Contraception
What is Contraception?
Contraceprion is a birth control by the use of devices (diaphragm or intrauterine device or condom) or drugs or surgery.Contraception or birth control is the term used for the prevention of pregnancy. There are numerous methods to prevent a pregnancy: 'coitus interruptus' (withdrawal), the use of hormone medications, contraceptive devices (barriers), periods of avoiding sex and surgery. However, these methods are not all equally reliable.
It is important to note that no birth control method fully protects you against HIV infection or other sexually transmissable diseases.
Contraceptive methods can be very reliable for preventing you from becoming pregnant, but this does not necessarily mean that they give you protection against HIV infection or other sexually transmitted diseases. The following methods provide NO PROTECTION against HIV-infection: the calendar method, intra-uterine devices, the birth control pill and other hormonal methods of contraception. Coitus interruptus (withdrawal) is unreliable, both towards prevention of pregnancy and HIV infection.
The only contraceptive method offering protection against HIV is the condom, when used in a correct way.
Contraception helps women plan if and when they want to have a baby. The condom is the only current contraception device that helps protect sexual partners from STIs (sexually transmitted infections).
Which contraception you choose may be based on:
- your physical health
- the type of relationship you're in
- your cultural background
- your values and beliefs
- what is available where you live.
