Birth Control

Emergency contraceptive

Irrespective of age, if you don't want to have a baby right now, choose a birth control method that's right for you.

Birth control: which option is best for you?

If you're reviewing your birth control options for the first time or you need to re-evaluate your choices, there are many methods to consider.

In addition to preventing unwanted pregnancy, oral contraceptives (birth control pills) can be prescribed for treating a range of symptoms or conditions including menstrual irregularity, acne, endometriosis, and symptoms of perimenopause.

If you have certain health risks some birth control methods may not be right for you.  For example, combination (estrogen and progestin) pills, patches or rings are not recommended for women over 35 who smoke.  Other conditions which may affect your choices include having migraines, heart disease, high blood pressure, blood clots, or diabetes.

Schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss any questions or concerns you may have about the birth control you are using or may be considering.

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Options for permanent protection

Tubal ligation (for women) and vasectomy (for men) provide permanent protection against pregnancy but should only be considered by people who are absolutely sure that they do not want any (or any more) children.

Emergency contraceptive pills: a birth control backup

Emergency contraception (the "morning-after pill") contains the same hormones found in many birth control pills, but in larger doses. They can be used to prevent a pregnancy if taken properly within 72 hours after having unprotected sex, or if the birth control method fails (for example, if the condom breaks or you've forgotten to take your birth control pills).  You may also need to take more tablets 12 hours later.

The sooner you take emergency contraceptive pills, the more effective they are in preventing pregnancy.

If you are already pregnant, emergency contraception cannot terminate the pregnancy.

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