G-Spot: Contraception, birth control, and sexual health

Throughout our entire lives, we learn about the various forms of contraception and birth control, but what these lessons often fail to do is explore the ins and outs of each method available to us. While most birth control methods listed in this article pertain to people with a vulva, there are some tips and tricks on how all couples can use condoms and other methods to protect against pregnancy and/or STD’s. Let’s go over some of these methods and what you need to know to pick the right type of birth control for you. 

Birth control and contraceptives come in four categories; implant, scheduled use, every time use, and permanent. Implants are one of the most effective, but are on the costly side, ranging from $0 to $1300 (depending on insurance). 

There are two types of implant birth control; the birth control implant (Nexplanon), and an IUD (Intrauterine Device). Birth control implants last up to five years and require a nurse or doctor to insert the implant into one’s arm, while an IUD lasts anywhere from three to 12 years and is inserted into one’s cervix. Both are 99% effective in preventing unwanted pregnancy, have less to no hormones, and help with periods, but do not protect against STDs (sexually transmitted diseases). 

Scheduled-use birth control is also an option for those not wanting an implant birth control. This includes a birth control shot, patch, pill, or ring. Scheduled-use birth control requires the person taking it to remember to replace or. take the method on schedule and will become less effective if scheduled use is disrupted. Scheduled-use birth control also does not protect against STDs. 

The birth control shot (Depo-Provera) is administered by a medical professional, or oneself, every three months. The shot is 94% effective, can cost up to $150, and is estrogen-free. The birth control ring (NuvaRing) is a small ring inserted into the vagina that releases hormones into the body to prevent pregnancy. The ring needs to be replaced every month, can cost up to $200, and is 91% effective. 

Birth control patches (transdermal contraceptive patch) is a patch applied to the skin and replaced every week and releases hormones into the skin to prevent pregnancy. The patch is 91% effective and costs up to $150.

Birth c ontrol pills are one of the most common types of contraceptives and is a daily pill taken orally. One of the more affordable methods, birth control pills work by releasing hormones to stop pregnancy. The pill is 91% effective and can cost up to $50.  

The next type of contraceptives is used every time you and your partner have sex. This includes condoms, spermicide and gels, sponges, and cervical caps. These are not as effective as the methods above but are some of the best ways to protect against STDs. 

Condoms and internal condoms are the only forms of birth control that also prevent STDs, and are completely hormone free. Condoms are 85% effective with proper use and cost around two dollars. Internal condoms are 79% effective and cost around three dollars.

It is recommended that for both pregnancy prevention and STD protection, one uses an implant or scheduled use birth control along with condoms. However, with regular STD testing, it is safe to have sex without a condom as long as you use some form of birth control correctly. You can get tested for STDs at the SUNY Geneseo Center for Sexual Health and Services.