Combination Pill
This birth control mainstay is 99% effective against pregnancy when taken around the same time every day. It's also known for easing hot flashes and restoring regular periods.
Who should avoid it? Smokers and those 35 or older. The estrogen may cause dangerous blood clots. If you suffer from migrains you should use a different kind because it may trigger the painful headaches.
Who should avoid it? Smokers and those 35 or older. The estrogen may cause dangerous blood clots. If you suffer from migrains you should use a different kind because it may trigger the painful headaches.
Progestin-Only Pill
Known as the mini pill, progestin-only pills don't contain estrogen. They are safer for smokers, diabetics, and heart disease patients, as well as those at risk for blood clots. They also won't reduce the milk supply for women who are breast-feeding. Who should avoid it? If you have trouble remembering to take your pill at the same time every day, progestin-only pills might not be best for you. They need to be taken at exactly the same time every day; if you're more than three hours late, plan on using a backup method.
Extended Cycle Pill
These pills prevent pregnancy and allow you to have a period only every three months. Who should avoid it? There's no evidence proving it's dangerous not to have periods, but there is still no research to show that it is safe.
Vaginal Ring
he ring is made of flexible plastic and delivers estrogen and progestin, just like the combination pill. You place the ring in your vagina for three weeks, and then remove it for one week so that you have a regular period. Who should avoid it? Women who smoke,have blood clots, or certain cancers.
Female Condom
The female condom is made of polyurethane, or soft plastic, and protects against STDs. It is inserted deep into the vagina, over the cervix, much like a diaphragm. Unlike the male condom, the female condom can be put into place up to eight hours before sex. Who should avoid it? Male condoms offer more protection , both against STDs and pregnancy, than female condoms, so if you and your male partner aren't in a long-term, relationship, female condoms are not a good idea..