There are different kinds of birth control and some are available without a prescription (“over the counter,” often called OTC). Others require a prescription from a health care provider.

Non-Prescription Methods
Non-prescription contraceptives are available at drugstores, supermarkets, superstores, and even some discount stores. They are usually located in the “feminine hygiene” section. Anyone can buy them, regardless of age. Parents do not need to give permission. Condoms are the best-known birth control in this category. They work very well at preventing pregnancy if they are used 100 percent of the time. This means putting them on before there is any contact between the penis and vagina and holding onto the condom when the male withdraws, so no sperm can leak out. The advantage of condoms is that they are also pretty effective against most STDs. Condoms can be made out of several materials. They come in many different styles, as well. (They also come in different sizes, but any size is large enough for all men.) Latex condoms are best, unless you’re one of those rare persons who are allergic to latex. Condoms are considerably more effective if they are used together with a spermicide, and we recommend always using them together. Spermicides are usually stocked right next to condoms. They come in capsule, gel, and foam forms. These are inserted inside the vagina using an applicator similar to a tampon applicator. There are also small, thin squares of “film” that dissolve when they are inserted into the vagina. Small round “sponges” for vaginal insertion will probably become available in 2005; they provide pregnancy protection for 24 hours. Remember, though, spermicides should always be used with a condom, both to increase their effectiveness at pregnancy prevention and to provide protection against most STDs.

Prescription Methods
The other methods of birth control do require a prescription. The ones that are most popular and most appropriate for teens include combined oral contraceptives, the birth control “shot,” and the contraceptive “patch.” Each of these methods contains at least one of the two types of female hormones, estrogen and progestin. As contraceptives, these hormones can prevent ovulation, alter the lining of the uterus, keep sperm from reaching ovum (eggs), and/or act in other ways. As with all medications, hormonal contraceptives have risks, benefits, contraindications and side effects. Be sure to discuss these with your health care provider.

Birth control pills (BCP) – This is the most popular method for teenagers and young adult women. They have been used by millions of women for more than 30 years. Except in special cases, birth control pills contain both estrogen and progestin. Taken correctly, they are 99 percent effective in preventing pregnancy. You have to take one tablet every day, preferably at the same time each day. This means you need to be organized and have a good memory (though your provider will give you some tips about how to remember to take the pill). BCP's give you very regular periods. They also can reduce pain from menstrual cramps and improvement of acne.

With most oral contraceptives, women have a period once a month. A new brand called Seasonale® is taken so that periods occur only once every three months.

Depo-Provera® birth control shot -- This is one of the most effective birth control methods. The shot, Depo-Provera®, contains a type of female hormone called a progestin. The hormone preparation is released over three months. It is injected into the upper arm or buttocks. The idea of a "shot" may gave you the jitters, but it is actually a very quick, simple and almost painless injection given at the doctor's office or clinic. There are unanswered questions about the effects of the shot on bones (click here for more information). Discuss bone strength with your doctor if you are considering this birth control method.

Two other injectable contraceptives used to be available in the United States. They have been withdrawn from the market. One was a monthly birth control shot called Lunelle®. The other, Norplant®, consisted of tiny plastic rods inserted underneath the skin. The rods slowly released the hormone progestin for more than five years. Another implantable contraceptive, Implanon®, may be available soon. It is a single rod that provides up to three years of protection from pregnancy.

The contraceptive “patch” – This small (2 inches square) adhesive patch is worn underneath your clothing, most commonly on the lower abdomen or buttocks. It dispenses a small amount of hormone for a week. The contraceptive patch is worn for 3 weeks out of every 4; it needs to be changed weekly. Click here for more information.

The contraceptive “ring” -- The NuvaRing® is a hormonal contraceptive that you insert into the vagina. Pelvic muscles hold it in place where it can’t be felt. The “ring” is about 2 inches in diameter and is made of thin, flexible plastic. The ring releases estrogen and progestin for 3 weeks. Then you remove it, and replace it with a new ring 7 days later. The contraceptive effect remains during the 7 days without a ring.

Other kinds of prescription birth control include the diaphragm, the cervical cap, and the intrauterine device (IUD). These are generally unpopular with and/or inappropriate for teens. If you think one of them might be right for you, ask your doctor’s advice.

Many doctors and community and family planning clinics, including Planned Parenthood, will provide confidential birth control to teenagers. Often the contraceptive is dispensed onsite. If you are given a prescription, you can get it filled on your own, without the presence or notification of a parent. (Some state laws may change but the provider who gives you the prescription will explain what you need to know in that case).

What's the Best Kind?
The "best" kind of birth control is the one that you'll use the most reliably. Below is general information about birth control methods (other than abstinence).

Condoms are convenient, inexpensive and protect you from most STDs, but you need to use them every time you have sex, so you have to plan ahead and know when you might have sex.

Other methods are more effective than condoms in preventing pregnancy. Birth control pills are nearly 100 percent effective against pregnancy, but must be taken every day whether or not you have sex. If you can't remember to take medicine every day, they probably wouldn't be the best choice. Injectable contraceptives have the advantage that they are nearly 100 percent effective against pregnancy and last a longer time so you don't need to take something every day. The patch is a very reliable method that doesn’t require you to take an action every day.

Condoms are the only birth control method that provides good protection against STDs. If you choose to have sex, always use a condom in addition to your other form of birth control.

Prescription birth control methods can also have side effects that the doctor or clinic will explain to you. However, all methods are safer than the medical risks of pregnancy.

You've heard this before and now once again: the only way to guarantee not contracting an STD or becoming pregnant is to practice abstinence (not having sex).

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