke, or blood clots (in
lungs, legs, or arms),
especially if you smoke more
than 15 cigarettes a day, or
are over 35 and smoke.
Patient may experience

vagina discomfort and
discharge.
If the ring is kept out of the

vagina longer than 3 hours on
any day during the 21 day
period (3weeks) pregnancy
can occur; therefore a backup method (condoms) is
recommended for 7 days.
Does not prevent sexually

transmitted diseases (see
warning below).
For more detailed information and
how to use the ring click here.

breast cancer and/or blood
clots in lungs, legs, or arms?
Are you taking any

medications that may
interfere with the
effectiveness of the ring?
(Consult with a clinician)

beliefs?
transmitted diseases
(STD's) including HIV and Hepatitis B.
Using a condom consistently can help
to protect you from STD's.
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Ortho Evra ("The Patch")

Effectiveness
95% - 99% chance of NOT

getting pregnant
Between 1 and 5 per 100

women may become pregnant
with proper use.
What is the Patch?
How Do I Decide?

your genitalia to place and
remove the ring?
Are you smoking more than
15 cigarettes a day? If yes this
method may not be good for
you.
The Patch contains synthetic

hormones (progesterone and
estrogen); these hormones
are similar to those produced
by a womens body.
The patch is placed directly
on the skin; these hormones
are released from the patch
directly through the skin into
the bloodstream.
because the patch stops
ovulation and/or thickens the
cervical mucus and stops
sperm from passing through.
The patch is a reversible
method of birth control
available only by
prescription.
The patch is less effective in
women weighting more than
198lbs.
Advantages of the Patch

No need to remember to put
it on daily. Apply a new patch
once a week.

cramping.

Ability to become pregnant

immediately after
discontinued use, if seeking
pregnancy.
Disadvantages of the Patch
May cause slight skin

irritation at the patch site.

Possible mood swings or

depression.
Women are encouraged not to

use creams, lotions, or oils
near the patch site these
agents may cause the patch to
detach.

warning below).
Recent news stories
overstate the blood clot risk
from the Ortho Evra
contraceptive patch, experts
tell WebMD. For more
information visit:
http://www.my.webmd.com/content/
Article/108/109067.htm
http://www.orthoevra.com/about/ma
nufacturing_statement.html
How Do I Decide?
Can you remember to put on

a new patch once a week?
Are you smoking more than
15 cigarettes a day? If yes this
method may not be good for
you.
beliefs?

transmitted diseases
(STD's) including HIV and Hepatitis B.
Using a condom consistently can help
to protect you from STD's.

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Oral Contraceptives ("The Pill")
Effectiveness
95% - 99% chance of NOT

getting pregnant.
Between 1-5 per 100 women

may become pregnant with
proper use.
What is the Pill?
Synthetic hormones
(progesterone and/or
estrogen) like those produced
by the body to regulate the
menstrual cycle.
because the pill stops
ovulation and/or thickens the
cervical
mucus by stopping sperm
from passing through.
Reversible method of birth

control given only by
prescription.
Advantages of the Pill:
Doesn't interfere with sex.

Regulates the menstrual
cycle.

cramping.

Most popular method used.

Disadvantages of the Pill:
How do I decide?
Must be taken every day at

the same time each day.
Possible mood swings or
depression.
May decrease sexual desire.
Can not be used if you are 35
or older and smoke.
warning below).
Can you remember to take a

pill every day?

not very often?If not very
often, do you want to take a
pill every day?
Are there some medical

problems that prevent you
from taking the pill?


beliefs?
Is the pill the best method for

you?

family member?
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(condom, diaphragm, cervical

cap).
May lower the chance of

becoming infected with a
bacterial sexually transmitted
disease.
Can be purchased without

prescription.
Depending on the amount

purchased is relatively
inexpensive.
Immediate protection is
available.
Good method for persons

who have sexual intercourse
infrequently or not very often.
Simple back up method for

women waiting to start the
pill or have an IUD inserted,
or for forgetting to take pill or
running out of pills.
Provides lubrication during

intercourse especially with
condom use.
Male partner does not need to

be involved in decision to use
product.
Does not interfere with breast

feeding.
Disadvantages of vaginal
spermicides:
Allergic reactions or
hypersensitivity to
ingredients may occur.
Some persons may have

difficulty inserting properly.
Abnormal vaginal anatomy

(e.g. prolapsed uterus) may
interfere with proper
insertion.
Poor protection from HIV

exposure.
How do I decide?
Vaginal Spermicides

getting pregnant): 50-95% (among
typical users in the first year of use)
What are vaginal spermicides?
A chemical birth control

method that kills sperm and
prevents pregnancy.
Comes in the form of gel,

foam, cream, film,
suppository, or tablet.
Advantages of vaginal
spermicides:
A relatively safe contraceptive

method when combined with
the use of a barrier method

ingredients in product?
Do you have sexual
intercourse infrequently?
This may a good choice for
you.
your vagina?
Do you want to use vaginal
spermicides as a backup?
beliefs?
Your decision should be what
is best for you.
family member?

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Vasectomy (Male Sterilization)
getting pregnant): 99% or more
What is a Vasectomy?
A surgical procedure that prevents
pregnancy by blocking the passage of
sperm into the
ejaculated seminal fluid (cum).
Advantages of Vasectomy:
Permanent method of
contraceptive.
Highly effective method.
Very safe surgical procedure.
Removes the responsibility of

contraception from the
woman.
No significant long term side

effects.
Does not interrupt

lovemaking.
Highly acceptable method.
A no scalpel Vasectomy is also

available.
Disadvantages of Vasectomy:
Protection for the male only

(females are at risk for
pregnancy).
Usually irreversible.
Requires skilled medical
personnel.
Lack of protection from
and infections, including HIV.
Initial cost may be expensive,
some times considered an
elective procedure, and
requires self-pay. However,
the long term cost benefits
are great.
Although unproven, serious
long-term effects are possible.
How do I decide?
Are you sure you do not want

any more children?
Can you tolerate a surgical

procedure?
Can you afford the

procedure?
Have other methods been

considered?
Does this method fit your

religious or moral beliefs?
Is a Vasectomy the best

decision for you?

partner, friend, or family
member?
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Withdrawal (Coitus Interruptus)
Effectiveness (chance of NOT getting
pregnant): 81% - 96%
What is Withdrawal?
A contraceptive method that

prevents fertilization by
preventing the contact
between the sperm and egg.
Couple engages in penilevaginal intercourse until

ejaculation is about to occur.
The male partner withdraws

his penis from the vagina and
away from the external
genitalia of the female
partner.
Advantages of Withdrawal:
Costs nothing.
Requires no devices.
Involves no chemicals.
Available in any situation.

Disadvantages of Withdrawal:
Chances of getting pregnant

with this method are much
higher than with any other
method.
Some men have difficulty

telling when they will
ejaculate.
Some men may not withdraw

in sufficient time.
Interruption of the
excitement or plateau phase
of the sexual response cycle
may
decrease pleasurable
experience.
High risk of contracting

and infections.
How do I decide?
Is the risk of getting pregnant

too large?
What about the risk of
contracting a sexually
transmitted disease?
Does the method fit with your
religious or moral beliefs?
family member?
Key facts
An estimated 225
million women in
developing countries
would like to delay
or stop childbearing
but are not using
any method of
contraception.
Some family
planning methods,
such as condoms,
help prevent the
transmission of HIV
and other sexually
transmitted
infections.
Family planning /
contraception
reduces the need for
abortion, especially
unsafe abortion.
Family planning
reinforces peoples
rights to determine
the number and
spacing of their
children.
By preventing
unintended
pregnancy, family
planning
/contraception
prevents deaths of
mothers and
children.
Family planning allows

people to attain their
desired number of children
and determine the spacing
of pregnancies. It is
achieved through use of
contraceptive methods and
the treatment of infertility
(this fact sheet focuses on
contraception).
Benefits of family
planning / contraception
Promotion of family
planning and ensuring
access to preferred
contraceptive methods for
women and couples is
essential to securing the
well-being and autonomy of
women, while supporting
the health and
development of
communities.
Preventing pregnancyrelated health risks in
women
A womans ability to choose

if and when to become
pregnant has a direct
impact on her health and
well-being. Family planning
allows spacing of
pregnancies and can delay
pregnancies in young
women at increased risk of
health problems and death
from early childbearing. It
prevents unintended
pregnancies, including
those of older women who
face increased risks related
to pregnancy. Family
planning enables women
who wish to limit the size of
their families to do so.
Evidence suggests that

women who have more
than 4 children are at
increased risk of maternal
mortality.
By reducing rates of
unintended pregnancies,
family planning also
reduces the need for
unsafe abortion.
Reducing infant mortality
Family planning can

prevent closely spaced and
ill-timed pregnancies and
births, which contribute to
some of the worlds highest
infant mortality rates.
Infants of mothers who die
as a result of giving birth
also have a greater risk of
death and poor health.
Helping to prevent
HIV/AIDS
Family planning reduces

the risk of unintended
pregnancies among women
living with HIV, resulting in
fewer infected babies and
orphans. In addition, male
and female condoms
provide dual protection
against unintended
pregnancies and against
STIs including HIV.
Empowering people and
enhancing education
Family planning enables

people to make informed
choices about their sexual
and reproductive health.
Family planning represents
an opportunity for women
to pursue additional
education and participate
in public life, including paid
employment in non-family
organizations. Additionally,
having smaller families
allows parents to invest
more in each child. Children
with fewer siblings tend to
stay in school longer than
those with many siblings.
Reducing adolescent
pregnancies
Pregnant adolescents are

more likely to have preterm
or low birth-weight babies.
Babies born to adolescents
have higher rates of
neonatal mortality. Many
adolescent girls who
become pregnant have to
leave school. This has longterm implications for them
as individuals, their families
and communities.
Slowing population growth
Family planning is key to

slowing unsustainable
population growth and the
resulting negative impacts
on the economy,
environment, and national
and regional development
efforts.
Who provides family
planning /
contraceptives?
It is important that family
planning is widely available
and easily accessible
through midwives and
other trained health
workers to anyone who is
sexually active, including
adolescents. Midwives are
trained to provide (where
authorised) locally available
and culturally acceptable
contraceptive methods.
Other trained health
workers, for example
community health workers,
also provide counselling
and some family planning
methods, for example pills
and condoms. For methods
such as sterilization,
women and men need to be
referred to a clinician.
Contraceptive use
Contraceptive use has
increased in many parts of
the world, especially in Asia
and Latin America, but
continues to be low in subSaharan Africa. Globally,

use of modern
contraception has risen
slightly, from 54% in 1990
to 57.4% in 2014.
Regionally, the proportion
of women aged 1549
reporting use of a modern
contraceptive method has
risen minimally or
plateaued between 2008
and 2014. In Africa it went
from 23.6% to 27.6%, in
Asia it has risen slightly
from 60.9% to 61.6%, and
in Latin America and the
Caribbean it rose slightly
from 66.7% to 67.0%.
Use of contraception by
men makes up a relatively
small subset of the above
prevalence rates. The
modern contraceptive
methods for men are
Method
limited to male condoms

and sterilization
(vasectomy).
Global unmet need for
contraception
An estimated 225 million
women in developing
countries would like to
delay or stop childbearing
but are not using any
method of contraception.
Reasons for this include:
limited choice of
methods;
limited access to
contraception,
particularly among
young people,
poorer segments of
populations, or
unmarried people;
fear or experience of
side-effects;
cultural or religious
opposition;
poor quality of
available services;
How it
Description works
Effectivene
ss to
prevent
pregnancy
>99% with
correct and
Contains two
consistent
Combined
hormones
Prevents the use
oral
(estrogen
release of
contraceptiv and
eggs from
92% as
es (COCs) or progestogen the ovaries
commonly
the pill
)
(ovulation)
used
Comments
Reduces risk of
endometrial
and ovarian
cancer
99% with
correct and
consistent
use
Thickens
cervical
mucous to
block sperm
Progestogen Contains
and egg
-only pills
only
from
(POPs) or
progestogen meeting and 9097% as
"the
hormone,
prevents
commonly
minipill"
not estrogen ovulation
used
Can be used
while
breastfeeding;
must be taken
at the same
time each day
Implants
Health-care
Small,
Thickens
>99%
users and providers

bias
gender-based
barriers.
The unmet need for
contraception remains too
high. This inequity is fuelled
by both a growing
population, and a shortage
of family planning services.
In Africa, 23.2% of women
of reproductive age have
an unmet need for modern
contraception. In Asia, and
Latin America and the
Caribbean regions with
relatively high
contraceptive prevalence
the levels of unmet need
are 10.9 % and 10.4%,
respectively (World
Contraceptive Reports
2013, UNDESA).
Contraceptive methods
Modern methods
Method
How it
Description works
flexible rods
or capsules
placed under
the skin of
the upper
arm;
contains
progestogen
hormone
only
Effectivene
ss to
prevent
pregnancy
provider must
insert and
remove; can
be used for 3
5 years
depending on
implant;
irregular
vaginal
bleeding
common but
not harmful
cervical
mucous to
block sperm
and egg
from
meeting and
prevents
ovulation
>99% with
correct and
consistent
use
Injected into
the muscle
every 2 or 3
Progestogen months,
only
depending
injectables
on product
Injected
Monthly
monthly into
injectables
the muscle,
or combined contains
injectable
estrogen
contraceptiv and
es (CIC)
progestogen
Combined
contraceptiv
e patch and
combined
contraceptiv
e vaginal
ring (CVR)
Continuously
releases 2
hormones
a progestin
and an
estrogendirectly
through the
skin (patch)
or from the
ring.
Comments
Thickens
cervical
mucous to
block sperm
and egg
from
meeting and 97% as
prevents
commonly
ovulation
used
Delayed return
to fertility
(about 14
months on the
average) after
use; irregular
vaginal
bleeding
common, but
not harmful
>99% with
correct and
consistent
use
Prevents the
release of
eggs from
97% as
the ovaries
commonly
(ovulation)
used
Irregular
vaginal
bleeding
common, but
not harmful
Prevents the
release of
eggs from
the ovaries
(ovulation)
The Patch and

the CVR
provide a
comparable
safety and
pharmacokinet
ic profile to
COCs with
similar
hormone
formulations.
The patch
and the CVR
are new and
research on
effectiveness
is limited.
Effectiveness
studies
report that it
may be more
effective
than the
COCs, both
as commonly
Effectivene
ss to
prevent
pregnancy
Comments
>99%
Longer and
heavier
periods during
first months of
use are
common but
not harmful;
can also be
used as
emergency
contraception
Suppresses
the growth
of the lining
of uterus
(endometriu
m)
>99%
Decreases
amount of
blood lost with
menstruation
over time;
Reduces
menstrual
cramps and
symptoms of
endometriosis;
amenorrhea
(no menstrual
bleeding) in a
group of users
Method
How it
Description works
Intrauterine
device
(IUD):
copper
containing
Small
flexible
plastic
device
containing
copper
sleeves or
wire that is
inserted into
the uterus
A T-shaped
plastic
device
inserted into
the uterus
that steadily
releases
Intrauterine small
device (IUD) amounts of
levonorgestr levonorgestr
el
el each day
Male
condoms
Sheaths or
coverings
that fit over
a man's
erect penis
Female
condoms
Sheaths, or
linings, that
fit loosely
inside a
woman's
vagina,
made of
thin,
transparent,
soft plastic
film
Copper
component
damages
sperm and
prevents it
from
meeting the
egg
Forms a
barrier to
prevent
sperm and
egg from
meeting
98% with
correct and
consistent
use
85% as
commonly
used
Also protects
against
sexually
transmitted
infections,
including HIV
90% with
correct and
consistent
use
Forms a
barrier to
prevent
sperm and
egg from
meeting
79% as
commonly
used
Also protects
against
sexually
transmitted
infections,
including HIV
Method
How it
Description works
Permanent
contraceptio
n to block or
cut the vas
deferens
tubes that
Male
carry sperm
sterilization from the
(vasectomy) testicles
Female
sterilization
(tubal
ligation)
Permanent
contraceptio
n to block or
cut the
fallopian
tubes
Lactational
amenorrhea
method
(LAM)
Temporary
contraceptio
n for new
mothers
whose
monthly
bleeding has
not returned;
requires
exclusive or
full
breastfeedin
g day and
night of an
infant less
than 6
months old
Emergency
contraceptio
n
(levonorgest
Progestogen
-only pills
taken to
prevent
Effectivene
ss to
prevent
pregnancy
>99% after
3 months
semen
evaluation
Comments
Keeps
sperm out of 9798% with
ejaculated
no semen
semen
evaluation
3 months
delay in taking
effect while
stored sperm
is still present;
does not affect
male sexual
performance;
voluntary and
informed
choice is
essential
Eggs are
blocked
from
meeting
sperm
Voluntary and
informed
choice is
essential
>99%
99% with
correct and
consistent
use
Prevents the
release of
eggs from
98% as
the ovaries
commonly
(ovulation)
used
Prevents
ovulation
If all 100
women used
progestinonly
A temporary
family
planning
method based
on the natural
effect of
breastfeeding
on fertility
Does not
disrupt an
already
existing
Method
Standard
Days
Method or
SDM
How it
Description works
Women
track their
fertile
periods
(usually
days 8 to 19
of each 26 to
32 day
cycle) using
cycle beads
or other aids
Woman
takes her
body
temperature
at the same
time each
morning
before
getting out
of bed
observing
Basal Body
for an
Temperature increase of
(BBT)
0.2 to 0.5
Method
degrees C.
TwoDay
Method
Women
track their
fertile
Prevents
pregnancy
by avoiding
unprotected
vaginal sex
during most
fertile days.
Effectivene
ss to
prevent
pregnancy
Comments
95% with
consistent
and correct
use.
Can be used to
identify fertile
days by both
women who
want to
become
pregnant and
women who
want to avoid
pregnancy.
Correct,
consistent use
requires
partner
cooperation.
88% with
common use
(Arevalo et
al 2002)
99%
effective
with correct
and
consistent
use.
Prevents
pregnancy
by avoiding
unprotected
vaginal sex
during
fertile days
Prevents
pregnancy
by avoiding
75% with
typical use
of FABM
(Trussell,
2009)
96% with
correct and
consistent
If the BBT has

risen and has
stayed higher
for 3 full days,
ovulation has
occurred and
the fertile
period has
passed. Sex
can resume on
the 4th day
until her next
monthly
bleeding.
Difficult to use
if a woman
has a vaginal
Method
How it
Description works
Effectivene
ss to
prevent
pregnancy
use.
periods by
observing
presence of
cervical
mucus (if
any type
color or
consistency)
Symptothermal
Method
Women
track their
fertile
periods by
observing
changes in
the cervical
mucus (clear
texture) ,
body
temperature
(slight
increase)
and
consistency
of the cervix
(softening).
Traditional methods
Tradition
al
Methods
unprotected
vaginal sex
during most
fertile days,
86% with
typical or
common
use.
(Arevalo,
2004)
Comments
infection or
another
condition that
changes
cervical
mucus.
Unprotected
coitus may be
resumed after
2 consecutive
dry days (or
without
secretions)
98% with
correct and
consistent
use.
Reported
98% with
typical use
(Manhart et
al, 2013)
Prevents
pregnancy
by avoiding
unprotected
vaginal sex
during most
fertile
May have to
be used with
caution after
an abortion,
around
menarche or
menopause,
and in
conditions
which may
increase body
temperature.
Women
monitor their
Tradition pattern of
al
menstrual
Methods cycle over 6
months,
subtracts 18
from shortest
cycle length
(estimated 1st
fertile day) and
subtracts 11
Calendar
from longest
method or cycle length
rhythm
(estimated last
method
fertile day)
Withdraw
al (coitus
interruptu
s)
Man withdraws
his penis from
his partner's
vagina, and
ejaculates
outside the
vagina,
keeping semen
away from her
external
genitalia
WHO response
WHO is working to promote
family planning by
producing evidence-based
guidelines on safety and
service delivery of
contraceptive methods,
The couple
prevents
pregnancy by
avoiding
unprotected
vaginal sex
during the 1st
and last
estimated
fertile days,
by abstaining
or using a
condom.
91% with
correct
and
consisten
t use.
May need to
delay or use with
caution when
using drugs (such
as anxiolytics,
antidepressants,
NSAIDS, or
certain
75% with antibiotics) which
common may affect timing
use
of ovulation.
96% with
correct
and
consisten
t use
Tries to keep
sperm out of
the woman's
body,
preventing
fertilization
One of the least

effective
methods, because
proper timing of
withdrawal is
73% as
commonl often difficult to
determine,
y used
(Trussell, leading to the risk
of ejaculating
2009)
while inside the
vagina.
developing quality
standards and providing
pre-qualification of
contraceptive commodities,
and helping countries
introduce, adapt and
implement these tools to

meet their needs. WHO is
also developing new
methods to expand
contraceptive choices for
men and women.

Abstinence

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Abstinence

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Abstinence

Effectiveness (chances of NOT

No risk of becoming infected

Both partners must agree to

Partners must have excellent

May need emergency

Are you comfortable

Is your partner in agreement?

Does this method fit with

Is abstinence the best

Do you want to discuss this

A soft rubber cup like device

It is used with spermicide for

Good for persons who do not

May decrease risks of some

Does not interrupt

Does not interfere with

Consistent and correct use is

Persons with allergies to latex

Remains in vagina for at least

Possible risk of Toxic Shock

May experience vaginal odor

Click here to download PDF fact

Are you comfortable inserting

In the Philadelphia area, click here for

Made out of latex (rubber),

Over the counter barrier

Easy to get and relatively

Can be discontinued at any

Provides some protection

Reliable method for people

Can be purchased without a

Does not interfere with

Must be rolled onto an erect

Spillage or leaking of sperm is

Will you remember to use it

Will your partner be

Can you or your partner

Does this method fit with

Is the condom the best

Do you want to discuss this

It is an injection given every 3

It stops ovulation, and/or

Does not interfere with sex.

Reduces the risk of ovarian

Possible hair loss.

Weight gain, especially right

It may delay your chances of

Does not protect against

You must go to the clinic or

Is getting a shot a problem for

Do you have any medical

Do you have liver disease,

Do you have sex frequently or

Does this method fit with

Is the Depo-Provera shot the

Do you want to discuss this

For more information click here

Barrier type birth control

A dome shaped rubber cup

Used in combination with

Does not require partner

Good for persons who do not

Decreases risk of some