risk reduction methods

palmer high school

Permanent Methods

Tubal Ligation(Surgically cut the fallopian tubes to prevent sperm reaching the egg.

Vasectomy(Surgically cutting the vas deferens to eliminate sperm from leaving the male reproductive system.)

Hysterectomy(Removal of the uterus)

• Inhibit ovulation (prevent the release of eggs from the ovary)

• Thicken mucus in the cervix

• Thin the lining of the uterus (endometrium)

Hormonal Methods

Pill (Taken orally, daily)

Patch (1 patch per week – for 3 weeks)

Nuva Ring (1 ring for 3 weeks)

Depo Provera (1 shot – every 3 months)

92% - 99.7%

Up to 99.7%

Up to 99.7%

99.7%

Emergency Contraception

1 pill should be taken within 72 hours after unprotected sex and 1 more pill 12 hours later

Recent research indicates that both doses can be taken at the same time up to 120 hours after unprotected sex. The pills are more effective the sooner they are taken.

20% - 40% Failure RateNo STI protection

60% - 80%

Intrauterine Device

Contains a progesterone-like hormone

Interfere with sperm movement preventing sperm from reaching the fallopian tubes

Thickens cervical mucus

Preventing the fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus

Very effective - less than one pregnancy per 100 users

Spermicides

Gels, foams, creams, film, and suppositories which contain a chemical that kills sperm.

Placed in the vagina before intercourse – each method has specific directions for use.

71% - 85%

If used without another birth control method (such as condoms), not very effective

Typical use results in 71% of the users getting pregnant in one year

May decrease your risk of getting some STDs

But… may actually INCREASE your risk of getting HIV infection

Barrier Methods

Male Condom

Female Condom

Sponge (Barrier and spermicidal Method)

Diaphragm and Cervical Cap

85% - 98%

79% – 95%

84% - 94%

87% - 91%

Withdrawal 73% (Preg.) 0% (STI)(Withdrawing the penis prior to ejaculation)

Fertility Awareness 75% (Preg.)0% (STI)

(Abstain from sex around the time of ovulation – specific training with a doctor is required.)

Abstinence 100% (Preg) 100% (STI)(Abstaining from all forms of sexual contact)