Welcome

A typical U.S. woman is fertile about 40 years half of her expected life span. If you choose not to have children at any point during that time, it's important that you select a birth control method that you find comfortable and appealing to your lifestyle.

This guide is intended to help you select a method of birth control that's appropriate for you. As you'll see, numerous contraceptive options are available. Your decision about what works best for you and your partner will be based on a number of factors, such as whether the method is reversible, what the potential side effects are and whether it protects you from sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

As you make your way through this guide, you'll become familiar with the various birth control options: how they work, their effectiveness and the health risks associated with each. You can also read answers to frequently asked questions about birth control, from a Mayo Clinic specialist in obstetrics and gynecology. After reviewing the guide, you'll be better prepared to make a decision about which birth control method suits your needs.