The cervical cap or contraceptive cap is a barrier method of birth control. It is a small silicone cup that is inserted into the vagina in order to prevent pregnancy. A suction mechanism allows the cap to sit over the cervix, blocking sperm from entering the uterus and preventing fertilization. For people with vaginas who…
Tag: Pregnancy
Tips for Educators on Avoiding Teen Pregnancy
Teens and young adults often face many problems as they develop into sexually mature adults. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists teen pregnancy prevention as one of its top seven priorities.1 In 2015, the CDC reported a female adolescent fertility rate of 21.2 births per 1000 females ages 15-19 in the United…
Birth Control Pill Overview
Birth control pills are one of the most effective contraceptive methods for preventing pregnancy. Commonly referred to as “The Pill,” this type of birth control comes in a variety of forms and can be taken in a variety of different ways depending on the method that works best for the individual. There are two main types of…
After an Abortion
Disclaimer: Throughout this article, we will be using the term “woman” to describe biological females who can become pregnant. We understand that sex and gender are separate, but for the sake of simplicity and consistency, these are the terms we will be using. If you would like to learn more about gender identity, visit our…
Intrauterine Device (IUD)
The IUD is a highly effective, long lasting form of birth control. The two different types, the hormonal IUD and the copper IUD, function in different ways, resulting in differing advantages and disadvantages. The IUD must be inserted by a trained health care professional, and it does not prevent against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). What Is…
Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECPs)
The emergency contraceptive pill (ECP), more commonly known as Plan B or “the morning-after pill,” can be used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or the failure of a primary birth control method. The name “morning after” is misleading: it can (and should) be taken sooner than the morning after or a few days after intercourse. The…
Sex Education Within Schools
Opinions regarding what constitutes an effective and appropriate sex education vary between countries, nations, cultures, and even among families. The sex education curriculum of any given society typically reflects the dominant cultural values and norms of the greater community. There has yet to be a nation today to achieve comprehensive standards. In past decades, “abstinence-only” sex education programs…
Progestin-Only Pills
The progestin-only pill, also known as the “mini-pill,” is a type of oral contraceptive or oral birth control pill. The pill contains the hormone progestin and, unlike the combination pill, does not contain estrogen. Due to the lack of estrogen, many users report feeling fewer or no side effects compared to other oral contraceptives. One…
Diaphragm
The diaphragm, a shallow silicone cap, is a barrier method of birth control for people with vulvas. Inserted deep within the vagina, the diaphragm creates a seal against the cervix to prevent sperm from entering the uterus.1 Spermicidal foam, cream, or jelly is applied onto the diaphragm before insertion to immobilize and kill sperm before…