Sex! Let’s talk about it. Or at least, one part: Contraception. What is it and why should you care?
What is Contraception?
Also known as birth control, contraception is the use of medicines, devices, or surgeries to prevent pregnancy.


Types of Contraception
Contraception comes in many forms and varies in effectiveness. It includes:
- Oral contraceptive pills – 7/100 people get pregnant a year with how this is commonly used
- Implants – 0.1/100 people get pregnant a year with how this is commonly used
- Injectables – 4/100 people get pregnant a year with how this is commonly used for progesterone injectables only, and 3/100 people get pregnant a year with how this is commonly used for monthly or combined injectables
- Patches – 7/100 people get pregnant a year with how this is commonly used
- Vaginal rings – 7/100 people get pregnant a year with how this is commonly used
- Intra-uterine devices – 0.8/100 people get pregnant a year with how this is commonly used when it is copper-containing, .7/100 people get pregnant a year with how this is commonly used when it is levonorgestrel
- Condoms – 13/100 people get pregnant a year with how this is commonly used with male condoms, 21/100 people get pregnant a year with how this is commonly used.
- Male and female sterilization – 0.15/100 people get pregnant a year with how this is commonly used when it is the male, 0.5/100 people get pregnant a year with how this is commonly used when it is the female
- Lactational amenorrhea methods – 2 in six months/100 people get pregnant a year with how this is commonly used
- Calendar Method or Rhythm Method – 15/100 people get pregnant a year with how this is commonly used
- Withdrawal (Pull-Out Method) – 20/100 people get pregnant a year with how this is commonly used


Women of Color and Contraception

Unfortunately, contraception isn’t the same for everyone. The U.S. has a long history of forced sterilization as a form of control over women of color such as black and Native women. Even today, black women/people with uteruses are more likely to use sterilization as birth control than Hispanic and white people. If you’re interested in reading more, In Our Own Voice’s study called “Contraceptive Equity For Black Women” is a great place to start!
Contraception Recommendations
Overall, we recommend whatever you’re most comfortable with for your reproductive needs. Regardless, being careful during sex should stay at the forefront of everyone’s mind to prevent pregnancy and STDs!
Conclusion
It is important when discussing forms of contraception to be open, honest, and understanding. And when talking with your doctor, it is okay to feel intimidated or unheard as you are not alone. Together, we can make contraception and sex safe!
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Please note, Aydan can’t give medical advice
One Response
This info is great! My doctor usually automatically offers the pill but it’s good to know there are other options!