1. Health

Contraception: Most Popular Articles

These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Am I Pregnant? Quiz – Having Pregnancy Symptoms?
Are you having pregnancy symptoms? Figure out whether or not you could be pregnant by taking our simple Am I Pregnant quiz.
Penis Size
In your search to find the perfect condom, you should know your penis size. Learn everything you need to know about how to measure penis size.
Condom Size Chart
Look no farther - here is the comprehensive condom size chart you've been waiting for! It includes many of your favorite condom brands - LifeStyles, Trojan, Beyond 7, Durex, Kimino, Sensis and Caution Wear. From super snug to XL condoms, this condom size chart has all the information you need to find the perfect condom fit.
The Female Body and Conception
Understanding the female body, your fertile period and the menstruation cycle. Learn about conception and fertilization. Find out all about ovulation, fertility and determine when do you ovulate. The female body has a definite fertile period and an ovulation cycle. Knowing about your menstruation cycle can help you figure out, am I pregnant? Learn when a pregnancy is considered to be established.
Depo Provera Side Effects
Information about Depo Provera, the birth control shot. This injection is a reversible method of prescription birth control method. Use this guide to learn what to expect during your first year of using the Depo Provera shot and its newer version, the Depo-subQ Provera 104 Injection. Side effects, such as irregular bleeding, weight gain, and stopping of your period are discussed.
Loestrin
Loestrin is a birth control pill that contains ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone. It is different than typical 28 day combination pills. Find out why and see if this is the right pill for you.
Am I Pregnant Quiz - See if Your Birth Control May Have Failed You
What if I am pregnant? Many women may be thinking this if their period is late. Other questions you may have could include: Am I pregnant? When will I know, and how can I tell if I'm pregnant? What do I do if I might be pregnant? Find out some of the common signs and symptoms of early pregnancy. Use this information or take our pregnancy quiz to find out your chances of being pregnant due to contraception failure. Information provided to help women determine if their birth control failed.
IUD Removal
Learn what to expect during your IUD removal. Be prepared for your ParaGard removal or know what to expect during your Mirena IUD removal. Information about the procedure for removing intrauterine devices is explained in detail. Know what to expect and find out about possible complications.
Implanon
Implanon, a contraceptive implant, is a single rod inserted into the upper arm. An effective and new birth control method, Implanon (the birth control implant) provides pregnancy protection for up to three years. Implanon is hormonal birth control that slowly releases small amounts of progestin. The contraceptive implant procedure is simple and protection usually begins after the implant is inserted. Find out: Implanon side effects, advantages and disadvantages, Implanon cost and how to obtain.
ParaGard
ParaGard, the Copper T 380A, is an IUD that releases copper, so it is hormone-free. ParaGard also lasts for 10 years! Learn about this highly effective FDA approved intrauterine device.
Birth Control Myths
With all the birth control information available, it is hard to separate out birth control facts from all of the sex myths and birth control myths. Learn the 10 most important things you should know about birth control and contraception. Can you get pregnant while on your period? What if you pull out? Are these myths? Are different birth control types better? Can you have sex under water? Contraception and sex can be a bit tricky. Find out the most common birth control myths and sex myths.
IUD Failure
Learn about ways to prevent IUD failure when using either the Mirena IUD or the ParaGard IUD. Find out how to correctly check your IUD strings to make sure your IUD is still in place.
Depo Bleeding
Depo Provera is a popular prescription birth control method. Unscheduled or continous depo bleeding leads many women stop using Depo Provera. Are you wondering if your depo bleeding will ever stop? Learn about some possible Depo Provera bleeding treatments so you can be happy with depo again.
Blood Pregnancy Tests
Information about blood pregnancy tests. Pregnancy tests detect the human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) hormone in the blood. Learn what to expect from a blood pregnancy tests. The differences between quantitative and qualitative blood tests are explained as well as how blood pregnancy tests compare to home pregnancy or urine tests. The accuracy of blood pregnancy tests is also explored.
Certain Times To Be Careful
A woman is most fertile and more likely to get pregnant when having intercourse around the time that she ovulates - read more on determining when one is most fertile, tips on predicting ovulation, and learning about the certain times to be most careful. Find out how to manage your fertility.
Skip Period with The Pill
Learn how to skip your period using the pill. Many women are having no more periods by using birth control pills. Using oral contraceptives can allow you to skip periods or reduce symptoms through continuous birth control pill use. Skipping periods is safe and an easy way to avoid your monthly menstrual cycle.
IUD Strings
Missing IUD strings may be a sign that your IUD has moved out of place. If you tried to check your IUD strings and can’t feel them, find out what you should do.
Buy Plan B One-Step
Do you need to buy Plan B One-Step? This morning-after pill is now available OTC for those age 15 and older.
Home Pregnancy Tests
How accurate are home pregnancy tests - really? Learn how home pregnancy tests work, the accuracy of home pregnancy tests, and whether to trust the results.
Surgical Tubal Ligation
Tubal ligation (also known as having one's tubes tied) is a permanent form of female sterilization. This is a surgical procedure that closes off a woman's fallopian tubes. Learn more about the various surgical tubal ligation procedures such as laparoscopy, mini-laparoscopy, and laparotomy (open tubal ligation), as well as what to expect. All methods presented include incisions.
When Do You Ovulate
Many women want to know when do you ovulate? Find out who ovulates as well as what leads up to ovulation and what happens afterwards.
Birth Control Effects - Minimizing Birth Control Effects
With so many birth control pill brands available, how do you know which pill is the best one for you to minimize birth control effects? Knowing the differences between the progestins in the pill as well as estrogenic effects, androgenic effects and progestational selectivity can help minimize birth control effects. Use this guide in choosing a birth control pill or to pick a different pill brand to help lessen a birth control effect that you may be experiencing.
Mirena
Mirena IUD provides a long-term birth control option without sterilization. Mirena releases the progestin, levonorgestrel. Learn more about this highly effective contraceptive device.
How To Use a Home Test
Information about home pregnancy tests. Find out how to use a home pregnancy test as well as when to take a pregnancy test. Plus, learn tips about home pregnancy testing.
About Abortion
Abortion means ending a pregnancy. Given that unintended pregnancy is an issue that affects thousands of people each year, abortion is one of the most common medical procedures performed in the United States. Learn about abortion facts, reasons for abortion, and various abortion procedures.
Condom Types and Styles
How do you pick from all the condom brands and condom types? When choosing a condom style, consider condom use: is the condom for sex play or for contraception? Learn about colored condoms, flavored condoms, and warming condoms. Plus, find out about pleasure shaped, glow-in-the-dark, and French tickler condom types.
The Pill and Pregnancy
Some women may become pregnant while using birth control pills. If this has happened to you, you may be worrying whether the pill may harm the baby or growing fetus. If you find out that you are pregnant while using the pill, it may be helpful to know that there is no conclusive evidence indicating that the pill will harm your baby in any way.
8 Progestin Types
All combination birth control pills contain estrogen and progestin. There are eight progestin types that are used in oral contraceptives. Learn about the different progestin types including the first generation, second generation, and third generation progestins. Information about the estrogenic effects, androgenic effects, and progestational selectivity of each type of progestin.
Pill Myths
There are many common myths about the pill - here are the top 10 pill myths. Learn the truth about the pill!
Vasectomy Cost
How much does a vasectomy cost? Does insurance cover vasectomies? Does the cost of a vasectomy vary depending on where it is performed? Find out the answers to these questions and more.
Am I Pregnant
What if I'm pregnant? Many women may be thinking this if their period is late. Other questions you may have could include: Am I pregnant? Did my birth control fail? When will I know, and how can I tell if I'm pregnant? What do I do if I have an unintended pregnancy?
IUD pregnancy
IUDs are one of the most effective reversible birth control methods available. The Mirena IUD and ParaGard IUD are over 99% effective. Although these numbers are very promising, it also means that less than 1% of the time, a woman will have an IUD pregnancy. If you got pregnant with an IUD was in place, learn how manage an IUD pregnancy.
No More Periods
Women are choosing to have no more periods. Extended cycle pills, like Seasonale, Seasonique, Lybrel, and Yaz can provide fewer periods, which can mean less pain, PMS, cramps, and mood swings. Women can skip periods or reduce menstruation symptoms through continuous birth control pill use. Is it safe to skip periods? Find out about the safety of using long-term oral contraceptives to have fewer periods and learn why many women are having no more periods by using continuous birth control pills.
Water Sex Myths
Is sex under water safe? Having water sex requires planning ahead of time, since birth control that contain spermicide are not suitable for intercourse in the sea, pool, hot tub or bathtub. Can a woman become pregnant during under water sex? Learn myths about sex under water and common misconceptions about sex in Jacuzzis or hot tubs.
IUD Insertion
What to expect during your IUD insertion. Learn about the IUD insertion procedure. Be prepared for your ParaGard IUD insertion or when getting your Mirena IUD. Information about the procedure for inserting intrauterine devices is explained in detail. Know what to expect from when you enter your doctor’s office to after you get home. Each step of the IUD insertion is explained.
Skip Period with NuvaRing
Learn how to skip your period using the NuvaRing. Women can have no more periods by using the contraceptive ring. Use the ring to skip periods or reduce symptoms through continuous birth control use. Skipping periods is safe and an easy way to avoid your monthly menstrual cycle.
Next Choice One Dose
Next Choice One Dose is the cheaper, generic equivalent to the morning-after pill, Plan B One-Step. Lower your chance of pregnancy if you take Next Choice One Dose within 72 hours of unprotected sex or contraception failure.
Combination Pills
Combination birth control pills have both estrogen and progestin. Learn all about the different brands of combination birth control pills, how they work, available pack sizes - everything you need to know!
Types of Combination Pills
There are three types of combination pills. Birth control pills can be monophasic, biphasic or triphasic. Learn about each type of phasic combination pill.
Depo Provera
Information about Depo Provera, the birth control shot. This progestin injection is a reversible method of prescription birth control. Find out the difference between the Depo Provera shot and its newer version, the Depo-subQ Provera 104 Injection. The side effects, advantages, health risks and effectiveness of Depo Provera are explained.
Nexplanon
Nexplanon is the newer version of the birth control implant, Implanon. It only contains progestin and provides three years of pregnancy protection. Nexplanon is now available in the United States.
Next Choice
Next Choice is generic Plan B and is also known as the morning after pill. The generic Plan B consists of two levonorgestrel pills. Use Next Choice up to 3 days after unprotected sex or contraception failure. This generic Plan B can be bought OTC by age 17 and older.
Switching to a New Pill
Are you thinking about switching to a new pill? If so, learn the steps that you need to take to change pills the correct way and avoid getting pregnant.
Spermicide Types
Spermicides are barrier birth control methods that are available over the counter. Once inserted, this contraceptive method kills sperm. Vaginal spermicides are available in several forms, like spermicidal jelly, cream, foam, tablets, suppositories, sponge and film. Spermicide is inserted into the vagina just before intercourse to prevent pregnancy.
Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo
Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo is a triphasic, lower hormone birth control pill designed to more naturally mimic your monthly cycle. Curious to learn more about Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo?
Lybrel
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the first birth control pill that is also designed to eliminate women's monthly periods. Lybrel is a type of continuous birth control where a woman takes a pill everyday for 365 days (a whole year). Learn more about Lybrel - what Lybrel is, its advantages, risks, costs, and effectiveness.
Hormonal Birth Control
Progestin is a common hormone found in combination birth control pills. What is it? Learn the differences between progestins as well as the various progestin types. Information about the estrogenic effects, androgenic effects, and progestational selectivity for each type of progestin is discussed.
Birth Control Over the Counter
One of the most common questions that people ask me is whether or not they can buy birth control pills over the counter.
Water Sex
Is sex under water safe? Some people may tend spice up their sex life while vacationing in romantic places. Having water sex requires planning since some birth control methods are not safe for water sex. Learn more about birth control and sex in the water, ocean, pool, or hot tub. Follow this guide to which condoms, lubrications, and contraceptives are safe for sex under water. Find out about water sex and infections, sexually transmitted diseases, and other health risks for sex under water.
Depo
Do you use Depo Provera to prevent pregnancy? Maybe you are considering whether to switch your current birth control method to the Depo Shot. Are you concerned about Depo side effects like spotting, weight gain or bone loss? Depo Provera and Depo-subQ Provera 104 protect against pregnancy for a period of 11-14 weeks. Depo also has FDA approval to treat endometriosis-related pain. Find out what real women, like you, are sharing about their experiences with Depo and join in the conversations.
Depo Shot and Weight Gain
Will the Depo Provera Shot Cause Weight Gain? DMPA, more commonly known as Depo Provera, is a reversible method of prescription birth control. Also known as the Depo Shot or birth control shot, find out is weight gain is a side effect of Depo.
Plan B
Since 2006, those 18 or older could buy Plan B over the counter at local pharmacies. Females under the age of 18 must obtain a prescription for Plan B from their doctor. As of September 2009, 17 year olds could now buy Plan B OTC without a prescription. But - the product is NOW called Plan B One-Step (there is no more Plan B). Why is there such confusion, and what is the status of this EC?
Using RU486
Learn how to use RU486 and what to expect after using the abortion pill. This FDA-approved medical abortion is a safe way to have a non-surgical abortion. RU486 (Mifeprex) can effectively terminate an early pregnancy. Information on how to use the abortion pill and how to obtain a medical abortion with RU486.
RU486
Learn factual information about RU486, the abortion pill. This FDA-approved medical abortion pill is a safe way to have a nonsurgical abortion. RU486 (Mifeprex) can effectively terminate an early pregnancy.
Condom Sizes
Do condom sizes really matter? You bet they do! Learn why it's important to have the right size condom and how to find the best condom match for you.
Condom Failure
If you want your condoms to work, you need to know how to properly use condoms. Let’s face it, condoms break. Around 2-5% of all condoms tear during condom use. Find out about how to prevent condom failure and use condoms the correct way.
Medications
Certain medications, antibiotics, and herbal supplements can decrease the effectiveness of The Pill. Discover what drug and medicine interactions lower ths pill's effectiveness, so you increase your chances of success while using oral contraceptives. Learn about medications, antibiotics, St. John's Wort and many more inhibitors that can cause drug interactions with birth control pills.
Unplanned Pregnancy Guide
Am I pregnant? Did my birth control fail? Many women may be thinking this if their period is late. Not sure what to do? If you are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy, you are not alone.
Sponge
Everything you need to know about the Today Sponge. And yes... this over-the-counter birth control method is available again!
Progestin-Only
A definition and description of progestin-only pills. Some birth control pills only contain progestin. Progestin-only pills are a good alternative for women who are breastfeeding or who cannot take combination birth control pills that contain estrogen. Find out more about progestin-only pills.
Silicone-based lubricants
A silicone lubricant is safe to use with condoms. Because they are water-soluble, silicone lubrications (or siicone lube) will not dry up like water based lubricants. This type of personal lubricant can also be used for water sex. Learn more about this type of lubricant as well as some silicone-based lubricants to try.
Pool and Hot Tub Sex
I heard somewhere that the chemicals in hot tubs kill sperm or lower sperm count, so it is unlikely you can get pregnant having sex in one. Do you need a condom for pool sex? Do they work? Better yet –- if having hot tub sex, do I even need to worry about protection?
Available Contraception
There are so birth control methods for you to choose from. Are you aware of all of your birth control options? Which birth control methods do you want to learn more about? All types of birth control awaits you – from natural family planning, to over-the-counter methods, to prescription birth control (including hormonal contraceptives) to sterilization - permanent birth control methods. Find out about your birth control options.
Yaz
Yaz is a birth control pill that is also FDA-approved to help treat PMDD and moderate acne. Find out more about Yaz side effects, Yaz costs, how to buy Yaz as well as where to get a Yaz coupon.
Tubal Ligation
Tubal ligation (also known as having one's tubes tied) is a permanent form of female sterilization. This is a surgical procedure that closes off a woman's fallopian tubes. Learn more about tubal ligation, what to expect, risks, and costs. Discussion about tubal reversal as a choice if a woman regrets this decision.
Putting on a Condom with Mouth
Condoms are simple to use whether you are in a new relationship (and want to impress your partner) or want to spice up your sex life. Either way, this skill is sure to arouse. Learning how to put on a condom with your mouth can be a little tricky, but it can make for a sexy surprise for your partner. Plus, this puts a pleasurable spin on safe sex, so with step-by-step instructions, here's the answer on how to put a condom on with your mouth.
Fertility Chart
If your iPhone has become an essential part of your life, so why not use it to assist in Natural Family Planning? Some great fertility chart iPhone apps have been developed and could be worth your taking a closer look at.
Essure Tubal Ligation
Discover some of the risks associated with the Essure permanent birth control procedure.
NuvaRing
What is NuvaRing? Wondering about NuvaRing side effects, advantages, effectiveness and cost? Find out what you need to know about this birth control method.
What Condoms Are Made Of
Have you ever stopped to wonder what condoms are made of? It seems like many condom manufacturers don’t come right out and tell you this. Find out what is in your favorite condoms.
Double bagging
Does using two condoms provide better pregnancy protection than just using one? Double bagging condoms may seem like a good idea but condom use should be limited to using one condom at a time. What about the use of male condoms and female condoms?
Diaphragms
What is a diaphragm? A rubber diaphragm is a barrier method of women’s birth control. Learn about diaphragm use as well as pros, cons, costs, and how to obtain diaphragms. Diaphragm effectiveness is also discussed.
Ortho Evra Patch
The Ortho Evra Patch is as effective as the pill but even simpler. Answers to your questions about the Ortho Evra once-a-week birth control patch.
Methods of Abortion
An abortion is a procedure where a woman chooses to end her pregnancy. There are both medical and surgical methods of abortion. What stage you are in a pregnancy determines which methods of abortion are used. Learn about available methods of abortion.
Vasectomy and Sex Drive
Many men put off having a vasectomy over fears of a link between a vasectomy and sex drive. The good news? There is no connection between vasectomy and lower sex drive or decreased masculinity. Find out why.
Astroglide
Guide Review of Astroglide Personal Lubricant: Astroglide continues to be one of the best selling personal lubricants on the market. It is a water based lubricant that also acts as a moisturizer for vaginal dryness. There are also many formulations to choose from!
Lambskin Condoms
Lambskin condoms (also known as natural condoms) are made of a natural membrane, so they are a good alternative for people who are allergic to latex condoms. This is the oldest condom type tends to more natural and expensive than latex condoms. Naturalamb condom use is only effective in preventing pregnancy not STDs.
Ethinyl Estradiol
Ethinyl estradiol is a synthentic estrogen. It is often safely used along with a progestin in many hormonal contraceptives. Do you know what ethinyl estradiol is? How it works? Or which birth control it is in? If not, come find out!
Seasonique
Seasonique is an extended cycle birth control pill that is used to prevent pregnancy. Women will have fewer periods with Seasonique – only 4 periods a year. Is this pill safe?
Respond to Men's Excuses
It is not uncommon for women to hear all types of men not wanting to wear a condom excuses. If you find youself wondering how to respond to men's excuses for not wanting to wear a condom, here are some of the more popular condom excuses that men give. Learn possible ways how to reply to their objections!
IUD
An IUD is a small, flexible contraceptive device that is shaped like the letter T and is inserted into the uterus. The letters IUD stand for intrauterine device. This contraceptive method is long lasting, safe and extremely effective. There are two IUD types: the Mirena IUD and the ParaGard IUD. Learn about IUD insertion and IUD removal as well as costs, maintenance and pregnancy protection.
Withdrawal Bleeding
Definition of withdrawal bleeding. Is withdrawal bleeding the same as menstrual periods? During withdrawal bleeding, there is no period. Find out why this is also known as a fake period.
Condoms
How much do you know about male condoms? Find out about condom use, types of condoms, condom brands, and where to buy condoms.
teen sex
Thinking about having sex may be stressful and scary for many teens because it may mean having to think about how to prevent an unintended pregnancy. You may already know about birth control, or you many not have a clue about your contraceptive options. There is also so much available teen sex information that it may be hard to know where to begin and who to turn to. Here is some teen sex advice on how to begin learning about birth control.
Decide About Condom Use
: How Do I Decide About Condom Use? Male condoms come in many shapes, styles, lengths, widths and strengths
Contraception After Age 40
If you are a woman age 40 or older, then listen up! It seems that your available birth control options just expanded - no longer will your choices be limited to having your tubes tied or relying on permanent birth control. Research shows that hormonal contraception after age 40 or for older moms may now be an option. For older women contraception options have been broadened, so sex after age 40 can sizzle. Learn how increased estrogen birth control options may lead to carefree sexual encounters.
Plan B One Step
Plan B One-Step is a new form of emergency contraception approved by the FDA on July 13, 2009. Plan B One-Step consists of just one oral pill (levonorgestrel tablet, 1.5 mg) and can be used by women to prevent an unintended pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. Plan B One-Step will be replacing the old Plan B.
Progestin-Only Methods
Some women may wish to use hormonal birth control but may not be able to choose a method due to estrogen intolerance. Progestin birth control options may be a great hormonal alternative as progestin only birth control methods tend to be safer for certain women.
Taking the Pill
Do you know when to take the Pill? When using combination birth control pills, not only is it important to be taking the Pill at the same time each day, but you must also consider travel plans and Daylight Saving time changes into account. Learn when to take the Pill when you are in different time zones.
IUDs
When deciding between birth control methods or talking about contraceptive options, it could be helpful to familiarize yourself with what the contraceptive looks like. By familiarizing yourself with, at least the look (and even the feel) of the contraceptive, it may be easier to choose a method that you feel comfortable with or overcome some of the embarrassment about discussing your options. See what IUDs, like the Mirena IUD and ParaGard IUD look like.
Implantation
When does pregnancy officially start? Hmm... at conception? Maybe at implantation? Or somewhere in between? Come find out!
The Pill
Learn all about birth control pills as a hormonal birth control. Find out the difference between combination birth control pills and progestin-only pills. Get information about types of birth control pills, advantages, disadvantages, reliability, cost, and all the side effects of birth control pills.
SKYN
Lifestyles SKYN condoms are the only available brand of non latex condoms. Polyisoprene condoms (made of natural rubber) were FDA approved in 2008 for the prevention of pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. This condom type tends to softer and more form fitting than polyurethane condoms. SKYN condom use is gaining popularity and receiving rave reviews from former latex condom users.
Skip Period with Patch
Learn how to skip your period using the Ortho Evra Patch. Women can have no more periods by using the contraceptive patch. Use the patch to skip periods or reduce symptoms through continuous birth control use. Skipping periods is safe and an easy way to avoid your monthly menstrual cycle.
Effectiveness of Contraception
When deciding on a contraceptive method, certain birth control considerations may come into play. The effectiveness of contraception may or may not be an important consideration. Evaluating the effectiveness of contraception may be an important birth control consideration or factor when making trying to decide upon which birth control method to choose.
Factors to Consider
Are you looking for effective birth control? With so many birth control methods available and somany factors to consider, choosing birth control methods can be difficult. People choose to use birth control for many different reasons. The following are factors and questions to consider when choosing birth control methods for you.
Emergency Contraception
Emergency contraception (EC) can be used to reduce the risk of pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. Emergency contraception has been available for more than 30 years and is safe and effective. Learn about Plan B One-Step (morning after pill), progestin-only pills (Ovrette), and the Paragard IUD. Emergency contraception and Plan B One-Step effectiveness is discussed as well as how EC works, emergency birth control side effects and cost.
natural methods
Natural birth control includes specific actions that people can naturally do to help prevent an unintended pregnancy. Natural contraception often does not cost anything and usually has no side effects. Learn more about natural birth control methods.
triggeringovulation
Learn all the details about how hormones work together, every month, in the female body to cause ovulation. From the hypothalamus in the brain producing GnRH (gonadotropinreleasing hormone) to the release the FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) to the surge of LH (luteinizing hormone) from the pituitary gland – a complete explanation of how hormones work together to cause ovulation.
How Plan B Works
There is still great disagreement about how Plan B works. Whereas research and the medical community say one thing, FDA labeling on how Plan B works says another. What are the effects of Plan B and where did the controversy over how emergency contraception works stem from?
How the Pill Works
The pill is arguably the most popular of all hormonal methods. This may make you wonder just how the pill works to prevent pregnancy. Why is the pill and hormonal contraception so effective?
Combination Pill Use
Combination birth control pills are oral contraceptives that combine estrogens and progestins, similar to the natural sex hormones produced in a woman's body. Find out how to use combination birth control pills. Instructions for starting the pill as well as what to do if you forget to take a pill are also included.
Adiana
Although the Adiana permanent birth control method was FDA-approved on July 8, 2009 as a less-invasive alternative to tubal ligation, the Hologic company has discontinued its production and sales of the Adiana system as of April 2012.
NuvaRing Falls Out
What should I do if NuvaRing falls out? Is it safe to have sex if the contraceptive ring falls out? Learn what to do if your NuvaRing falls out. Find out what you can do to prevent pregnancy and increase the effectiveness of the NuvaRing.
PMDD Treatment
Hormonal contraception like the birth control pill and extended-cycle pills may offer some PMS relief as well as diminish PMDD symptoms, enough to be considered part of a PMDD treatment plan.
Female Condoms
Information about the female condom as a method of contraception is presented, as well reliability, costs, things to be aware of, and where to obtain. All about the female condom: how to use it, what are the benefits and disadvantages, female condom & prevention of pregnancy, reuse of female condom.
Latex Condoms
Latex condoms are by far the most widely available and least expensive of all the condom types. They are made with latex, a kind of rubber. Latex condom use is effective in preventing both pregnancy and STDs (including HIV). This makes latex condoms (commonly called rubbers) the most common condom type.
Irregular Period
Many women suffer from an irregular period. Some women become anxious over having a long menstrual cycle, while others are concerned about not knowing when their period will start. Combination hormonal contraceptives, like the Pill, can provide the benefit of helping you regulate your monthly cycle or skip periods altogether.
Over the Counter Birth Control
Over the counter birth control are barrier methods that obstruct sperm from reaching an egg and can be obtained without a doctors prescription. Learn about the most common OTC birth control methods. Over the counter birth control options are presented as well as descriptions of each method. Find out amore about condoms, female condoms, the Today Sponge, spermicide and Plan B (morning after pill).
Pregnancy Tests
There are many different types and brands of home pregnancy tests, but they all function in the same manner - 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.
Birth Control Failure
Find out the main reason for birth control failure. Birth control fails for many reasons. Learn the top action that contributes to contraceptive failure.
Depo Provera Black Box Warning
Information about the Depo Provera black box warning. Also known as the birth control shot, Depo Provera and Depo-subQ Provera 104 Injection are reversible methods of prescription birth control method. Learn important safety information about the Depo Provera shot, and its effect on bone density, bone loss, and possible osteoporosis.
Withdrawal
What you need to know about the withdrawal method of contraception (also known as pulling out). Are there more advantages or disadvantages of relying on withdrawal?
No Scalpel Vasectomy
A no scalpel vasectomy (or keyhole vasectomy) is a more appealing and less invasive vasectomy option for men. With quicker recover times, less pain and no incision, see how a no scalpel vasectomy differs from conventional vasectomies.
progestinonly
Progestin-only contraceptives may be a good alternative for women who cannot tolerate estrogen-based birth control. methods. Yet, progestin only birth control side effects may be common. Find out what these may be.
Acne
Hormonal contraception like the combination birth control pill may help treat acne. Acne can be caused by high levels of androgens. Given that hormonal contraception can reduce the levels of free androgen, certain birth control has been shown to be a helpful acne treatment.
How The Pill Works
Birth control pills, also known as oral contraceptives, have the main goal each month of preventing your reproductive system from releasing an egg. The progestin and/or estrogen found in birth control pills (and other hormone birth control) work to help prevent a pregnancy from occurring. Learn how these hormones work together to prevent ovulation.
Condom Quiz
Condom Quiz Take Our Quiz To Find Out How Much You Know About Condoms and Test Your Condom Sense Sorry,
LAM
Can I get pregnant while breastfeeding? Learn how breastfeeding (Lactational Amenorrhea Method or LAM)can be an effective natural contraceptive for woman who have given birth less than six months ago.
VCF
Vaginal contraceptive film (VCF) is a hormone-free, 2X2-inch thin sheet of film. VCF contains the spermicide Nonoxynol-9 that kills sperm on contact.
Birth Control Quiz
Birth Control Quiz Take Our Quiz To Find Out How Much You Know About Some of the Available Birth Control
Beyaz
Beyaz is a birth control pill that provides daily supplementation of folate (folic acid). It may lower the risk of having rare neural tube defects in a pregnancy occurring during Beyaz use or shortly after stopping. Beyaz is also FDA-approved to help treat PMDD and moderate acne. Find out more about Beyaz side effects, how to buy Beyaz as well as where to get a Beyaz coupon.
Abstinence
What is abstinence? Learn what behaviors count as being abstinent and what abstinence means.
Dental Dams
Dental dams are a barrier method that can protect against HIV and other sexually STDs during oral sex (cunnilingus) and oral-anal sex (rimming or anilingus). Dental dams are usually made from latex and consist of a small square or rectangle of material. Sometimes, dental dams can be hard to find and can be somewhat expensive. The good news though, is that you can easily make dental dams at home with a condom and a pair of scissors.
Prescription Birth Control
Information about the most common forms of prescription birth control. Defintion of prescription contraception as well as descriptions of each perscription birth control method falling under this category, such as the pill, the Ortho Evra Patch, Depo Provera, Mirena, NuvaRing plus many more.
Permanent Contraception
Permanent birth control consists of two main categories: vasectomy and tubal ligation (surgical and non-surgical). Permanent birth control is meant to last through your reproductive years, so you want to be sure of you choice to undergo permanent sterilization. Want to learn more?
IUD and PID
Learn more about the relationship-if any-between IUD use and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
IUD Use in Nulliparous Women
For years, nulliparous women have been using IUDs like Mirena and ParaGard. Is this safe? Learn what ACOG and research suggest about IUD use in nulliparous women.
effectiveness
A comparison of birth control effectiveness... find out the effectiveness of all birth control methods.
Polyurethane Condoms
Polyurethane condoms are made of a type of plastic, so they are a good alternative for people who are allergic to latex condoms. This condom type tends to be thinner and less flexible than latex condoms. Polyurethane condom use is effective in preventing both pregnancy and STDs (including HIV).
IUD Removed
The IUD contraceptive is a small, T-shaped plastic device that is inserted into the uterus. The Mirena IUD continuously releases progestin and is effective for 5 years. The ParaGard IUD (also known as Copper IUD) is the only non-medicated IUD available in the US and can be left in place for up to 10 years. A great hurdle facing IUD use is that many people don’t have all the facts. Some women believe that they should have their Mirena IUD or Paragard IUD removed if they switch sexual partners.
Birth Control Pills
When deciding between birth control methods or talking about contraceptive options, it could be helpful to familiarize yourself with what the contraceptive looks like. By familiarizing yourself with, at least the look (and even the feel) of the contraceptive, it may be easier to choose a method that you feel comfortable with or overcome some of the embarrassment about discussing your options. See what birth control pills, the Mirena IUD and other prescription birth control methods look like.
Use Female Condom
The female condom is placed in the vagina before sex. It’s a thin, pre-lubricated pouch. The female condom collects sperm before, during and after ejaculation. Using the female condom may be a little bit intimidating. But, once you become familiar with it, female condom use can be easy. Always read the instructions enclosed (in the box) and try to practice inserting the female condom a few times before having sex. Learn more tips on how to use the female condom.
Mini Laparotomy
Mini laparotomy is one of the two most common methods of tubal ligation. A laparoscope is not used during a mini laparotomy. During this tubal ligation procedure, a small incision is made. The surgeon then pulls the fallopian tubes up into or out of the incision, closes them off with a device that ties and cuts them (or seals them shut) and puts the tubes back into place.
Femcon Fe
Looking for a birth control pill that's convenient and tasty? The Femcon Fe combination birth control pill is highly effective and safe. Information about the chewable birth control pill as a method of contraception is presented as well as some of the advantages, disadvantages, reliability, effectiveness, cost, and risks. Everything you need to know about the convenience of this tiny, spearmint-flavored chewable Femcon Fe pill.
Pill Prevents the Egg
Hormonal birth control either supplies a steady level of both progestin and estrogen every day or just progestin. It is this continuous release of hormones that prevents your egg from being released on your ovulation day. Due to keeping your reproductive cycle in the same phase, hormonal birth control suppresses the two key hormones that are involved in your ovulation day. So, ovulation doesn't occur because a mature egg is not produced.
Reasons for Abortion
Shedding light on women’s reasons for seeking abortions can help can inform public opinion and correct misperceptions. Understanding the complexity of this decision and the reasons why a woman chooses to exercise this choice may open the doorway for compassion and understanding for women faced in this painful situation. Find out the most common answers women provide as reasons for abortion.
Hirsutism
Hirsutism (male-pattern hair growth) can occur in women who have abnormally high levels of androgens. Given that hormonal contraception can reduce the levels of free androgen, certain combination birth control pills have been shown to be a helpful hirsutism treatment.
Spermicide
Spermicide is an over-the-counter, contraceptive method that immobilizes sperm. Vaginal spermicides are available in several forms: Spermicidal jelly, cream, foam, tablets, suppositories, and film. Each type of spermicide melts after being inserted and forms a barrier that blocks the entrance to the uterus.
Benefits of Birth Control
More than 80% of U.S. women will use hormonal contraception sometime during their reproductive years, yet many women are unaware of the noncontraceptive benefits of using this type of birth control. Besides offering protection against pregnancy, learn about some noncontraceptive benefits of birth control. Combination birth control pills, Mirena, Depo Provera, NuvaRing, Ortho Evra Patch and Implanon can offer some helpful advantages – find out more about the benefits of birth control.
Birth Control Storage
Proper (or improper) storage can impact how well your birth control works. Condoms can be stored in condom cases or condom cubes in a cool, dry and dark place (away from humidity, heat, air, and sunlight). Birth control pills also need to be properly stored. Birth control compacts or discreet pill cases can keep oral contraceptives away from light, moisture and children. Here are some tips for safely storing birth control.
Overweight Women
Obese or overweight women may not realize that their weight may be making their birth control method less effective. Find out which are the most effective birth control methods for overweight women.
Uses
The purposes of birth control and reasons why people may choose to use contraception.
Aspiration Procedure
The manual vacuum aspiration is an available abortion option to end an early pregnancy. The manual aspiration procedure only takes a few minutes, has a quick recovery and a very high success rate. Learn more about this early abortion option.
Combo Pills
Explanation of the common side effects and potential health complications of combination birth control (birth control that contains both estrogen and progestin). These methods include the pill, NuvaRing and Ortho Evra Patch
Essure Decision
Deciding to seek permanent birth control is a major decision. Women can choose between a tubal ligation, surgery that closes off the fallopian tubes (having your tubes tied) or Essure, a non-surgical permanent birth control procedure. If you’ve already decided that permanent sterilization is the way to go, see if the Essure procedure may be the right choice for you.
Birth Control Travel Tips
Birth control travel tips - follow this contraception vacation advice to ensure that birth control (or lack of it) does not ruin your travel plans.
Contraception
What is contraception? What types of devices, sexual practices, chemicals, drugs, or surgical procedures count as contraception. Contraception defined.
IUD Birth Control for Teenagers
Is IUD birth control for teenagers safe? Should teenagers use Implanon?
Noristerat Injection
The Noristerat injection is a reversible method of prescription birth control method. It is not available in the United States but is common in the United Kingdom, Europe, Africa, and Central America. This contraceptive injection contains the synthetic progestin hormone norethisterone enantate and provides 8 weeks of pregnancy protection.

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