Forms of Protection

Abstinence - Effectiveness: 100%

The Pill - Hormones mimic those the body produces. Prevents egg from maturing. Effectiveness: 99%

Depo-Provera

Implants - Either six plastic rods are inserted into the upper arm or an injection is given. Both contain same ovulation-stopper as the pill. Effectiveness: Implants 99.1%, Injection 99.8%

Condoms - Latex-tube fits over penis, or inside vagina. Protects against STD's and pregnancy. Effectiveness: 80-90%, male condoms, 75-85%, female condoms

Spermicides (creams, foams) - Forms a chemical barrier, kills sperm. Effectiveness: 80%

Diaphragm/Cervical Cap - A rubber dome forms a barrier to prevent sperm from reaching cervix. Effectiveness: 85%

Intra-Uterine Device (IUD) - Two types available; a progesterone and a copper T- shaped IUD. Interferes with sperm movement. Effectiveness: Copper- 99%, Progesterone 97%

Sponge - A polyurethane foam is filled with three sperm-acides, also forms a barrier like the diaphragm. Effectiveness: 85-90%

Natural Family Planning - Determining when you are fertile using body temp and cervical mucus changes to find the day of ovulation and abstain from sex around that day. Effectiveness: 65-95%