What are dental dams? The dental dam is a square piece of rubber that is used by dentists during oral surgery and other procedures. According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, it is not a method of birth control. But it can be used to help protect people from STDs, including HIV, during oral and anal sex. It is placed over the opening to the vagina … [Read more...] about Birth Control Methods – What are dental dams?
Sex
Birth Control Methods – Will birth control pills protect us from HIV?
Will birth control pills protect us from HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, and other STDs? Some people are misled to believe that if they take birth control pills, they are protecting themselves not only from getting pregnant but also from infection with HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, … [Read more...] about Birth Control Methods – Will birth control pills protect us from HIV?
Birth Control Methods – Is the Pill safe?
Everyone we know is on the pill. Is it safe? Today’s pills are known to have lower doses of hormones than earlier birth control pills. According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, this has greatly lowered the risk of side effects; however, there are both benefits and risks with taking birth control pills. Benefits include having more regular and … [Read more...] about Birth Control Methods – Is the Pill safe?
Birth Control Methods – How effective is withdrawal?
How effective is withdrawal as a birth control method? According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, withdrawal is not the most effective birth control method. It works much better when a male condom is used. Withdrawal is when a man takes his penis out of a woman’s vagina (or “pulls out”) before he ejaculates, or has an orgasm. This stops the … [Read more...] about Birth Control Methods – How effective is withdrawal?
Birth Control Methods – Are there any foams or gels?
Are there any foams or gels that my spouse can use to keep from getting pregnant? Spermicides are readily available for purchase in drug stores. They work by killing sperm and come in several forms – foam, gel, cream, film, suppository, or tablet. They are inserted or placed in the vagina no more than one hour before intercourse. According to the U.S. … [Read more...] about Birth Control Methods – Are there any foams or gels?