Pregnancy Prevention
7
PURPOSE
The knowledge of how a pregnancy happens can help debunk myths, clarify
uncertainties and empower young people to make healthy decisions. Understanding
how birth control methods work and where to access services gives young people
the knowledge, skills and tools they need to avoid unintended pregnancy, whether
they are sexually active now or not until sometime in the future.
STUDENT LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Participants will:
1. Explain the process of how a pregnancy happens.
2. Identify available birth control methods, including abstinence: how they
work, their effectiveness and their advantages and disadvantages.
3. Identify valid web resources and locations where one can obtain sexual
health information and services.
LESSON SUMMARY
Activities
A What Do You Think?
Minutes Materials and Preparation Checklist
10
¨ Review and choose a polling activity method
B
How a 15
¨ Set up projector if using the How a Pregnancy
Pregnancy Happens graphics available at
Happens Review
www.mainefamilyplanning.org/bestpractices
and review the scipt.
¨ Copy the How a Pregnancy Happens handout, one for each student.
¨ Copy and cut the How a Pregnancy Happens Cards
(make multiple sets for small groups).
C Birth Control 30
¨ Review the Keep It Simple motion graphic
Methods found on www.maineteenhealth.org.
¨ Copy the Keep It Simple Quiz for each student.
¨ Copy Birth Control Methods Definition Cards.
¨ Copy the Birth Control Methods Worksheet for each student.
¨ Optional: Birth Control Methods Kit
D
¨ Journal or notecards
Assessment and Closure
5
Lesson 7 – Pregnancy Prevention
L
E
S
S
O
N
153
INTRODUCE THE LESSON
Ask,
What are two effective ways to prevent STDs and pregnancy? (abstinence and condoms)
We have talked about what we need to make abstinence work and how condoms can prevent both
STDs and pregnancy. Today we’re going to look at additional ways to prevent pregnancy. Other than not
having sex, using both condoms and a hormonal method is the most effective way to prevent pregnancy
and STDs at the same time.
FACILITATOR NOTE
Activity 7A can be done either as a Polling or Forced Choice activity.
Polling activity: You can have students give a thumbs up (Agree), or thumbs down (Disagree) after
each statement you read. Or you can use one of many online polling sites that allow students to
agree or disagree electronically. The online version allows students to remain anonymous, while
the thumbs up/thumbs down is a more public disclosure of student responses. There are benefits
to both techniques and each can allow for rich discussion. There are several online polling sites you
can use in your classroom, including free versions on www.socrative.com, www.getkahoot.com/ and
Google+.
Forced Choice: This option is great if you want your students to get up and move around the room.
Write or post AGREE and DISAGREE signs on two sides of the room, allowing space for students to
walk to and stand next to their respective answer.
The essential learning of this activity is the discussion, not coming to consensus on a right or wrong
answer.
154 Lesson 7 – Pregnancy Prevention
ACTIVITY 7A: WHAT DO YOU THINK? 10
Say,
Before we start, we’re going to take a short poll about your thoughts on birth control.
Procedure for both polling and forced choice:
1. Read the following statements and ask students to either AGREE or DISAGREE. If they
feel “in between” tell them they should go with their gut and choose one or the other.
2. Ask for volunteers to briefly share why they chose their response.
3. Reinforce the positive messages listed under each statement below.
FORCED CHOICE AND POLLING STATEMENTS
1. Males should be responsible for condoms and females should be responsible for getting a hormonal
method (like the pill). Do you agree or disagree?
Ideally, both males and females should learn about the different methods so that a couple can talk
through which method is best for them.
2. Birth control methods are affordable and easy to access. Do you agree or disagree?
There may be challenges to getting birth control methods, like lack of transportation, no clinic or
health center nearby and the perception that birth control is too expensive.
3. People who identify as gay or lesbian don’t need to learn about birth control.
Do you agree or disagree?
Sometimes people may have sex with both male and female partners regardless of how they
identify. In fact, teens identifying as LGBTQ have higher rates of teen pregnancy (12-17%) than
their peers who identify as straight (2-5%). They may not think of pregnancy as a risk. Or they
could be having sex with opposite gender partners to avoid the stigma of being labeled as gay or
to experiment in finding their own true sexuality.
SUMMARIZE
In summarizing the activity, include these key points:
• Everyone is responsible for their own health, so girls could carry condoms and guys could help
support a female partner using a hormonal method.
• Ideally both partners are involved in making the decision on how to protect against STDs and
unintended pregnancy.
• Pregnancy can happen to anyone who has unprotected vaginal sex. Whether you are gay or lesbian,
female or male, having sex now or not, everyone could benefit from learning about preventing
pregnancy.
Lesson 7 – Pregnancy Prevention
155
ACTIVITY 7B: HOW A PREGNANCY HAPPENS REVIEW 15
Say,
Before we learn about the many birth control methods, it’s important that everyone has the same basic
knowledge of how a pregnancy happens.
• Pass out a copy of the How a Pregnancy Happens Handout to each student.
• Explain how a pregnancy happens by using one of the following options:
Option 1: Use the How a Pregnancy Happens Graphics while reading the script aloud. You can
access the graphic by visiting www.mainefamilyplanning.org/bestpractices.
Option 2: From the How a Pregnancy Happens Handout, ask for volunteers to read the descriptions
of ovulation, fertilization and implantation.
• After completing one of the two options above, ask the students to get into small groups.
• Give each group a set of How a Pregnancy Happens cards.
• Have each group put the cards in the order of how a pregnancy happens. Keep in mind that the
ovulation card can occur before or after ejaculation.
• Alternatively, have the whole class arrange one set of cards. Give them a few minutes to work and
then review the correct order as a large group.
• Use the How a Pregnancy Happens Facilitator Key to check the proper order, provide additional
information and answer questions.
156 Lesson 7 – Pregnancy Prevention
HANDOUT
HOW A PREGNANCY HAPPENS
Female Reproductive System
Fallopian Tubes
Ovary
Uterus
Ovary
The female reproductive organs include
the ovaries which contain eggs, the
fallopian tubes and the uterus which is
where a pregnancy can develop.
Cervix
Vagina
Ovulation: Each month, an egg is released
from one of the ovaries. It travels
through the fallopian tube and into
the uterus. This is called ovulation. If
the egg is not fertilized by a sperm, it
simply dissolves and leaves the body
with the menstrual blood also known
as a period. If the egg is fertilized by a
sperm, a pregnancy can happen.
Ejaculation: When a male ejaculates
inside or around the vagina, millions
of sperm swim up the vagina through
the cervix, the uterus and into the
fallopian tubes where they may find
an egg if ovulation has occurred.
Sperm can live for 3- 5 days inside
the female body, so the female can
become pregnant even if she ovulates
after unprotected vaginal sex.
Lesson 7 – Pregnancy Prevention
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HANDOUT
HOW A PREGNANCY HAPPENS
Fertilization: Usually one sperm, though sometimes
more, joins with and fertilizes the egg.
Cell Division: The fertilized egg, now called a zygote,
divides into many cells and travels down the
fallopian tube to the uterus. During this time,
the zygote becomes a ball of cells.
Implantation: After 3 or 4 days, the fertilized egg
attaches to the lining of the uterus. This is called
implantation and is the point when a pregnancy
begins.
158 If all of this happens successfully, the female
will not get her period. This “missed” or “late”
period is one of the signs of early pregnancy.
Lesson 7 – Pregnancy Prevention
How a Pregnancy Happens Cards
Ejaculation: The male ejaculates
semen in or around the vagina.
Sperm swims up through the
cervix, the uterus and into the
fallopian tube.
Ovulation: One ovary releases an
egg into the fallopian tube
Egg
Lesson 7 – Pregnancy Prevention
159
How a Pregnancy Happens Cards
Fertilization: One sperm
fertilizes the egg.
Cell Division: The fertilized egg,
now called a zygote, divides
into many cells & travels to the
uterus.
Implantation: After a few days,
the fertilized egg implants in the
uterine lining. The pregnancy has
begun.
160 Lesson 7 – Pregnancy Prevention
FACILITATOR KEY
HOW A PREGNANCY HAPPENS
Instructions: Use this Facilitator Key along with the How a Pregnancy Happens Cards to ensure the proper
order and to provide additional information.
1. Ejaculation. The male ejaculates semen in or around the vagina. Sperm swims up through the
cervix, the uterus and into the fallopian tube.
It’s worth stating that a female can become pregnant if a male ejaculates around the opening of
the vagina—sperm can still make it to the fallopian tubes.
**Interesting fact: This diagram shows the sperm going in one direction. How do they know where
to go? Scientists believe sperm cells find a waiting egg cell because they swim toward higher
concentrations of molecules released by the egg and toward the high-temperature areas of the
woman’s reproductive tract. Only a few hundred will make it close to the egg, and usually only one
will actually join with the egg. The rest of the sperm will dissolve.
2. Ovulation: One ovary releases an egg into the fallopian tube.
(This card can also come before ejaculation).
Sperm can live for 3- 5 days inside the female body, so a pregnancy can happen even if ovulation
takes place after unprotected vaginal sex. The egg can only be fertilized for about 24 hours after it
is released from the ovary.
3. Fertilization: One sperm fertilizes the egg
The combined sperm and egg is called a zygote. The zygote contains all of the genetic information
(DNA) needed to become a baby. Half the DNA comes from the egg and the other half from the
sperm.
Sometimes fraternal twins form when there are two (or more) eggs released. Each one is fertilized
by a separate sperm. Genetically, fraternal twins are no more alike than siblings. Identical twins
start off as one fertilized egg.
4. Cell Division: The fertilized egg, now called a zygote, divides into many cells and travels to the
uterus.
The fertilized egg, now called a zygote, spends a few days traveling down the fallopian tube. During
this time, it divides to form a ball of cells.
5. Implantation: After a few days, the fertilized egg implants in the uterine lining. The pregnancy has
begun.
If all of the previous steps happen successfully, the female will not get her period. This “missed” or
“late” period is one of the signs of early pregnancy.
Lesson 7 – Pregnancy Prevention
161
ACTIVITY 7C: BIRTH CONTROL METHODS KEEP IT SIMPLE
30
10
• Introduce the 4-minute Keep it Simple motion graphic by saying:
Many teens are waiting to have sex. Even so, it is still helpful to have information about safer
sex and birth control for a future time when they may be sexually active. We have talked about
the importance of abstinence. Now we’ll watch a video that introduces a variety of other ways
someone can protect themself from STDs and pregnancy. This video also describes clinical services
that are available at family planning clinics.
• Stream Keep It Simple from www.maineteenhealth.org/resources/videos/.
• Pass out the Keep It Simple Quiz to each student. They can fill in the answers either individually or in small groups after watching the video. You may also use the quiz as a way to assess their current knowledge if you do not show the motion graphic.
• After completing the quiz, have students read the questions and share their answers aloud in the
large group. Use the Keep It Simple Quiz Facilitator Key as a guide.
162 Lesson 7 – Pregnancy Prevention
KEEP IT SIMPLE QUIZ
1. Circle all of the hormonal methods and underline the barrier methods
pills
male condom
patch
vaginal ring
depo-provera shot
implant
IUD
EC (emergency contraception)
female condom
dental dam
2. What are some factors you need to consider in picking a birth control method?
Answer True or False:
3. Other than abstinence (not having sex), using both condoms and a hormonal
method is an effective way to prevent both pregnancy and STDs.
T or F
4. A teen can start a birth control method or be tested for STDs for low or no cost.
T or F
5. You must have a parent’s permission to go to a family planning clinic.
T or F
6. Females can start most birth control methods (except the IUD) without taking off
clothes.
T or F
7. The test for chlamydia and gonorrhea is usually a simple urine test (pee in a cup).
T or F
8. Emergency Contraception (brand name Plan B) can be obtained at a family
planning clinic or pharmacy by someone of any age or gender without a
prescription.
T or F
Lesson 7 – Pregnancy Prevention
163
FACILITATOR KEY
KEEP IT SIMPLE QUIZ
1. Circle all of the hormonal methods and underline the barrier methods
pills
male condom
patch
vaginal ring
depo-provera shot
implant
IUD
EC (emergency contraception)
female condom
dental dam
2. What are some factors you need to consider in picking a birth control method?
Possible answers:
• Cost
• Where you can get it
• How easy is it to use or how often do you need to remember to take it/use it
• How private is it
• Are there any side effects
• Religion or cultural factors
• Cooperation with your partner
Answer True or False:
3. Other than abstinence (not having sex), using both condoms and a hormonal
method is an effective way to prevent both pregnancy and STDs.
T or F
4. A teen can start a birth control method or be tested for STDs for low or no cost.
T or F
5. You must have a parent’s permission to go to a family planning clinic.
T or F
6. Females can start most birth control methods (except the IUD) without taking off
clothes.
T or F
7. The test for chlamydia and gonorrhea is usually a simple urine test (pee in a cup).
T or F
8. Emergency Contraception (brand name Plan B) can be obtained at a family
planning clinic or pharmacy by someone of any age or gender without a
prescription.
T or F
164 Lesson 7 – Pregnancy Prevention
BIRTH CONTROL METHOD FACTS
20
Say,
Birth control can be put into different categories—1) those that use Hormones, 2) those that depend on
specific Behaviors and 3) those that act as a Barrier.
• Ask for three volunteers to read the Birth Control Methods Definition Cards aloud. After reading,
thank the volunteers and have them return the cards.
• Pass out a Birth Control Methods Worksheet to each student.
• Have students form small groups. Give each group a method to research. If you have a kit, give the
group the corresponding method sample. They can use one of the following resources to gather
information about their method:
www.maineteenhealth.org/birth-control/
stayteen.org/sex-ed/birth-control-explorer
www.arhp.org/methodmatch/
• Students can create a poster or a magazine or video advertisement that includes the
information listed in the Birth Control Methods Worksheet. This can also be assigned as
homework.
• Have each group present their method. As each method is presented, ask the remaining students
to complete their Birth Control Methods Worksheet.
• Optional: If time and transportation allow, set up an on-site family planning clinic tour. You can
also have students find the family planning clinic nearest them using Find a Clinic on the
www.maineteenhealth.org website. To find out about scheduling a clinic tour, email
[email protected]
FACILITATOR NOTE
The birth control methods covered in this activity include abstinence and withdrawal—two behavioral
methods used by teens. Studies show withdrawal is more effective than doing nothing to prevent
pregnancy. It is also a method commonly used by teens, so it is worthwhile for teens to compare
withdrawal to other, more effective methods.
Fertility awareness is not included and is not recommended for teens. It is a method best used by
someone ready to deal with a possible pregnancy.
Lesson 7 – Pregnancy Prevention
165
DEBRIEF THE ACTIVITY
Once all of the methods are presented, debrief with the following questions:
1. What are the similarities among the methods? What are the differences?
Possible answers:
Similarities:
• Hormonal methods work pretty much in the same way by preventing ovulation.
• Teens can get all of the methods at low cost and confidentially.
• Most methods are used by females but both partners can work together to get and use any of
the methods.
Differences:
• Barrier methods prevent STDs and pregnancy
• Hormonal methods prevent pregnancy, but not STDs
• Some you can get without a prescription
• For others you need to see a health care provider or go to family planning.
2. What is the best way for someone to protect themselves from both pregnancy and STDs?
Possible answers:
• Abstinence
• Dual use of a birth control method and condoms
3. Where can you go to get birth control information and services?
Possible answers:
• Family Planning clinic
• Doctor’s office
• School nurse or school based health center (in some schools)
• Condoms: drug store or grocery store
166 Lesson 7 – Pregnancy Prevention
Birth Control Methods Definition Cards
Hormonal Methods
work by preventing
ovulation (the release of
an egg from the ovaries)
Barrier Methods
work by keeping
the sperm from
reaching the egg
Lesson 7 – Pregnancy Prevention
167
Birth Control Methods Definition Cards
Behavioral Methods
work by choosing
actions that reduce
the risk of pregnancy
168 Lesson 7 – Pregnancy Prevention
ACTIVITY 7D: ASSESSMENT AND CLOSURE
5
ASSESSMENT
To assess learning, ask students to write their answers to the following questions on a note card:
1. What is one thing you learned today about birth control?
2. What do you think is the best way for you to prevent both pregnancy and STDs?
CLOSURE
In closing the lesson, include the following key points:
• Ultimately, everyone is responsible for protecting themselves from pregnancy and STDs.
• Other than abstinence, using condoms as well as a hormonal method is the most effective
way to prevent both STDs and unintended pregnancy.
• Ideally both partners are involved in making decisions about which methods would be best to
use.
• Remember that people can access confidential family planning services at low or no cost.
To find a clinic, or more information about birth control methods or sexual health, go to
www.Maineteenhealth.org.
• Whether you are gay or lesbian, female or male, having sex now, or not, everyone can benefit
from learning about preventing pregnancy.
Lesson 7 – Pregnancy Prevention
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170 Lesson 7 – Pregnancy Prevention
Patch
Pill
Depo-Provera
Shot
Implant
IUD
Name of the
birth control
method
Is it a Hormonal,
Barrier or
Behavioral
Method?
How does
it prevent
pregnancy?
How often do
you need to
remember
to use it?
Where can
you get it?
How effective is
it at preventing
pregnancy?
Does it also
protect
against STDs?
Name: ________________________________________
Visit any of the following websites to research the methods:
www.maineteenhealth.org/birthcontrol/
www.Stayteen.org/sex-ed/birth-control-explorer
www.arhp.org/methodmatch/
Birth Control Methods Worksheet Lesson 7 – Pregnancy Prevention
171
Withdrawal
Abstinence
Female
Condom
Male Condom
Emergency
Contraception
Vaginal Ring
Name of the
birth control
method
Is it a Hormonal,
Barrier or
Behavioral
Method?
How does
it prevent
pregnancy?
How often do
you need to
remember
to use it?
Where can
you get it?
How effective is
it at preventing
pregnancy?
Does it also
protect
against STDs?
Birth Control Fact Sheet
IUD
What is an IUD?
An IUD is a small, sterile, flexible, T-shaped piece of plastic that is about
an inch and a half long.
It is placed in the uterus to prevent pregnancy. There are two types of
IUDs: the Copper T and hormonal.
How does it work?
The IUD prevents pregnancy by affecting the way sperm move and from reaching an egg. Hormonal IUDs
also prevent ovulation (the release of an egg from an ovary).
About the Copper T
• May be safely left in the uterus for 10-12 years.
• Provides a hormone-free birth control option.
About hormonal IUDs
• May be safely left in the uterus for up to 3-5 years (depending on the brand).
• Can provide relief for people who experience heavy periods, bad cramps and PMS.
Who uses the IUD?
People who want a long-term, highly-effective, reversible method of birth control.
How do you use the IUD?
The IUD is placed into the uterus by a trained health professional. It can be left there from 3-12 years,
depending on the type of IUD.
Where do you get the IUD?
IUDs are available at a local family planning clinic or doctor’s office.
How effective is the IUD?
The IUD is 99% percent effective at preventing pregnancy.
Does the IUD protect against STDs?
An IUD does not protect against STDs. For STD protection a condom should also be used with this birth
control method.
How effective is the IUD?
The IUD is a very effective form of birth control. It is about 99% percent effective–meaning that if 100
women use the IUD, only one woman would become pregnant.
Does the IUD protect against STDs?
An IUD does not protect against STDs. You should also use a condom with this method.
172 Lesson 7 – Pregnancy Prevention
Birth Control Fact Sheet
IMPLANT
What is an implant?
The implant is a small, flexible rod that is inserted under the
skin of the upper arm and releases hormones in order to
prevent pregnancy.
How does it work?
The implant slowly releases a low dose of the hormone progestin into the bloodstream to prevent
ovulation (the release of an egg from an ovary). It also thickens the mucus in the cervix so it is hard for
sperm to enter the uterus.
Who uses an implant?
People who want a long-term, highly-effective, reversible method of birth control.
How do you use an implant?
A clinician inserts the implant into the upper arm. It can be left there for up to 3 years.
Where do you get an implant?
The implant is available at a local family planning clinic or doctor’s office.
How effective is an implant?
An implant is 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
Does an implant protect against STDs?
The implant does not protect against STDs. For STD protection a condom should also be used with this
birth control method.
Lesson 7 – Pregnancy Prevention
173
Birth Control Fact Sheet
THE PILL
Birth Control Pills
What is the pill?
The pill, also called oral contraceptives, is a hormonal method of
birth control taken every day. There are many different brands
and types of pills, some have a combination of the hormones
estrogen and progestin and others only contain progestin.
How does it work?
The pill works by releasing hormones that prevent ovulation
(the release of an egg from an ovary). It also thickens the mucus
in the cervix so it is hard for sperm to enter the uterus.
Who uses the pill?
People who want an effective birth control method and can remember to take a pill every day.
How do you use the pill?
A person needs a prescription from a health care provider. The pill is taken daily, around the same time
of day, to prevent pregnancy. Where do you get the pill?
The pill is available at a local family planning clinic or doctor’s office.
How effective is the pill?
The pill has a 92% typical-use effectiveness rate at preventing pregnancy.
Does the pill protect against STDs?
The pill does not protect against STDs. For STD protection a condom should also be used with this birth
control method.
174 Lesson 7 – Pregnancy Prevention
Birth Control Fact Sheet
THE DEPO-PROVERA SHOT
What is the shot?
The shot, or Depo-Provera, is a hormonal, long-acting form of
birth control. It is given every 13 weeks to prevent pregnancy.
How does it work?
The shot contains the hormone progestin which prevents
ovulation (the release of an egg from an ovary). It also
thickens the mucus in the cervix so it is hard for sperm to
enter the uterus.
Who uses the shot?
People who are not afraid of getting shots and are able to visit the clinic every 3 months. People who
want to have a birth control method that’s ‘invisible.’
How do you use the shot?
The shot is given every 13 weeks by a health care provider.
Where do you get the shot?
The depo shot is available at a local family planning clinic or doctor’s office.
How effective is the shot?
The shot is 99% effective when given every 13 weeks.
Does the shot protect against STDs?
The shot does not protect against STDs. For STD protection a condom should also be used with this birth
control method.
Lesson 7 – Pregnancy Prevention
175
Birth Control Fact Sheet
THE PATCH
What is the patch?
The patch is a birth control method that is applied directly to the skin every
week. It is a hormonal birth control method that uses both progestin and
estrogen to prevent pregnancy.
How does it work?
The patch works by releasing hormones that prevent ovulation (the release
of an egg from an ovary). It also thickens the mucus in the cervix so it is hard
for sperm to enter the uterus.
Who uses the patch?
People who do not want to take a pill every day, but don’t mind changing a
patch once a week.
How do you use the patch?
The patch is placed on the skin and delivers hormones directly through the skin into the blood. A new
patch is applied on the same day of the week for three weeks in a row and then there is one week
without the patch to allow for a period.
Where do you get the patch?
The patch is available by prescription from a family planning clinic or a doctor’s office.
How effective is the patch?
The patch has a 92% typical-use effectiveness rate at preventing pregnancy. The patch is less effective for
women who weigh over 198 pounds.
Does the patch protect against STDs?
The patch does not protect against STDs. For STD protection a condom should also be used with this birth
control method.
176 Lesson 7 – Pregnancy Prevention
Birth Control Fact Sheet
THE RING
What is the ring?
The ring is a flexible ring that is placed in the vagina monthly. It
is a hormonal birth control method that uses both progestin
and estrogen to prevent pregnancy.
How does it work?
The ring works by releasing hormones that prevent ovulation
(the release of an egg from an ovary). It also thickens the
mucus in the cervix so it is hard for sperm to enter the uterus.
Vaginal Ring
Who uses the ring?
People who want a method they change monthly and are comfortable inserting the ring into their vagina.
How do you use the ring?
A person using this method inserts the ring into their vagina on the same day each month, taking it out
for 5-6 days to allow for a period.
Where do you get the ring?
The ring is available at a local family planning clinic or doctor’s office.
How effective is the ring?
The ring has a 92% typical-use effectiveness rate at preventing pregnancy.
Does the ring protect against STDs?
The ring does not protect against STDs. For STD protection a condom should also be used with this birth
control method.
Lesson 7 – Pregnancy Prevention
177
Birth Control Fact Sheet
EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION
What is emergency contraception?
Emergency contraception (EC) is a pill someone can take if
they’ve had unprotected sex. It is a pill that uses hormones to
prevent the release of an egg. It does not cause an abortion. How does it work?
EC prevents pregnancy by stopping ovulation (the release
of an egg from an ovary). It also thickens the mucus in the
cervix so it is hard for sperm to enter the uterus. EC can be
taken up to 5 days after unprotected sex, but it’s more effective the sooner it’s taken. If a person is
already pregnant, EC won’t hurt the pregnancy in any way.
Who uses emergency contraception?
People use EC when they’ve had unprotected sex or their regular form of birth control failed. It works
best if taken within 12 hours after unprotected sex, but can be taken up to 5 days.
The effectiveness of (some forms of) EC is significantly decreased if a person has a BMI of 26 or greater.
There are prescription options for people with a BMI of 26 or greater.
How do you use emergency contraception?
EC can be taken after unprotected sex or if a person’s regular birth control method failed, such as a
condom broke or slipped off, a person missed their birth control pills, etc. A packet of EC can be kept at
home for emergencies.
Where do you get emergency contraception?
EC is available at a local family planning clinic. In addition, anyone can get EC at the pharmacy without a
prescription—there’s no age or gender requirement.
How effective is emergency contraception?
EC is 75% effective at preventing a pregnancy after unprotected sex. It works best if taken within 12
hours, but still works up to 5 days after unprotected sex. The chance of becoming pregnant increases
with each day after unprotected sex.
Does EC protect against STDs?
EC does not protect against STDs. If a person has had unprotected sex, they should get tested.
178 Lesson 7 – Pregnancy Prevention
Birth Control Fact Sheet
MALE CONDOMS
What is the male condom?
The male condom is a thin layer of latex, lambskin or
polyurethane that covers an erect penis. Condoms are used to
prevent pregnancy and protect from STDs during vaginal, anal
or oral sex.
Condoms come in a variety of colors, sizes and textures. Some
condoms are lubricated, which makes them more comfortable
to use during sex. Only water- or silicone-based lubricants can
be used with latex condoms.
How does it work?
Male condoms provide a barrier that prevents direct contact with semen, thereby preventing sperm
from reaching an egg, and also preventing STDs.
Who uses the male condom?
People who want an easy-to-use, affordable and accessible method of protection from both STDs and
pregnancy.
How do you use the male condom?
It’s best to plan on and talk to a partner about using a condom ahead of time. Before using a condom,
make sure it unrolls the correct way. Pull back the foreskin (for an uncircumcised penis) and unroll the
condom all the way to the base of the penis.
Use a new condom for each act of oral, anal or vaginal sex. Remove the condom immediately after
ejaculation. Withdraw the penis while holding the rim of the condom at the base to prevent any semen
(cum) from spilling out.
Where do you get the male condom?
Male condoms are available at many supermarkets, pharmacies or at a local family planning clinic. You
don’t need a prescription and people of all ages can buy condoms.
How effective is the male condom?
When condoms are used correctly every time, they are 98% effective. When they are not used each time
or used incorrectly, their effectiveness can be as low as 85%.
Does the male condom protect against STDs?
Yes. Condoms are the only birth control method that also protects against STDs. Using them along with
another birth control method provides extra protection.
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Birth Control Fact Sheet
FEMALE CONDOMS
What is a female condom?
The female condom is a thin polyurethane pouch inserted into
the vagina or anus. It can be used by both men and women for
safe vaginal and anal sex. It blocks sperm from reaching the egg
to prevent pregnancy and also protects against STDs.
How does it work?
Female condoms provide a barrier that prevents direct contact
with semen, thereby preventing sperm from reaching an egg.
Who uses female condoms?
People who want STD protection and pregnancy prevention. Female condoms are also used by people who may want to use
condoms but are allergic to latex.
How do you use female condoms?
The female condom can be inserted into the vagina or anus before having sex. It is a tube-shaped condom
with a flexible ring on each end. The inner ring at the closed end is used to insert the condom inside the
vagina or anus and to hold it in place during sex. The outer ring at the open end of the pouch remains
outside the vagina or anus. The penis is inserted into the open end of the condom.
Where do you get female condoms?
Female condoms are available at the supermarket, pharmacy or at a local family planning clinic, although
they are not as common as male condoms. Female condoms do not require a prescription and people
of any age can buy them.
How effective are female condoms?
When used correctly every time, the female condom is 95% effective for pregnancy prevention. When
they are not used each time or used incorrectly, their effectiveness can be as low as 79%.
Do female condoms protect against STDs?
Yes. Condoms are the only birth control method that also protects against STDs. Using them along with
another birth control method provides extra protection.
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Birth Control Fact Sheet
ABSTINENCE
What is abstinence?
Choosing to refrain from certain sexual behaviors for a
period of time. For some this refers to vaginal intercourse
only, for others it also includes oral and anal sex. And for
some is may mean not engaging in any kind of sexual activity.
Who uses abstinence?
People who want STD protection and pregnancy prevention.
How do I use abstinence?
Abstinence is a method that relies on certain skills and attitudes in order to make it work effectively.
Those may include: talking to your partner, commitment, partner cooperation, belief that pregnancy is
possible, alternative ways to show affection, self-control to resist sex, taking time to pause, understanding
of the risks, assertive communication skills, shared values with partner, and confidence.
How effective is abstinence?
When used correctly, abstinence is 100% effective for pregnancy prevention.
Does abstinence protect against STDs?
Yes, abstinence protects against STDs.
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WITHDRAWAL
What is withdrawal?
Withdrawal is another word for pulling the penis out of the vagina before
ejaculation.
Who uses withdrawal?
People who want to prevent pregnancy. This method is best if the couple is
ready and able to deal with a possible pregnancy.
How do I use withdrawal?
The male pulls his penis out of his partner’s body before he ejaculates, making
sure not to get semen near the woman’s genitals.
How effective is withdrawal?
Withdrawal is very effective for men who can tell when they’re about to ejaculate. It takes experience
and a lot of self-control to be able to pull out completely in time.
Does withdrawal protect against STDs?
Withdrawal does not protect against STDs.
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