Birth Control

This set of flashcards covers important terms and concepts related to birth control methods, their effectiveness, and associated risks.

What is abstinence?

Having no intimate sexual contact with anyone, or having no sexual contact at all.

What is birth control?

A means of preventing pregnancy, also known as contraception.

What are the three categories of birth control?

Sterilization, Hormonal, and Barrier.

How does sterilization work in birth control?

It is a permanent surgical method to prevent pregnancy.

What are hormonal birth control methods?

Methods that release hormones to prevent ovulation or alter the menstrual cycle.

How do barrier methods of birth control work?

They physically block sperm from entering the uterus.

What is an example of hormonal birth control?

Implantable rod, hormonal IUDs, shots/injections (like Depo-Provera), or oral contraceptives.

What is the effectiveness rate of oral contraceptives?

91% effective.

Do hormonal contraceptives protect against STIs?

No.

What is the typical pregnancy risk when using withdrawal as a method?

78% effective, meaning it does not reliably prevent pregnancy.

What are possible side effects of the birth control shot (Depo-Provera)?

Breast tenderness, irregular bleeding, nausea.

How often do you need to use transdermal birth control (the patch)?

Once a week for 3 weeks.

What is the effectiveness of male condoms?

82% effective.

Do male condoms protect against STIs?

Yes.

What must be considered when using female condoms?

Latex allergy and proper use.

What demographic commonly uses birth control methods from ages 15-49?

Most commonly used birth control methods are generally tailored for this age group.

What is syphilis?

Syphilis is a bacterial STI with 209,253 cases reported in the U.S. in 2023, characterized by sores.

What are the symptoms of gonorrhea in males?

Males may experience painful or burning sensations when urinating, and white, yellow, or green discharge from the penis, as well as painful or swollen testicles.

What are the symptoms of gonorrhea in females?

Females may experience painful or burning sensations when urinating, increased discharge, and bleeding between periods.

How common is chlamydia and what are its symptoms in females?

Chlamydia is a bacterial STI with 1.6 million new cases reported in 2023. Female symptoms include abnormal discharge and a burning sensation when urinating.

What are the symptoms of chlamydia in males?

Male symptoms include discharge from the penis, a burning sensation when urinating, and pain and swelling in one or both testicles.

What is herpes and how common is it?

Herpes is a viral STI and the second most common viral STI in the U.S., characterized by sores. Most affected individuals have mild or no symptoms.

What are the symptoms of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)?

HPV is the most common viral STI in the U.S., which may cause genital warts and can lead to cervical cancer in females. Symptoms can develop years after contact.

What are the main symptoms of HIV/AIDS?

HIV/AIDS symptoms include a weakened immune system, flu-like symptoms, weight loss, night sweats, and abdominal pain. There are approximately 1.2 million people living with HIV in the U.S.