ABORTIFACIENT AND

CONTRACEPTIVES

SUBMITTED BY:
FRANCIS GABRIEL L. VILLANUEVA

SUBMITTED TO:
MR. MARIO LUTHER DEBUQUE
DRUGS DIRECTLY
ACTING ON UTERUS
IRRITANTS OF
GENITO
URINARY
TRACT
What does genitourinary mean?
• Genitourinary is a word that refers to the
urinary and genital organs.
• Urology is the branch of medicine concerned
with the urinary tract in both genders and the
genital tract of the reproductive system in
males.
• Nephrology is the branch of medicine
concerned with the kidney.
• What is the urinary tract?
The urinary tract includes the organ system primarily
responsible for cleaning and filtering excess fluid
and waste material from the blood. The urinary
system is made up of the following:
• Kidneys
• Ureters
• Bladder
• Urethra
The kidneys also function as glands that produce
hormones necessary for building red blood cells and
regulating blood pressure.
What causes problems in the urinary system?
In children, problems of the urinary system include acute and
chronic kidney failure, urinary tract infections, obstructions
along the urinary tract, and abnormalities present at birth.
Diseases of the kidneys often produce temporary or permanent
changes to the small functional structures and vessels inside
the kidney. Frequent urinary tract infections can cause
scarring to these structures leading to renal (kidney) failure.
Some diseases that cause kidney damage include:
• Glomerulonephritis
• Hemolytic uremic syndrome
• Polycystic kidney disease
• Hydronephrosis
• Urinary tract infections
Disorders of the urinary tract are often related to a blockage that prevents complete emptying of the bladder
and often leads to reverse flow of urine. A urinary tract obstruction can cause damage to the urinary tract
and kidneys because urine backs-up and pools in various areas along the tract. Pooling of urine in the
bladder, ureters, or kidneys can lead to infection, scarring, and long-term kidney failure. Some disorders
that cause obstruction of the urinary tract include:
• Megaureter
• Posterior urethral valves
• Ureterocele or ureteral duplication
• Vesicoureteral reflux
• Neurogenic bladder
Several disorders of the urinary tract only affect males, which are largely related to the male anatomy as well
as fetal development. Disorders that affect males may involve the penis, urethra, or testes. Some of the
male urogenital disorders include:
• Undescended testes or cryptorchidism
• Hydrocele
• Hypospadias
• Inguinal hernia
• Micropenis
• Testicular torsion
Disorders of the genitourinary system in children are often detected by fetal ultrasound prior to birth. If not
detected on fetal ultrasound, often children will develop a urinary tract infection that will prompt your
child's doctor to perform special diagnostic tests that may detect an abnormality. Some diseases of the
kidney do not reveal themselves until later in life or after a child has a bacterial infection or an immune
disorder.
IRRITANTS OF
GI TRACT
Alcohol, in any form, is an
intestinal irritant, causing inflammation
and damage to the digestive tract wall.
It can also be absorbed directly into the
mucosal cells that line the digestive
tract, and converted into aldehyde
which interferes with DNA repair and
promotes tumours.
What foods cause gastrointestinal
problems?
Many refrigerated foods can go bad, such
as dated items like eggs, dairy products,
and meat. Bacteria like salmonella and E.
coli can also pass from raw meat to
veggies and fruits. Eating tainted foods
can cause digestive problems or worsen
existing ones, including diarrhea and
vomiting.
 COMBINED BIRTH CONTROL PILLS
Combined oral contraceptive pills contain two hormones,
an estrogen and a progestin. They work by stopping
ovulation (release of an egg) and by inhibiting the
movement of sperm. Among typical couples who initiate
use of combined pills about eight percent of women will
experience an accidental pregnancy in the first year. But if
pills are used consistently and correctly, just three in 1,000
women will become pregnant. For increased protection
against sexually transmitted diseases, use condoms as
well. Pills alone do not protect against STIs and HIV.

Complete information about this contraceptive method is

available through a clinician or the package insert
accompanying the specific pills you are taking.
 ADVANTAGES OF CHOOSING COMBINED ORAL CONTRACEPTIVE
PILLS
• When properly prescribed for the individual, pills are safer than
pregnancy and delivery.
• Pills decrease a woman's risk for cancer of the ovaries and cancer
of the lining of the uterus (endometrial cancer). Pills also lower a
woman's chances of having benign breast masses.
• Pills significantly decrease a woman's menstrual cramps and pain.
• Pills reduce menstrual blood loss and anemia.
• Pills reduced PMS symptoms.
• Pills can reduce prevalence of acne by up to two-thirds.
• Many women enjoy sex more when on pills because they know
they won't get pregnant.
• Some clinicians will provide pills without a pelvic exam.
• Pills suppress endometriosis.
 DISADVANTAGES OF CHOOSING COMBINED ORAL CONTRACEPTIVE PILLS
• Pills do not protect from HIV/AIDS or other STIs. Use a condom for added
protection.
• A woman must remember to take the pill at the same time, every day.
• Nausea and/or spotting are the two problems women may have the first month on
pills.
• Missed periods or very light periods. Pills tend to make periods very short and
light.
• A woman may see no blood at all. Most women like this when they understand it
is to be expected.
• Some women experience headaches, depression or decreased enjoyment of sex.
• Serious complications such as blood clots are rare, but do occur.
• Pills can be quite expensive and usually require a prescription.
• Use of pills is associated with a statistically higher risk of developing cervical
dysplasia. Pills users with dysplasia who also have HPV (human papillomavirus)
have a three- to four-fold higher risk of developing cervical cancer.
• Pill users who smoke or have hypertension are at significantly higher risk of
suffering a stroke, compared to other pill users. Pill users who smoke are also at
significantly higher risk of a heart attack, compared to pill users who do not smoke
and to other women.
Choosing not to have sex(ABSTINENCE)
Choosing not to have sex provides 100
percent protection from HIV, STIs, and
pregnancy. For some, this means avoiding
vaginal, anal, and oral-genital intercourse
altogether. Others may choose to avoid
any type of sexual or intimate contact,
including hugging and kissing. Choosing
not to have sex is often referred to as
“abstinence.”
ADVANTAGES OF CHOOSING NOT TO HAVE SEX
(ABSTINENCE)
• Choosing not to have sex is free and available to all.
• Not having sex is extremely effective at preventing both
infection and pregnancy. It is the only 100% effective
method of preventing sexually transmitted infections
(STIs) and unintended pregnancy.
• Not having sex can be practiced at any time in one's life.
• Not having sex may encourage people to build
relationships in other ways.
• Not having sex may be the course of action which you
feel is right for you and makes you feel good about
yourself.
 DISADVANTAGES OF CHOOSING
NOT TO HAVE SEX
(ABSTINENCE)
• If you've made the choice not
to have sex, and change your
mind in the heat of the
moment, you might not have
birth control handy.
 PROGESTIN-ONLY PILLS
Progestin-only pills contain just one hormone, a progestin.
They work by making cervical mucus thicker so sperm cannot
get to the egg, and by making the lining of the uterus thinner.
Sometimes they stop ovulation (release of an egg). Among
typical couples who initiate the use of progestin-only pills
about eight percent of women will experience accidental
pregnancy in the first year. But if these pills are used
consistently and correctly, just three in 1000 women will
become pregnant. For protection from HIV and increased
protection from pregnancy, use condoms as well. Pills alone
do not protect from STIs and HIV.

Complete information about this contraceptive is available

through a clinician or the package insert accompanying the
specific pills you or your partner are taking.
 ADVANTAGES OF CHOOSING PROGESTIN-ONLY PILLS
• Minipills do not have estrogen related side effects and can be
taken by women who have had side effects or complications
using estrogen-containing pills.
• The amount of the progestin in minipills is LESS than in
combined pills.
• Nursing mothers can take progestin-only pills (preferably after
the baby is six weeks old).
• Minipills cause light menstrual flow and less anemia.
• Minipills reduce menstrual cramps, pain, headaches, mood
swings, and breast tenderness.
• Minipills are associated with reduced risk of endometrial
cancer, ovarian cancer, and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
• Minipills can help manage the pain associated with
endometriosis.
 DISADVANTAGES OF CHOOSING PROGESTIN-ONLY PILLS
• Minipills do not protect from HIV/AIDS or other STIs. Use a
condom for added protection.
• Menstrual irregularity is the big problem with minipills. While
the amount of blood lost is less, bleeding may be at irregular
intervals and there may be spotting between periods.
• Minipills tend to make periods very short and scanty. A
woman may go several months with no bleeding at all, and
some women do not like this.
• A woman must remember to take a pill every single day.
• Some women using minipills gain weight or complain of
feeling bloated. Regular exercise and attention to a nutritious
diet can minimize or control weight gain.
• Some women using minipills experience increased symptoms
of depression.
 CERVICAL CAP
The cervical cap is a small cap made of soft latex. A doctor
or nurse practitioner "fits" a woman for a cervical cap. The
woman puts spermicide (which destroys the sperm) in the
cap and then places the cap up into her vagina and onto her
cervix (the opening of the womb). Suction keeps the cap in
place so sperm cannot enter the uterus (the womb).
Women should obtain a new cap yearly. Among typical
couples who initiate use of the cap before having a child,
about 16 percent of women will experience an accidental
pregnancy in the first year. If the cervical cap is used
consistently and correctly, about nine percent of women will
become pregnant. Failure rates are significantly higher if the
cervical cap is used after a woman has had a child. Use a
condom for additional protection against HIV and other STIs.
 ADVANTAGES OF CHOOSING A CERVICAL CAP
• The cervical cap is small and easy to carry.
May be put in up to one hour before sex.
• It will work continuously for 48 hours.
• It does not matter how many times a couple
has sex as long as you leave it in at least six to
eight hours after the last time you have sex.
• Your partner doesn't have to know you are
using it.
 DISADVANTAGES OF CHOOSING A CERVICAL CAP

• Is not the best protection against HIV and other STIs.

• The cervical cap must be fitted by a clinician.
• You must wash your hands with soap and water before putting in the cap.
• It may interrupt sex.
• A woman has to take it with her on vacations or trips.
• It increases a woman's risk for inflammation of the surface of the cervix.
• It is difficult for some women to insert a cervical cap properly even after being taught.
• If left in too long, increases slightly a woman's risk for a very serious infection called toxic
shock syndrome. Don't leave your cervical cap in for more than 48 hours.
• It may accidentally be placed onto the cervix improperly or may slip out of place during
sex.
• After putting it in, a woman must check to be sure it is covering the opening of the
uterus, called the cervix.
• New fitting may be necessary after a baby, abortion, miscarriage, or gaining 15 pounds.
• Latex may cause irritation or a woman may be allergic to it.
• A woman should have a new cap each year.
• You need fresh spermicidal cream or jelly each time you use your cap.
• It is not recommended that you use a cervical cap during menstruation.*
 Condoms
• Effective condoms are made of latex or polyurethane. Unrolled,
condoms look like long, thin balloons. They prevent body fluids from
mixing when two people have sex. The condom is put onto the penis
before the penis comes into contact with the vagina, mouth, or anus.
• Latex condoms, when used consistently and correctly during vaginal,
oral, or anal intercourse, are highly effective in preventing the sexual
transmission of HIV. They are also effective in preventing most sexually
transmitted infections (STIs). Gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis
are transmitted when infected semen or vaginal or other body fluids
contact mucosal surfaces. Condoms provide a great level of protection
against these STIs because they protect both partners against exposure
to the other's body fluids. Condoms also provide some protection
against STIs—such as genital herpes, syphilis, chancroid, and human
papillomavirus (HPV)—which are transmitted primarily through contact
with infected skin or with mucosal surfaces. Because these STIs may be
transmitted by contact with surfaces not covered or protected by the
condom, condoms provide a lesser degree of protection against them.
 ADVANTAGES OF CHOOSING CONDOMS
• Condoms are safe and effective at
preventing both pregnancy and some
infections when used at each act of sex.
• Using condoms is the best method of
preventing infection if two people are
going to have sex.
• No prescription is needed to get
condoms.
 DISADVANTAGES OF CHOOSING CONDOMS
• Condoms do not provide complete protection against
genital herpes, syphilis, chancroid, or HPV because the
STIs can be transmitted across infected skin surfaces not
covered by the condom.
• When putting the condom on the penis you must avoid
tearing the condom or putting a hole in it with
fingernails, a ring, or anything sharp.
• YOU CAN'T USE OIL BASED LUBRICANTS, such as
Vaseline or sun tan oil. These products can cause a hole
in a condom.
• The man must pull out soon after ejaculation or the
condom could fall off and spill or be left in the vagina.
• Some people are sensitive or allergic to latex.
 VAGINAL CONTRACEPTIVE FILM
• The film is a little two inch by two inch thin sheet with
a chemical that kills sperm (a chemical called
nonoxynol-9). It is placed on or near the cervix (the
opening of the womb). It dissolves in seconds. Among
typical couples who initiate use of vaginal spermicide,
29 percent of women will experience an accidental
pregnancy in the first year. If vaginal spermicide is
used consistently and correctly, about 18 percent of
women will become pregnant. This method is most
effective when used in combination with condoms.
Complete information about film is available through
your clinic, your clinician, or the package insert
accompanying vaginal contraceptive film.
 ADVANTAGES OF VAGINAL CONTRACEPTIVE FILM
• Film is simple to use.
• It is not messy; there is no discharge. It is
virtually undetectable and discreet. You can't tell
it is there.
• Vaginal contraceptive film can be bought at most
drug stores; no prescription is needed.
• Film may be used alone or with a diaphragm or a
condom.
• It reduces the risk of getting some sexually
transmitted diseases.
 DISADVANTAGES OF VAGINAL CONTRACEPTIVE FILM
• Contraceptive film does not adequately protect from the
HIV/AIDS virus or other STIs. Use a condom if you or your partner
may be at risk.
• Frequent use of nonoxynol-9 can cause irritation which may
increase susceptibility to HIV and other STIs.
• It must be inserted no longer than one hour before sex. Inserting
it may interrupt sex.
• A woman must use a new film each time she has intercourse.
• The film must make contact with the cervix in order to be
effective.
• A woman must wash hands with soap and water before putting
the contraceptive film in. She must also dry hands carefully to
keep the film from sticking to her fingers.
• Some people may be sensitive to film or find it causes irritation.
• It is not as effective as some other contraceptives.
 CONTRACEPTIVE FOAM
• Foam is placed into the woman's vagina using an
applicator and has two effects. It kills or destroys
sperm and blocks the man's fluids from entering the
cervical canal. Foam stops sperm from getting to the
egg. Among typical couples who initiate use of vaginal
spermicide, 29 percent will experience an accidental
pregnancy in the first year. If vaginal spermicide is used
consistently and correctly, about 18 percent will
become pregnant. Foam is most is effective when used
in combination with condoms. Complete information
about this contraceptive is available through a family
planning association or clinic, a clinician or the package
insert accompanying the foam.
 ADVANTAGES OF CONTRACEPTIVE FOAM
• Foam gives the woman control over use of a
contraceptive.
• It is available over the counter without a visit to a
clinician.
• It can be put into the vagina up to 20 minutes
before sexual intercourse, but it is also effective
immediately.
• Foam is safe and has no hormones.
• The man's penis can remain inside the vagina after
ejaculation.
 DISADVANTAGES OF CONTRACEPTIVE FOAM
• It may not be protective against HIV/AIDS. To
increase effectiveness, use condoms.
• Foam can be irritating to the vagina, and some
people feel that it is messy.
• Some women do not like placing an applicator
up into the vagina.
• The taste of foam is unpleasant.
• The container carrying the foam is large and
some may find it embarrassing to carry
around.
 CONTRACEPTIVE IMPLANTS
• The contraceptive implant (Implanon) is a single
implant inserted into the upper arm. After a woman
is given a local anesthetic, insertion takes only a few
minutes. Usually it does not hurt. Implants give off
very small amounts of a hormone much like the
progesterone a woman's body produces during the
last two weeks of each monthly cycle. Among typical
couples who initiate use of implants, five women in
1,000 will experience an accidental pregnancy in the
first year. Complete information about this
contraceptive is available through a clinician or the
package insert accompanying the implant.
 ADVANTAGES OF CONTRACEPTIVE IMPLANTS
• Implanon is effective for three years. In a recent
study, no pregnancies occurred among the first
70,000 cycles of Implanon users. That's great
protection!
• There is nothing to do on a daily basis or at the time
of intercourse.
• Women lose less blood during menstruation. They
also have less cramping, headaches, and breast
tenderness.
• Depression and premenstrual symptoms may
improve.
 DISADVANTAGES OF CONTRACEPTIVE IMPLANTS
• Implants do not protect from HIV/AIDS or other STIs. Use a
condom, if you or your partner may be at risk.
• Implants are quite likely to cause irregular periods in some
women. If bothersome to you, contact your clinician. There
are drugs that a woman may take to have a more acceptable
pattern of bleeding. As time goes on a woman's periods may
become more regular.
• You may gain weight, lose hair, develop headaches or note
darkening of the skin over your implants. Implants may
cause some arm discomfort.
• Depression and premenstrual symptoms may become
worse.
• A woman may have trouble finding a clinician who will
remove her implants.
 CONTRACEPTIVE SPONGE
The vaginal sponge is a barrier method of preventing
pregnancy. That is, the sponge acts as a barrier to prevent
semen from entering the cervix. The sponge is more effective
with women who have never given birth than with women who
have. With typical use of the sponge, about 16 percent of
women will experience pregnancy within one year. With
consistent and correct use of the sponge, about nine percent of
women will experience pregnancy within one year.

Because vaginal barrier methods, including the sponge, protect

the cervix, they may help in preventing some sexually
transmitted infections, including gonorrhea, chlamydia, and
trichomoniasis. Studies about the protective effect of vaginal
barrier methods are not consistent, however, so women should
also use condoms to prevent sexually transmitted infections.
ADVANTAGES OF THE CONTRACEPTIVE
SPONGE
• Sponges are easy to use, relatively
inexpensive, and available without
prescription.
• Because you may insert the sponge
when your sex partner is not present,
they offer a good measure of
contraceptive privacy.
 DISADVANTAGES OF THE CONTRACEPTIVE SPONGE
• Unlike hormonal methods, the sponge does not provide constant
protection. You need a new one for each occasion of sex.
• You need to wash your hands with soap and water before you
insert the sponge.
• The sponge must be inserted into the vagina and up against the
cervix prior to the penis entering the vagina.
• Some women find it difficult to place the sponge correctly.
• Some women have difficulty removing the sponge.
• If left within the vagina for more than 30 hours, the sponge slightly
increases your risk for a very serious infection called toxic shock
syndrome. Don’t leave your sponge in for more than 30 hours.
• The sponge may accidentally be placed onto the cervix improperly
or may slip out of place during sex.
• Sponges must be stored in a clean, cool, dark place—not in the
glove compartment of a car or in a purse.
 CONTRACEPTIVE SUPPOSITORIES
Contraceptive suppositories are barrier methods of birth
control that are inserted deep into the vagina before
sexual intercourse. The suppository melts, releasing
spermicide. The spermicide prevents sperm from moving
toward the egg and also protects the cervix. Of 100
women who use contraceptive suppositories less than
perfectly, 29 will accidentally get pregnant during the first
year. With perfect use, 15 women will get pregnant.
Suppositories provide no protection against sexually
transmitted infections. In fact, you should not use this
method over and over in a single day because frequent
daily use of any barrier method that contains the
spermicide nonoxynol-9 can increase your risk of HIV and
other STIs. For protection against STIs, use condoms.
 ADVANTAGES OF SUPPOSITORIES
• Are inexpensive and available
without prescription;
• Can be used by any woman who
wants to use them; and
• Remain effective for about one
hour after insertion.
 DISADVANTAGES OF SUPPOSITORIES
• Suppositories do not protect from HIV or other STIs.
Use condoms as well.
• Some brands of spermicide may irritate the penis or
vagina. Try different brands if this happens.
• Suppositories cannot safely be used many times in
one day.
• A new suppository must be inserted deep into the
vagina prior to each act of sex.
• If not used exactly as directed, the suppository may
not form a good barrier over the cervix.
• Suppositories can be messy.
 DIAPHRAGM
A diaphragm is a latex disc a woman places into her vagina.
It should be left in the vagina at least 6 hours but no more
than 24 hours after intercourse. The diaphragm blocks a
man's semen from entering the cervix (the opening to the
womb). A spermicide placed onto the diaphragm kills sperm.
A diaphragm and the spermicide keep sperm from getting to
the egg. Among typical couples who initiate use of the
diaphragm, about 16 percent of women will experience an
accidental pregnancy in the first year. If the diaphragm is used
consistently and correctly, about 6 percent of women will
experience pregnancy. Use condoms as well as the diaphragm
for the most effective protection. Complete information
about this contraceptive is available through a family
planning association or clinician or through the package
insert accompanying a diaphragm.
 ADVANTAGES OF CHOOSING A DIAPHRAGM
• A diaphragm gives a woman fairly good control over
contraception.
• When used perfectly, only six women in 100
become pregnant the first year using a diaphragm.
• It can be put in up to several hours in advance of
sexual intercourse.
• Diaphragms are safe; there are no hormones and no
side effects from hormones.
• The penis can remain inside the vagina after
ejaculation.
 DISADVANTAGES OF CHOOSING A DIAPHRAGM
• A diaphragm does not provide adequate protection from HIV. Use condoms as well.
• The diaphragm must be fitted by a clinician.
• You must wash your hands with soap and water before putting a diaphragm in.
• Inserting the diaphragm may interrupt sex.
• A woman has to take it with her on vacations or trips.
• A diaphragm increases a woman's risk for urinary tract infections.
• It is difficult for some women to insert a diaphragm properly even after being
taught.
• If left in too long, it slightly increases a woman's risk for a very serious infection
called toxic shock syndrome. Don't leave a diaphragm in for more than 24 hours
after intercourse.
• It may slip out of place during sex. If you change who is on top, you may want to
check to see that the diaphragm is still covering the cervix.
• After putting it in, a woman should check to be sure it is covering the opening of the
cervix.
• A new fitting may be necessary after having a baby, abortion or miscarriage, or
gaining 15 pounds.
• It is not recommended that you use a diaphragm during menstruation.*
 FEMALE CONDOM
• Female condoms (previously known as Reality
Condoms) are made of a thin plastic called
polyurethane – NOT latex. The condom is placed into
the woman's vagina. It is open at one end and closed
at the other. Both ends have a flexible ring used to
keep the condom in the vagina. Among typical
women use of FC condoms, about 21 percent will
experience an accidental pregnancy in the first year. If
these condoms are used consistently and correctly,
about 5 percent of women will experience pregnancy.
Complete information about this contraceptive is
available through a clinician or through the package
insert.
 ADVANTAGES OF THE FEMALE CONDOM
• Female condoms give women more control and a sense
of freedom.
• A woman doesn't need to see a clinician to get it. No
prescription or fitting is needed.
• The condom can be put in several hours in advance of
sexual intimacy.
• It is safe and fairly effective at preventing both pregnancy
and infection.
• The inside of the condom is lubricated.
• It can be used by individuals who are allergic or sensitive
to latex.
• Polyurethane transmits heat well. This may make sex
more fun.
DISADVANTAGES OF THE FEMALE CONDOM
• This condom is large and some call it unattractive or odd
looking. Its size and unattractiveness may decrease
enjoyment of sex.
• The condom will not work if the man's penis slides in
outside of the female condom.
• It can make rustling noises prior to or during intercourse.
A lubricant may decrease noises.
• The condom takes practice to use it right. Some people
complain that it is hard to use.
• It is not available in as many stores as the male condom
and may be hard to find.
• The female condom is about three times more expensive
than male condoms.
 FERTILITY AWARENESS METHOD
• Fertility awareness is a means of understanding a woman's reproductive cycle by
observing and writing down fertility signs. These signs determine whether or not she can
become pregnant on a given day. A woman is actually fertile during only about a fourth of
her cycle. This method is a great way for a woman to learn more about her body, but it is
not recommended for teens.

What are the three primary fertility signs? They are a woman's temperature when she first
wakes up; her cervical fluid (the fluid at the mouth of a woman's womb); and the position
of her cervix. The fertility awareness method permits a woman to use this information so
that she may abstain from intercourse when she is most fertile. The failure rate among
women who use this method perfectly is two to three percent; while the failure rate
among most women who use this method is 13 to 20 percent.

Before Ovulation
Waking temperatures remain low.
Cervical fluid looks similar to raw egg white and becomes wet and then dry.
Cervix rises and becomes softer and open.
After Ovulation
Waking temperatures rise for 12 to 16 days.
Cervical fluid quickly dries up after ovulation.
Cervix quickly drops and becomes firm and closed after ovulation.
 ADVANTAGES OF THE FERTILITY AWARENESS
METHOD
• The fertility awareness or symptothermal method
helps a woman track and improve PMS
(premenstrual syndrome) symptoms.
• It empowers women with practical knowledge.
• The method helps a woman know when during her
cycle to have sex to become pregnant or to avoid
pregnancy, depending on her goal.
• It is useful in conjunction with other contraceptive
methods, such as barrier contraceptives (such as
condoms) and withdrawal.
 DISADVANTAGES OF THE FERTILITY AWARENESS
METHOD
• This method provides no protection against HIV and
other sexually transmitted infections.
• The method involves daily charting of fertility signs.
• It requires discipline for a number of days in the cycle if
a woman chooses to avoid sex rather than use a barrier
contraceptive during her fertile days.
• As a contraceptive, this method is unforgiving of
improper use. If a woman has sex when this method
tells her to abstain, she is very likely to become
pregnant.
• Abstinence is required at the time in a woman's cycle
when her sexual urge is usually at its peak.
 INJECTABLE CONTRACEPTIVES
The type of shot most used is called Depo-Provera. It is
a shot given every three months. It is a hormone,
much like the progesterone a woman produces during
the last two weeks of each monthly cycle. Injectables
stop the woman's ovaries from releasing an egg and
have other contraceptive effects. Among typical
couples who initiate use of injectables, about three
percent of women will experience an accidental
pregnancy in the first year. For the most effective
protection against sexually transmitted infections, use
condoms as well. Complete information about this
contraceptive is available through a family planning
clinic, local health department, or clinician.
 ADVANTAGES OF INJECTABLE CONTRACEPTIVES
• Nothing needs to be taken daily or at the time of sexual
intercourse.
• Injectables are extremely effective.
• Women lose less blood during menstruation when they are
using injectables and have less menstrual cramps.
• Privacy is a major advantage. No one has to know a woman
is using this method.
• Nursing mothers can receive injections; it is best to receive
after the baby is six weeks old.
• It is okay for a woman to start another contraceptive
method if it is less than 13 weeks since the last shot.
• Injectables may lead to improvement in PMS (premenstrual
symptoms), depression or symptoms from endometriosis.
 DISADVANTAGES OF INJECTABLE CONTRACEPTIVES
• Injectables do not protect you from HIV infection or other STIs. Use
condoms to reduce risk.
• Injections can lead to very irregular periods. If a woman's bleeding
pattern is bothersome, there are medications which can be given to
help have a more acceptable pattern of bleeding.
• Some women gain weight. To avoid weight gain, women should
watch their calorie intake and get lots of exercise.
• A woman has to return every three months for her injection.
• Depression and premenstrual symptoms may become worse.
• It may be a number of months before a woman's periods return to
normal after her last shot.
• Injectables may cause bone loss, especially in smokers. Women
should get regular exercise and consider taking extra calcium to
protect their bones from osteoporosis.
• Some women are allergic to injectables.
 INTRAUTERINE CONTRACEPTION
• An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small device which is
placed into the uterine cavity. There are two highly
effective intrauterine contraceptives available in the
United States: the Copper T IUD and the LNG-IUS.

IUDs are safe, relatively inexpensive, and provide

extremely effective long-term contraception.
Complete information about this contraceptive is
available through your clinician or the package insert
accompanying the IUD. Recent analysis shows that
use of IUDs carries no increased risk of reproductive
tract infections.
 COPPER T IUD

In the horizontal arms of the Copper T 380A

IUD there is some copper. The IUD slowly
gives off copper into the uterine cavity. This
does several things. Most importantly, it stops
sperm from making their way up through the
uterus. Among typical couples who initiate
use of this IUD, just less than 1% will
experience an accidental pregnancy in the
first year.
 ADVANTAGES OF THE COPPER T IUD
• The Copper T IUD is the second most effective
reversible method, rivaling surgical sterilization in
preventing pregnancy.
• The IUD is effective for at least 10 years.
• Only 2 of 100 women using a Copper T for 10 years
will become pregnant.
• Prevents ectopic pregnancies.
• Far more readily reversible than tubal sterilization
or vasectomy.
• Protects against endometrial cancer.
• Very low cost over time. Convenient. Safe. Private.
 DISADVANTAGES OF THE COPPER T IUD
• No protection against sexually transmitted infections.
Use condoms if there is any risk.
• There may be cramping, pain or spotting after insertion.
• The number of bleeding days is slightly higher than
normal and you could have somewhat increased
menstrual cramping. If your bleeding pattern is
bothersome to you, contact your clinician. There are
medications which may make you have a more
acceptable pattern of bleeding.
• High initial cost of insertion.
• Must be inserted by a doctor, nurse practitioner, nurse
midwife or physician's assistant.
• A small percentage of women are allergic to copper.
 LNG-IUS
The LNG-IUS contains some levonorgestrel in its
vertical arm. This hormone is a progestin much like
the progesterone a woman's ovaries produce each
monthly cycle. Each week the LNG-IUS gives off
about the same amount of levonorgestrel as a
woman gets when she takes one or two of the
minipills called Ovrette. The levonorgestrel causes
the cervical mucus to become thicker so sperm
cannot get to the egg. Among typical couples who
initiate use of the LNG-IUS, just one in 1,000 women
will experience an accidental pregnancy in the first
year.
 ADVANTAGES OF THE LNG-IUS
• The LNG-IUS is the most effective reversible method, rivaling
surgical sterilization in preventing pregnancy.
• It prevents ectopic pregnancies and pelvic inflammatory disease,
decreases menstrual cramping and dramatically decreases
menstrual blood loss (up to a 97 percent reduction in menstrual
blood loss in one study).
• It may be left in place for up to seven years.
• It is safe, inexpensive over time, and provides extremely effective
long-term contraception from a single decision.
• One of the costs of any contraceptive is the cost to you should
your contraceptive fail. Given the extremely low failure rate of
the LNG-IUS, a person using this method is far less likely to have
either the emotional and financial expenses associated with an
unintended pregnancy.
• Prevents ectopic pregnancies.
 DISADVANTAGES OF THE LNG-IUS
• It often changes the menstrual cycle. A woman has
more bleeding days than normal for the first few
months and less than normal after six to eight
months. If a woman finds that her bleeding pattern
is bothersome, she should contact a clinician.
Some medications may improve the pattern of
bleeding.
• This method provides no protection against
sexually transmitted infections. Use condoms
improve protection against sexually transmitted
infections.
• It has a high initial cost of insertion.
 CONTRACEPTIVE PATCH
The contraceptive patch is a lightweight, thin, flexible, beige-
colored patch. It has three layers: the outer, protective, polyester
layer; the medicated, adhesive layer; and a protective liner which
is removed prior to applying the patch. The patch can be applied
to the skin of the buttock, abdomen, upper torso (but not the
breasts), or the outside of the upper arm. Each patch lasts seven
days. Women replace the patch each week for three weeks, then
have a seven-day patch-free week, during which time they begin
their menstrual bleeding. During a year of typical use, eight
women will experience pregnancy; with perfect use, only three in
1,000 women will experience pregnancy. For protection against
sexually transmitted diseases, use condoms as well.

Complete information about the patch is available through a

clinician or the package insert accompanying this contraceptive
method.
ADVANTAGES OF CHOOSING THE CONTRACEPTIVE PATCH
• Used properly and consistently, the patch is highly
effective at preventing unintended pregnancy.
• It is easy to use, since it needs to be applied only once a
week. In addition, the user can easily verify that her
patch is still in place.
• It is rapidly reversible, should you decide that you wish
to conceive a child.
• Because the hormonal mechanisms of action are similar
to that of birth control pills, experts believe the patch
may provide many of the same advantages and non-
contraceptive health benefits of contraceptive pills,
although hard data about long-term health benefits may
not be available for decades.
 DISADVANTAGES OF CHOOSING THE CONTRACEPTIVE PATCH
• The patch provides no protection against HIV or sexually transmitted infections. For
protection against HIV or STIs, a woman should use condoms.
• Women must remember to change the patch once a week for three weeks and then to
resume the patch after seven patch-free days.
• It is difficult to hide and thus offers less privacy than many other contraceptive methods.
• The patch is expensive.
• The patch must be stored carefully in a clean, cool, dark place—not in a purse or the
glove compartment of a car.
• If a patch becomes dislodged and cannot be firmly reattached with ten seconds of
continuous pressure, then it must be removed and replaced.
• Women who use the patch are vulnerable to the same health issues that arise with birth
control pills, including increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Women who smoke
should not use the patch.
• The patch can cause skin irritation, redness, or rash.
• The patch can cause breast tenderness, vaginal spotting, and/or temporary interruption
of menses. These side effects usually disappear within the first two cycles of patch use.
• The patch is less effective in preventing pregnancy among women who weigh more than
198 pounds.
 THE RING
• The ring (NuvaRing) is a small, flexible device that a
woman inserts into her vagina once a month. She
leaves it in place for three weeks and takes it out for
the remaining week of her menstrual cycle. The ring
releases combined hormones (estrogen and
progestin) to protect against pregnancy. Although no
studies have yet been published, experts believe that
the ring will be as effective as the combined pill: out
of 100 typical couples who rely on the ring for
contraception, eight percent of women may
accidentally get pregnant. Among women who use
the ring perfectly, fewer than one percent should get
pregnancy.
 ADVANTAGES OF THE RING
• Must be inserted only once each month;
• Means you don’t have to do anything at the time of
sexual intercourse;
• Does not require fitting;
• Frequently causes more regular, lighter, and shorter
periods;
• Helps prevent menstrual cramping and premenstrual
symptoms as well as headaches and depression;
• May protect against medical problems such as
ectopic pregnancy, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID),
cysts, and cancer of the ovaries and of the uterus)
 DISADVANTAGES OF THE RING

• The ring does not provide any protection from STIs, including HIV. If there is
any risk of infection, always use a condom as well.
• You must remember to keep the ring in place for three weeks and then to
remove it three weeks to the day after you inserted it.
• You must remember to insert a new ring on the same day one week after you
removed the old ring.
• You must wash your hands with soap and water prior to inserting the ring.
• The ring could slip out. If it does, you must replace it within three hours.
• You must wrap the ring in foil and throw it in the trash. It may not be flushed.
• The ring may cause increased spotting, breast tenderness, nausea and
vomiting, and mood swings. These usually clear up within about three
months after beginning use of the ring.
• The ring may cause vaginal irritation or infection and increased vaginal
discharge.
• As with other forms of combined hormonal contraception, the ring slightly
increases your risk of blood clots, especially if you are 35 or older and smoke.
 THE SHIELD
The shield is a soft silicone cup with a loop to aid in
its removal. It fits snugly over the cervix and is used
with spermicidal jelly or cream. The shield and the
spermicide work together. The shield keeps sperm
from moving past the cervix; the spermicide prevents
sperm from moving toward the egg. Among 100
typical couples who use the shield, 15 women will
accidentally get pregnant within a year. [There are no
rates for perfect use.] Users can increase the
effectiveness of the shield by making sure the cervix
is covered and by using spermicide. For protection
against STIs, couples should also use condoms.
 ADVANTAGES OF THE SHIELD
• Can be used by women who are
breastfeeding;
• Can be easily carried in a pocket or a purse;
• Cannot usually be felt by either partner;
• Is immediately effective;
• Is immediately reversible;
• Has no effect on your natural hormones;
• Can be inserted several hours ahead of time.
 DISADVANTAGES OF THE SHIELD
• It provides no protection against HIV and other STIs. Frequent
daily use of spermicides containing nonoxynol-9 can irritate the
vagina, increasing your risk for HIV and some other STIs. Use a
latex condom to reduce the risk of infection.
• You must visit a clinician or clinic to get a prescription for a shield.
• It can be difficult to insert properly and may sometimes be
difficult to remove.
• It may be pushed out of place during sexual activity.
• It causes some women pain or discomfort.
• Some women are allergic to silicone. Some women or their
partners are allergic to spermicide.
• You may not be able to use the shield if you have frequent urinary
tract infections or if you have a reproductive tract infection.
• You must not use the shield during your period.
 WITHDRAWAL
• When a man senses that he is about to ejaculate (come), he pulls
his penis out of the vagina or anus. He then ejaculates outside of
his partner. It works best if the couple has talked about it and has
agreed in advance to use this method.  It also should be practiced if
no other contraceptive method is available.  However, withdrawal
does not provide adequate protection against HIV and STIs, so use
condoms if there is even a slight chance of HIV or STI transmission.
• Among typical heterosexual couples who initiate use of withdrawal,
about 18 percent of women will experience an accidental
pregnancy in the first year. If withdrawal is used consistently and
correctly, about 4 percent of women will become pregnant. 
• Using condoms during anal intercourse is strongly recommended to
reduce the chance of transmitting HIV or other STIs. If condoms are
not used during anal sex, withdrawal before orgasm may reduce
the risk of HIV transmission. Withdrawal does not offer protection
from STIs that can be transmitted by skin-to-skin contact.
 ADVANTAGES OF WITHDRAWAL

• When used consistently and correctly, withdrawal

can be effective at reducing the risk of pregnancy.
• No fluid or much less fluid is deposited in the vagina
or anus. This means that there is somewhat less
chance of HIV or other STI infection spreading from
partner to partner.
• Withdrawal has no medical complications, no
hormones, no supplies, and is free.
• It is always available.
 DISADVANTAGES OF WITHDRAWAL

• It provides poor to no protection

against STIs, including HIV.
• It can be difficult to pull out in time.
• For withdrawal to be effective against
pregnancy, the man must ejaculate
far from the woman’s vagina.