Do I Need Birth Control?

Women who choose not to use any birth control and are sexually active are putting themselves at high risk of having an unintended pregnancy. If you’re not ready for motherhood, then the question isn’t do you need birth control -- but what kind you should be using. The good news is that in this day and age, you have many options to choose from. So you can find one that’s right for your lifestyle. The important thing is you pick one you will use -- every time. We recommend you consider a long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC).

What Are The Options?

Birth control options vary as to effectiveness, convenience and cost. Start by asking yourself how an unintended pregnancy would affect your life. Your answer can help point you in the right direction of choosing a birth control method. Some are low cost and available over-the-counter at your local pharmacy.  Others include a new generation of long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC) and other options available through your healthcare provider. To be safe, always talk to your doctor or a family planning provider before beginning any contraceptive. If you’d like to take a look at your birth control options, click here.

How Do I Talk To My Partner About It?

Talking about birth control can be difficult. But if you’re in a serious relationship, it’s important to make these decisions together. (If you feel you can’t talk to your partner about it, you might want to rethink if you’re ready for sex with that person.) First, find out about the different methods available. Second, plan out what you want to say. Practice your opening lines out loud so you feel comfortable. Third, plan a time and place where you can have privacy. Maybe while taking a walk together. Lastly, be sure to talk about why birth control is important. Ask him or her for their opinion. Just be clear that you will not have sex without using contraception.

What Is Family Planning?

If you’re ready to be a parent, having a child is a wonderful experience. But if the pregnancy is unintended, it will have a permanent impact on the direction your life takes. Family planning is where couples use contraceptives to “take control” -- so they can plan for when to have children. And how many. An option to consider is long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC).

Where Can I Get Birth Control Services?

Besides your private doctor, there are free or low-cost clinics that provide family planning services. These are for all women and their partners, regardless of income level. Their goal is to empower you to prevent pregnancies until you’re ready, so you don’t have to face the tough choices of an unintended pregnancy. Click here to find a clinic near you.

What Can I Expect At My Appointment?

Family planning clinics vary from one another. What is common about them all is that they offer affordable women's health care services.  And, the health care professionals who work in these clinics are there to help and support you every step of the way.  Overall they are very much like a private doctor’s office. 

In most cases, you will first meet with a health care professional to discuss what brought you to the clinic. If you are interested in birth control, the health care professional will discuss the options available. Depending on your choice for contraception, you may need to have a pelvic exam.

For more information, please contact your local family planning clinic.