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Contraception Dictionary: O - P
Learn about the available birth control methods one word at a time.
These are just the briefest of definitions of some of the available birth control options beginning with the letters O and P. For more detailed descriptions see the individual page for each term.
These are just the briefest of definitions of some of the available birth control options beginning with the letters O and P. For more detailed descriptions see the individual page for each term.
Open Tubal Ligation
A open tubal ligation, or laparotomy procedure, is considered to be major surgery. During a laparotomy, the surgeon makes a larger incision in the abdomen. Then, the fallopian tubes will be pulled up into or out of the incision, closed off (tied, clipped, or sealed shut) with a device, and put back into place. A laparotomy is usually performed right before or after some other type of unrelated abdominal surgery.
Oral Contraceptives
Another name for "The Pill" - a contraceptive tablet that is taken daily in order to prevent pregnancy.
Over-the-Counter Birth Control
Barrier contraceptives that obstruct sperm from fertilizing an egg and are available without a doctor's prescription.
Ovrette
Information Ovrette (at progestin only pill that is used for emergency contraception).
ParaGard IUD
A small, T-shaped contraceptive device, about 1-1/4 inches wide by 1-3/8 inches long, made of flexible plastic and wrapped in copper.
Patch (Ortho Evra Patch)
A thin, beige, plastic patch that is applied (sticks) to the skin once a week for 3 weeks.
Permanent Birth Control
Specific surgical or non-surgical procedures that are designed to cause sterility in either males or females. Also known as permanent infertility.
Pill
A contraceptive tablet that is made up of synthetic forms of hormones that naturally occur in a female's body, taken daily, in order to prevent pregnancy.
Plan B
A brand of progestin-only pills approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) specifically for emergency contraception.
Plan B One Step
Plan B One-Step is a new form of emergency contraception approved by the FDA on July 13, 2009. It will replace Plan B.
Polyisoprene Condoms
Polyisoprene condoms (marketed under the name SKYN by Lifestyles) are a type of non latex condom and are made of a natural rubber.
Polyurethane Condoms
A condom made of a type of plastic, so they are a good alternative for people who are allergic to latex condoms.
Postcoital Contraception
Contraceptive method that can be used within 5 days of sexual intercourse to help prevent an unintended pregnancy.
Prescription Birth Control
Birth control methods that include medically prescribed hormones, barriers, or devices.
Progestin-Only Birth Control
Hormonal contraceptives that only contains progestin (no estrogen).
Progestin-Only Emergency Contraception
A type of progestin-only pill (such as Ovrette) which is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) specifically for emergency contraception.
Progestin-Only Pills
Oral contraceptive pill that only contains progestin (a synthetic form of the progesterone hormone) and does not have any estrogen.
Progestin Types
The eight types of progestin that are used in oral contraceptives (the pill).
Prophylactics
A thin sheath made of latex rubber, polyurethane (plastic), or animal membrane that fits over a man's erect penis during intercourse (also known as condoms).
