What is birth control?

Birth control is the conscious attempt to avoid conception while being sexually active. Birth control has been around since men and women figured out what caused pregnancy and that they could do something about it!  Even back in ancient societies, various natural materials were used to act as a barrier or spermicide. Today, we have in-depth knowledge and means for preventing conception. Nonetheless, we still have varying numbers of unwanted pregnancies around the globe. Clearly our advanced methods still do not work unless they are available, understood and used properly. Even then, they are not 100% reliable. No method is. 

Sexual activity close to but not quite intercourse can result in pregnancy. It rarely happens but if ejaculation occurs and whatever material between the penis and vagina is wet and thin, sperm can cross that barrier. Be smart. Be prepared. You can get pregnant the first time if you aren't.

There are various types of birth control to choose from:

1. Pharmaceutical - such as the pill or patch, etc.
2. Chemical - such as the spermicidal creams, jellies and that added to condoms
3. Abstinence - such as maintaining virginity or the rhythm method.
4. Barriers - such as condoms, sponges, diaphragms, etc.

In Canada, all Public Health Units are listed in the local telephone directory and have staff and clinic times so you can consult face-to-face to get advice on what method is best for you. You can also go on-line to find legitimate advice on birth control from reliable websites, such as Sharecare. For parents trying to answer or advise their children, the same resources are available.

Birth control is anything that controls the onset of pregnancy.  It is also called family planning. There are many methods of birth control. Some contain hormones and are taken orally, injected, place on the skin in the form of a patch, placed in the vagina or inserted under the skin. There are more mechanical forms that are placed in the uterus, in the vagina or on the male penis (condom). Not having sex or not having sex during your most fertile time in the month is also birth control.  

The web has many resources for birth control information. Make sure you access a legitimate source. It will usually end in .org or .gov.  Web MD and Mayo clinic have good web sites. You can also make an appointment with your OB/GYN provider for more information and to discuss what would be right for you.  

Birth control is any method used to prevent pregnancy. Another word for birth control is contraception (say "kon-truh-SEP-shun"). The only sure way to prevent pregnancy is to not have sex. But finding a good method of birth control can help you avoid an unplanned pregnancy.