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Safe Sex:
Know how to protect yourself...
Boy: Baby girl, you look good! I want you right now.
CHECK YOUR OPTIONS
Girl: I want you too, boo.
Boy: So let's do it. I've been waiting for so long to touch you. I can't wait any longer.
Girl: Do you have any condoms?
Boy: No, but you don't have to worry about that. I've never gotten anyone pregnant. Come on baby, I'll pull out.
Girl: Well…???I'm sure all girls at some point in their lives have been in this situation [sing it, sister - Chris]. You and your man are horny as hell, and you both want some, but you either don't have any rubbers, or you haven't taken any necessary precautions for birth control. Basically, you are both relying on blind luck that you won't get pregnant or contract an STD.
Listen to me: IT'S BETTER TO BE SAFE THAN SORRY!!!
Check out a couple of methods that will keep you satisfied and safe.
Condoms
Condoms are a good choice for protection, since they deter fluids from mixing when two people are having sex. They are 97% effective in preventing pregnancy and in protecting against sexually transmitted diseases. They come in a variety of colours, styles and flavours. However, you cannot use oil-based lubricants such as Vaseline, whipped cream or Crisco with latex condoms. They put holes in condoms in just a few seconds. So, no freaky stuff!!!For more information, visit Health Canada or Planned Parenthood of America.
Birth Control Pill
One of the safest methods of birth control. It is easy to use (take one pill daily) and it is 99.9% effective. If you are really nervous about getting pregnant, try the condom and pill combo for extra protection.For more information, visit CNN's Health Library.
Depo-Provera
Depo-Provera is an injectable form of birth control that must be taken every 10-13 weeks (about four times a year). This type of contraception contains one synthetic hormone (progestin) that tells the brain not to release an egg once a month. It also makes the mucus in your cervix thicker, making it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg. The injection can be delivered into your upper arm, buttocks or thigh by a family doctor or gynecologist.For more information, visit the Depo Provera official website.
Sponge
The sponge is a soft foam device that contains spermicides that can only be used at the time of intercourse. It is effective for up to twelve hours, which means that you can have all the SEX that you want within a 12-hour period. It does not have to be fitted by a doctor, and it is easy to insert. Sponges should always be used with a condom to ensure maximum protection. Using them on their own is not recommended.For more information, visit My Pleasure.
Diaphragm
This latex ring fits into the vagina and blocks sperm from reaching the cervix, preventing sperm from entering the uterus. It must be fitted properly, customized to your body. Read: You cannot use someone else's diaphragm. It is also reusable and can be used for up to two years.For more information, visit Kids Health or My Pleasure.
ECP (a.k.a The Morning After Pill)
This pill is taken when no birth control methods were used, or when you might have had an "accident" (i.e. condom slipped/broke). It can be taken with three days after unprotected sex, and it will reduce the chance that you will become pregnant. Some women who take this pill might suffer from side effects such as nausea and headaches. This is not a form of birth control, so it is best to find which birth control suits your needs.For more information, visit Net Doctor or Sexuality And U.
Remember to always get a check up at least every six months, even if you are not sexually active at the moment or under the age of 18. Gynecologist check ups are crucial for detecting breast cancer, cervical cancer, and other diseases. If you plan to take the birth control pill, Depo-Provera, or ECP, talk to your doctor first to make sure you are compatible with these birth control methods, as they come with many side effects and are not recommended for women over the age of 35. ¤ Michelle