ALL PROTECTION
this includes barrier methods and others
PROTECTION AGAINST STIS
Condoms
Condoms are the only form of contraception that protect against most STIs as well as preventing pregnancy. They’re hormone free, can be used on demand and will easily fit into a purse or pocket. They also come in 2 different types – external (rolled onto an erect penis before sex) and internal (placed inside the vagina right before sex).
Condoms come in a range of shapes, sizes, colours, textures, and flavours, so it can be fun to try different types and brands until you figure out your favourite. You can buy them easily in grocery stores or pharmacies!
When used correctly, condoms are 82% to 98% effective in preventing pregnancy and can be used alongside other contraceptive methods for extra protection.
Choosing the right size of condom is super important! A condom that is too big will probably slip out during sex. A condom that is too small can rip, and can be really uncomfortable! It's like the porridge for the Goldilock bears -- not too big, not too small, just right.
Condoms come in a range of shapes, sizes, colours, textures, and flavours, so it can be fun to try different types and brands until you figure out your favourite. You can buy them easily in grocery stores or pharmacies!
When used correctly, condoms are 82% to 98% effective in preventing pregnancy and can be used alongside other contraceptive methods for extra protection.
Choosing the right size of condom is super important! A condom that is too big will probably slip out during sex. A condom that is too small can rip, and can be really uncomfortable! It's like the porridge for the Goldilock bears -- not too big, not too small, just right.
Measuring for Fit
When measuring for a condom, the girth (thickness) is the most important measurement.
Using a string, wrap around the thickest part of your penis. Mark where the string crosses the other side and lay it flat on a ruler. Write the number down and check the table below.
Using a string, wrap around the thickest part of your penis. Mark where the string crosses the other side and lay it flat on a ruler. Write the number down and check the table below.
Most people should not have trouble finding a condom that fits. Condoms are usually longer than they need to be. If a person finds that there is too much roll at the base, they may need a snugger fit. If there is no roll left, they will require a larger condom.
There are a few different types of condom:
Latex condoms are very flexible and thin, and probably the most common out there. Latex is an effective barrier against sperm, bacteria, and viruses. However, latex does not transfer heat, which can reduce pleasurable sensations.
Like we said before -- do not use oil or oil-based lubricants with a latex condom. Oils will break down latex, which may cause the condom to tear. Water- or silicone-based lubricants are the best options when using a latex condom.
Polyurethane condoms are made of plastic. They are usually thinner than latex condoms, and they are better at transferring heat. They also provide effective barriers against HIV and bacterial STDs. However, polyurethane is less flexible than latex, making the condom more fragile.
Polyisoprene is very similar to latex, but it doesn't have the proteins that can sometimes cause allergic reactions. These condoms are slightly thicker than polyurethane, but they are softer and feel more natural than latex.
Lambskin condoms do not contain lamb’s skin. Instead, the cecum, a part of the intestine of the lamb, is the main constituent. The cecum is thin, durable, and good at transferring heat. Unfortunately, lambskin condoms don't protect against STIs or HIV.
There are a few different types of condom:
Latex condoms are very flexible and thin, and probably the most common out there. Latex is an effective barrier against sperm, bacteria, and viruses. However, latex does not transfer heat, which can reduce pleasurable sensations.
Like we said before -- do not use oil or oil-based lubricants with a latex condom. Oils will break down latex, which may cause the condom to tear. Water- or silicone-based lubricants are the best options when using a latex condom.
Polyurethane condoms are made of plastic. They are usually thinner than latex condoms, and they are better at transferring heat. They also provide effective barriers against HIV and bacterial STDs. However, polyurethane is less flexible than latex, making the condom more fragile.
Polyisoprene is very similar to latex, but it doesn't have the proteins that can sometimes cause allergic reactions. These condoms are slightly thicker than polyurethane, but they are softer and feel more natural than latex.
Lambskin condoms do not contain lamb’s skin. Instead, the cecum, a part of the intestine of the lamb, is the main constituent. The cecum is thin, durable, and good at transferring heat. Unfortunately, lambskin condoms don't protect against STIs or HIV.
RULES OF CONDOM USAGE
- Check the expiration date on the package. A condom past its expiry date is less effective and more likely to break.
- Make sure the condom is still intact. Condoms that people may store in wallets or purses can be damaged. Make sure the wrapper is intact. If the condom itself is torn or shows signs of damage, do not use it, and discard it immediately.
- Carefully open the wrapper. Avoid using teeth or ripping the package forcefully, as this can tear the condom.
- Make sure the rim is facing the outside so that it is possible to roll the condom over the penis.
- For uncircumcised men, pull back the foreskin to expose the glans before application, ensuring a secure fit and reducing friction.
- If needed, place one tiny drop of lubricant inside the tip of the condom to increase comfort. No more, otherwise the condom will slip out and all bets are off.
- Pinch the tip of the condom and place it on the head of the erect penis. Pinching the tip removes excess air and allows extra space at the top to collect semen.
- Roll the condom down the shaft to the base of the penis.
- If the condom does not have lubrication, apply a small amount of water- or silicon-based lubricant to the outside of the condom.
- After ejaculation, hold the base of the condom while pulling out. Doing this will prevent it from falling off.
- Carefully remove the condom, tie a knot at the open end, and throw it in the trash. Never reuse.
- Make sure to wash your penis after sex to ensure health.
Dental Dams
While there are flavoured condoms for oral sex on a penis, many people don't know about dental dams, which are available for all kinds of oral sex. Dental dams are highly effective at preventing the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)—including HIV, HPV, herpes, syphilis, and gonorrhea—during oral-vaginal or oral-anal sex when used correctly. They provide a physical barrier against bodily fluids and reduce skin-to-skin contact.
Avoiding Pregnancy
Besides condoms, there are many ways to avoid pregnancy. But before we go over these, let me share these two great resources!
New West Youth Clinic (Primary Care Centre)
This is the main hub for youth health in the city. It is located right near the Royal Columbian Hospital.
- Location: Unit 100 - 233 Nelson's Crescent, New Westminster, BC
- Phone: 604-525-0822
- Best for: Full sexual health exams, STI testing, and free or low-cost birth control.
Purpose Society (Youth Clinic)
The Purpose Society is a long-standing community partner in New West that offers a very non-clinical, welcoming environment.
- Location: 40 Begbie Street, New Westminster, BC
- Phone: 604-526-2522
- Best for: Students who might feel intimidated by a standard doctor's office. They provide testing, emergency contraception (the "Morning After" pill), and general counseling.
Pharmacies will help, too
Many pharmacies in BC will provide the morning after pill cheap or free of cost. Call some of them and be prepared because you never know!
Contraceptive Methods
(NOT for STDs!)
Of course, we talked about condoms. They are your first line of defense against pregnancy AND STDs. But they are not the only option, if you are only worried about pregnancy!
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All contraceptives have a chance of failure. Even when people tie their fallopians tubes and when men get vasectomies, there is still a chance of pregnancy (it's rare but it happens!). But if you are dilligent and use the contraceptive as directed, then it is much less likely that you will have to raise a whole human because of half an hour of fun.
The Surgical Methods
These are done as adults, but still a good idea to know about.
Vasectomy: a safe, usually permanent form of male birth control involving a 10–30 minute surgical procedure to cut or seal the tubes (vas deferens) that carry sperm from the testicles. This is where the expression "shooting blanks" comes from. It prevents sperm from entering semen, making an AMAB sterile while having no impact on sexual performance, libido, or ejaculation.
Tubal ligation: commonly known as "getting your tubes tied," is a safe, permanent surgical sterilization procedure for women that prevents pregnancy by cutting, sealing, or removing the fallopian tubes. This blocks sperm from reaching and fertilizing an egg. It is over 99% effective, does not affect hormones or sex drive, and allows for immediate return home.
Diaphragm
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A diaphragm is a small, soft dome-shaped silicon cup placed inside the vagina before sex. It prevents pregnancy by forming a physical barrier which stops sperm entering the uterus. Because sperm can live for several hours in the vagina, a diaphragm needs to stay in place for at least 6 (but no longer than 24) hours after sex.
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Diaphragms are effective at preventing pregnancy (82% to 86%) when used correctly and fitted properly. However, unlike condoms, they don’t provide any protection against STIs.
It is a good idea to use diaphragms in combination with spermicides.
It is a good idea to use diaphragms in combination with spermicides.
Spermicide
Spermicide is an over-the-counter, non-hormonal, chemical-based birth control (usually Nonoxynol-9) inserted into the vagina before intercourse to stop sperm from moving or reaching the egg. It comes as foams, gels, films, or creams, with a typical effectiveness rate of 72–82% when used alone. It should be reapplied for each act of intercourse. It's best if used in combination with other methods such as the diaphragm.
I.U.D. (Intra-uterine device)
Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are small, T-shaped devices that are inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. They offer long-term contraception (between 5 to10 years) but can be removed at any time by a doctor or nurse. There are 2 types of IUDs available including the hormonal IUD (Mirena/Kyleena) and the non-hormonal IUD (copper).
Hormonal IUD:
The hormonal IUD is a small T-shaped device that works by slowly releasing a very low dose of the hormone levonorgestrel. Depending on which type you get, a hormonal IUD can prevent pregnancy for up to 5 to7 years. The hormonal IUD is 99.8% effective in preventing pregnancy.
Copper intrauterine contraceptive device:
The copper IUD is a small T-shaped device made from copper. It doesn’t contain hormones and works by constantly releases a small amount of copper into your body which affects the way sperm move and survive. It can also change the lining of the uterus, preventing a fertilised egg from being able to attach and develop. Copper IUDs are 99% effective in preventing pregnancy and, depending on the type, can last up to 10 years.
Hormonal IUD:
The hormonal IUD is a small T-shaped device that works by slowly releasing a very low dose of the hormone levonorgestrel. Depending on which type you get, a hormonal IUD can prevent pregnancy for up to 5 to7 years. The hormonal IUD is 99.8% effective in preventing pregnancy.
Copper intrauterine contraceptive device:
The copper IUD is a small T-shaped device made from copper. It doesn’t contain hormones and works by constantly releases a small amount of copper into your body which affects the way sperm move and survive. It can also change the lining of the uterus, preventing a fertilised egg from being able to attach and develop. Copper IUDs are 99% effective in preventing pregnancy and, depending on the type, can last up to 10 years.
Birth Control Pill
Oral contraceptives come in the form of a small tablet by which hormones that prevent pregnancy are released into the body.
There are a few different types to choose from, so it’s about finding the one that’s right for you. The combined pill contains 2 hormones, estrogen and progestogen, while the mini pill contains progestogen only.
They must be taken at the same time every day and are usually 93% to 99% effective when used correctly. The effectiveness might be reduced if you have vomiting or diarrhoea, or take certain medications.
Each package comes with 4 weeks of pills; three weeks are active hormones, and one week is a placebo week. Instead of having you "slip" a week and lose the habit, the package comes with this "break" week to help you keep track!
There are a few different types to choose from, so it’s about finding the one that’s right for you. The combined pill contains 2 hormones, estrogen and progestogen, while the mini pill contains progestogen only.
They must be taken at the same time every day and are usually 93% to 99% effective when used correctly. The effectiveness might be reduced if you have vomiting or diarrhoea, or take certain medications.
Each package comes with 4 weeks of pills; three weeks are active hormones, and one week is a placebo week. Instead of having you "slip" a week and lose the habit, the package comes with this "break" week to help you keep track!
Injections
The contraceptive injection is given every 12 weeks and contains the hormone progestogen. It is usually given into the buttocks or upper arm of someone with a vagina and over the next 12 weeks the pregnancy-preventing hormone is slowly released into the bloodstream.
For some people, the injection may lead to a period stopping or irregular bleeding. The contraceptive injection is 94% to 99.8% effective.
For some people, the injection may lead to a period stopping or irregular bleeding. The contraceptive injection is 94% to 99.8% effective.
Patch
A contraceptive patch (such as Xulane or Twirla) is a safe, highly effective (over 99% with perfect use) transdermal birth control method. It works by releasing estrogen and progestin through the skin, preventing ovulation.
It requires a prescription and is applied weekly on the upper arm, lower back, abdomen, or shoulder, for three weeks, followed by a patch-free week. It stops ovaries from releasing eggs, thickens cervical mucus, and thins the uterine lining.
It requires a prescription and is applied weekly on the upper arm, lower back, abdomen, or shoulder, for three weeks, followed by a patch-free week. It stops ovaries from releasing eggs, thickens cervical mucus, and thins the uterine lining.
Implants
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A contraceptive implant, also known as ‘the rod’ or ‘the implant’, is a small flexible rod placed under the skin of the upper arm by a doctor or nurse. It works by continuously releasing a low dose of the hormone progestogen into the blood stream. Implants need to be replaced every three years but can be removed earlier if needed.
They are 99.9% effective in preventing pregnancy. |
Vaginal ring
The vaginal ring (or Nuva Ring) is a flexible plastic ring which is self-inserted and remains in the vagina for 3 weeks. It works by slowly releasing the hormones progestogen and oestrogen into your body (the same hormones used in the oral contraceptive pill, but at a lower dose). After 3 weeks, the ring is self-removed, and a new ring is self-inserted a week later. If used correctly a vaginal ring is at least 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. However, if you forget to put a new ring in, use it incorrectly or take certain medications, it might only be 93% effective.
Condoms - Suggestions for Positive Dialogue
"Babe, I don't like the feel of it." "I don't care. It's either condoms or nothing."
"I'm clean and you are on the pill, it's fine." "No it's not fine. I am not going to risk it."
"Just this time!" "I find that really selfish of you... you just gave me the ick."
"It fell off!" "And now I will have to kill you, bury you in the backyard and get a morning-after pill."
"I'm clean and you are on the pill, it's fine." "No it's not fine. I am not going to risk it."
"Just this time!" "I find that really selfish of you... you just gave me the ick."
"It fell off!" "And now I will have to kill you, bury you in the backyard and get a morning-after pill."
