Birth Control: What to Know

Preventing Pregnancy and Sexually Transmitted Diseases

If you decide to have sex, it’s important to know about birth control, or contraception, so you can protect against unplanned pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). STDs are infections that can spread can through vaginal, oral, or anal sex; by using fingers; or with other sexual contact. The only method that fully prevents pregnancy and STDs is abstinence (not having sex).

To help protect against STDs, use a barrier method, like a condom, each time you have sex. To help prevent pregnancy, use a reliable birth control method along with condoms. There are many types of birth control. A parent, doctor, or other trusted adult can give you advice on what may work best for you.

What Are Some Types of Birth Control?

Learn more about:

• Birth Control Patch
• Birth Control Pill
• Birth Control Ring
• Birth Control Shot
• Condoms
• Diaphragm
• Emergency Contraception (Morning-After Pill, Plan B, or ECP)
• Fertility Awareness
• Implantable Contraception
• IUD
• Spermicide
  
• Withdrawal