Deepi Brar
CONSUMER HEALTH INTERACTIVE

Birth control choices change all the time, so every now and then it's a good idea to see if there's a better option out there for you. As you grow older and your lifestyle changes, you may also find that your priorities have shifted. Different qualities in a birth control method -- like effectiveness in preventing pregnancy or STDs, health risks, cost, and ease of use -- might now be more or less important to you than before.

Since there are more contraceptive choices for women, this tool is designed primarily with women in mind. Although men may find it helpful for exploring their options, if you're a man in a committed relationship, it would be best for your partner to try this tool before you decide on a method. That way, you can explore the full range of options available to you as a couple. The selections are meant to prevent pregnancy on an ongoing basis; emergency contraception and pregnancy termination are not discussed.

Instructions: Please answer these questions and hit "submit."

Your sex:
female male

Would you like to have a baby in the future?
yes no

Do you have a sexual relationship with more than one person, or do you ever have sex with a partner who may have (or may be at risk for) a sexually transmitted disease?
yes no

(Note: This tool is designed to inform you of the different methods of contraception, and help you narrow your choices. It's not intended as a substitute for an in-depth discussion with your doctor -- you should always discuss potential options with your health-care provider to figure out what will work best for you. Each birth control method has its own range of side effects, and it's beyond the scope of this tool to take your full medical history into account. Keep in mind that some "best options" may turn out to be unsuitable for you. On the other hand, it's possible that some "not recommended" options could work for you in some cases.)

Last updated May 19, 2004

Copyright © 2002 Consumer Health Interactive, a CVS Caremark Company