Prevention & Protection
Evidence-based information about contraception, STI prevention, and reproductive health care.
Contraception Methods
Understanding different birth control options and their effectiveness
Hormonal Methods
Birth control that uses hormones to prevent pregnancy.
- Birth control pills
- Patches and rings
- Injections (Depo-Provera)
- Implants and IUDs
Effectiveness: 91-99% with perfect use
Barrier Methods
Physical barriers that prevent sperm from reaching eggs.
- Condoms (male and female)
- Diaphragms and cervical caps
- Spermicides
- Dental dams
Effectiveness: 72-98% with perfect use
Long-Acting & Permanent
Methods that provide long-term or permanent protection.
- IUDs (hormonal and copper)
- Implants (Nexplanon)
- Vasectomy
- Tubal ligation
Effectiveness: Over 99%
Contraception Effectiveness Comparison
| Method | Perfect Use | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Implant | 99% | 99% |
| IUD | 99% | 99% |
| Birth Control Pill | 99% | 91% |
| Condom | 98% | 82% |
Source: CDC - Perfect use means always using the method correctly. Typical use reflects real-world effectiveness.
STI Prevention & Information
Understanding sexually transmitted infections and how to prevent them
Common STIs
Information about frequently encountered sexually transmitted infections.
- Chlamydia: Bacterial infection, often asymptomatic
- Gonorrhea: Bacterial infection, can cause serious complications
- HIV: Viral infection affecting immune system
- HPV: Common virus, some strains can cause cancer
- Herpes: Viral infection causing sores
- Syphilis: Bacterial infection with multiple stages
Prevention Strategies
Effective ways to reduce STI transmission risk.
- Consistent condom use
- Regular STI testing
- Vaccinations (HPV, Hepatitis B)
- Mutual monogamy
- Open communication with partners
- Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV
Testing Information
When and how to get tested for STIs.
- Recommended testing frequency
- Types of tests available
- Confidential testing locations
- At-home testing options
- Insurance coverage and costs
- Partner notification services
Reproductive Health
Comprehensive care for reproductive and sexual health throughout life
Menstrual Health
Understanding and managing menstrual cycles and related health.
- Normal cycle patterns
- Managing period symptoms
- Menstrual products overview
- When to seek medical help
- Conditions like PCOS and endometriosis
Fertility Awareness
Understanding fertility and reproductive health across the lifespan.
- How conception works
- Fertility tracking methods
- Age and fertility factors
- When to consider fertility evaluation
- Fertility preservation options
Preventive Care
Routine healthcare for maintaining reproductive health.
- Regular check-ups and exams
- Cancer screenings (pap smears, etc.)
- Vaccinations and immunizations
- Breast and testicular self-exams
- Mental health considerations
Emergency Contraception
Options for preventing pregnancy after unprotected sex
Emergency Contraception Pills
Also known as "morning after pills."
- Levonorgestrel pills: Effective up to 72 hours
- Ulipristal acetate: Effective up to 120 hours
- Availability: Over-the-counter or prescription
- Effectiveness: Higher when taken sooner
Important: Emergency contraception prevents pregnancy but does not protect against STIs.
Copper IUD
The most effective form of emergency contraception.
- Effectiveness: Over 99%
- Timeframe: Up to 5 days after unprotected sex
- Additional benefit: Provides ongoing contraception
- Requires: Healthcare provider insertion
Getting Healthcare
How to access reproductive and sexual health services
Finding Providers
- Primary care physicians
- Gynecologists and urologists
- Planned Parenthood clinics
- Community health centers
- School-based health centers
- Telehealth options
Cost & Insurance
- Insurance coverage information
- Affordable Care Act benefits
- Sliding scale fees
- Free and low-cost clinics
- Patient assistance programs
Your Rights
- Confidentiality rights
- Consent for treatment
- Access to information
- Non-discrimination protections
- Reproductive rights