An Overview of Birth Control

What Is Birth Control? The term “birth control” refers to a broad spectrum of methods that partners engaging in sexual activity use to prevent pregnancy. The most common types of birth control are hormonal methods, barrier methods, surgical procedures, withdrawal, and abstinence. In the United States, over 40% of women are using some form of…

Hormonal Contraceptive Methods

Hormones are chemical messengers found in the body. In the reproductive systems of people with vulvas, they regulate everything from libido to the menstrual cycle. In addition, synthetic hormones can be administered to people with vulvas who have natural hormonal imbalances, though they are primarily used as a form of contraception, or birth control.1 Hormones…

The Contraceptive Patch

What Is the Contraceptive Patch? The contraceptive patch (also known as birth control patch) is a waterproof, thin, beige, plastic patch that is applied to the skin to prevent pregnancy.1 The patch can be worn on the lower abdomen, buttocks, or upper body.2 A new patch is placed on the skin once a week for…

Effects of Drugs Taken During Pregnancy

Disclaimer: We acknowledge that not all pregnant females will remain the mother of the child and that not all mothers may have biologically given birth to their child. In this article, we use the term “mother” for the sake of simplicity and consistency. Expecting mothers and fathers often feel worried about whether or not their child will be healthy. Some of the major factors currently posing…