Over-The-Counter Birth Control Methods
By Dawn Stacey M.Ed, LMHC, About.com Guide to Contraception
Over-the-counter birth control methods are contraception options that do not require a doctor's prescription to obtain. Learn about condoms, female condoms, the sponge, and spermicides. Find out what is considered an OTC method, definitions, pros and cons, benefits and risks, effectiveness, STD protection, where to obtain and costs. Information about how to use over-the-counter contraception is also included.
Male Condoms
A male condom is a thin sheath made of latex rubber, polyurethane (plastic), or animal membrane. It fits over a man's erect penis during intercourse and is considered an effective over-the-counter, barrier method of reversible birth control. Other than a vasectomy, the condom is the only available method of birth control used by men. It is also one of the few birth control methods that can help protect against sexually transmitted infections.
- All About Male Condoms
- How Do I Choose a Condom?
- Different Types and Styles of Condoms
- How To Put a Condom on with Your Mouth
- How to Respond to Men's Excuses for Not Wanting to Wear a Condom
- How to Prevent Condom Failure
- Condom Quiz
- Safely Storing Condoms
Female Condoms
Female condoms are polyurethane (plastic) pouches with flexible rings at each end. They collect semen and prevent the sperm from entering the woman's body. Female condoms are a reversible barrier method of birth control and can be helpful in the protection against many sexually transmitted diseases.
The Sponge
The sponge is a soft, round barrier device that is about two inches in diameter. It is made of solid polyurethane foam, contains spermicide, and has a nylon loop attached to the bottom for removal. It covers the cervix (opening to the uterus), and it blocks sperm from entering it. Although taken off the market in 1995, the sponge is now available again as a reversible method of birth control.
Spermicide
Spermicide is a contraceptive method that immobilizes sperm. It can bebought over-the-counter. Vaginal contraceptives are available in several forms: spermicidal jelly, cream, foam, tablets, suppositories, the sponge, and film.
Personal Lubricants
Personal lubricants are specialized lubricants that help reduce friction during sexual intercourse. Water-based lubricants are water soluble and are the most widely available personal lubricant on the market. Silicone-based lubricants do not absorb into the skin, so they provide a durable glide. They typically do not cause allergic reactions or skin irritations. Lubricants containing silicone stay slippery longer than those that are water-based. There are also oil-based lubrication. Only water-based lubricants and certain brands of silicone-based lubrication are safe to use with latex condoms.
Plan B - Emergency Contraception
Plan B is the name of progestin-only birth control pills approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) specifically for emergency contraception. It is also known as the morning-after pill. Plan B is available OTC to individuals 18 years of age or older. The morning-after pill can be used up to 5 days (120) hours after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure.
- What is Emergency Contraception (Plan B, The Morning-After Pill)? Plan B Quiz!
- Information About Plan B
- How to Obtain and Use Plan B
- The Emergency Contraception/Plan B Debate
Pregnancy Tests
There are many different types and brands of home pregnancy tests, but they all work in the same way: They check a woman's urine for presence of hCG hormone. Blood pregnancy tests check for the same hCG hormone, only these detect the hormone in the blood and must be performed at a doctor's office. Learn about pregnancy tests, when to take them, and how accurate they are.
