How to Use Birth Control Effectively

Fifty-three percent of unplanned pregnancies occur in women using contraceptives. Practice these techniques to increase the effectiveness of your contraceptive.

Difficulty Level: average      Time Required: 5 minutes

1. If you use oral contraceptives take them at the same time each day.
2. Use your chosen method of birth control consistently. Just one incident of forgetfulness can result in an unplanned pregnancy.
3. Follow the directions for your birth control method exactly as instructed.
4. Use an alternative method of contraception, such as a condom, if you forget 2 or more oral contraceptives in one cycle.
5. If you are given antibiotics, ask the pharmacist if they will reduce the effectiveness of your oral contraceptives.
6. Using a condom and spermicide with a diaphragm or cervical cap during your fertile period can result in almost 100% contraceptive success
7. If you use an IUD, check for the string extending from your cervix monthly, if you can't feel it use alternative contraception and call your physician.
8. Call your physician immediately for emergency contraceptives after unprotected sex. You have 72 hours after unprotected sex to use emergency contraceptives to prevent pregnancy.
   

Tips:

1. Remember, even one act of unprotected sexual intercourse can result in an unplanned pregnancy.
2. If you have any questions about the use of your birth control method, contact your healthcare provider.
3. Contact your physician if you experience any side effects such as abnormal bleeding, pain, or fever.
   

Related Features:

• Contraceptive Choices
• Sterilization: Tubal Ligation Vs. Vasectomy
• Emergency Contraceptives
• Natural Family Planning
• Unplanned Pregnancy