Over-the-counter birth control

Alternative Names:

Birth control available over-the-counter; Over-the-counter contraceptives

Information:

Contraceptive (birth control) techniques are used during sexual contact if you with to avoid pregnancy or if you are concerned about transmitting or becoming infected with a sexually transmitted disease (STD).

A number of birth control methods and devices can effectively prevent pregnancy. Some of these same devices can reduce the transmission of STDs. Many of them can be purchased over-the-counter or, in other words, without a doctor's prescription. Most drug stores carry a wide selection, available to anyone who wishes to purchase them.

No long-term side effects are associated with these devices. On occasion, irritation of the vagina or penis or an allergic reaction may occur, but these can usually be alleviated by discontinuing that particular method or by changing brand names.

OVER-THE-COUNTER FORMS OF BIRTH CONTROL

Condoms-Thin sheaths (preferably latex which also protects against transmission of disease-causing organisms, including HIV) placed on the penis or, in the case of the female condom, within the vagina, prior to intercourse. Semen is collected inside the condom, which must be kept in place throughout intercourse and then carefully removed after ejaculation. Condoms are readily available at low cost in most drug and grocery stores. Some family planning clinics offer free condoms. About 15 pregnancies occur over one year out of 100 couples using this method. Effectiveness increases when a spermicide is also used.
Vaginal spermicides-Sperm-killing chemical jellies, foams, creams, or suppositories, inserted into the vagina prior to intercourse. All forms can be purchased in most drug and grocery stores. Used by itself, this method is not very effective. About 20 pregnancies occur over one year out of 100 women using spermicides alone. The use of a spermicide along with a condom is extremely effective against pregnancy and is more effective against STD transmission than either method used separately.
Vaginal contraceptive sponge-Soft synthetic sponges saturated with a spermicide. Prior to intercourse, the sponge is moistened, inserted into the vagina, and placed over the cervix. It is quite similar to the diaphragm (which must be obtained from a doctor) as a barrier mechanism. After intercourse, the sponge should be left in place for 6 to 8 hours. This method is available without a prescription in most drug and grocery stores. About 18 to 28 pregnancies occur over one year for every 100 women using this method. The sponge may be more effective in women who have not previously delivered a baby.

Although over-the-counter methods are not quite as effective against pregnancy as some prescription methods, they are more effective against STDs than anything other than abstinence. They offer people ways to protect themselves against pregnancies and STDs without having to spend a lot of money, wait for a doctor's appointment, or deal with long term side effects.

Review Date: 11/30/2001
Reviewed By: Catherine S. Bradley, M.D., Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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