QUESTIONS ABOUT CONTRACEPTION AND ABORTION: WHERE CAN YOU GET BIRTH CONTROL? HOW DO PEOPLE DECIDE WHICH METHOD TO USE?
As we explained earlier, methods such as the condom, the contraceptive sponge, spermicides and the cap and diaphragm (providing the woman knows her size) can be purchased at the chemist without a doctor’s prescription; however, other methods require a doctor’s prescription. All methods can be obtained free from any family planning clinic and from most GPs. Many family planning clinics have special youth advisory sessions to help young people learn about and obtain contraception. Young people can also attend one of the many Brook Advisory Centres.
How do people decide which method to use?
The method a couple chooses will depend on many factors, including personal preference, the woman’s health, her age, the couple’s relationship (that is, whether they just want to ’space’ pregnancies or absolutely don’t want to become pregnant), and feelings about the issues of safety, effectiveness and convenience. Most people use many different methods over the course of their lives.
Many young people begin by using a condom. The condom has the advantage of being easy to obtain and can protect against AIDS and other STDs. Later, they may switch to one of the methods that require a doctor’s prescription. Some couples prefer methods such as the IUD or pill because they don’t like to interrupt their love-making by having to use the barrier methods or spermicides. Women who don’t have intercourse very often may choose a barrier method rather than the pill, which must be taken regularly, or an IUD, which is in place constantly. The female barrier methods also have the added advantage of providing some protection against some sexually transmitted diseases. Women who are concerned about safety and side effects of methods like the pill or IUD may choose the safer barrier methods. Men or women who have completed their families may choose sterilization. Choosing a method involves weighing the relative effectiveness, convenience and safety of each method. It helps to become fully informed about all available methods before making a choice.
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