BIRTH CONTROL YOU CAN GET WITHOUT A PRESCRIPTION
Some types of birth control are available without a doctor’s prescription. They have no side effects for most people. But some people may be allergic to them and get rashes if they use them.
Condoms for Men
People sometimes call condoms for men rubbers, safes, or prophylactics. You can buy condoms without a prescription at drugstores, supermarkets, and many other places.
To use, put the condom on the erect penis before having sex. Use each condom only once. Most condoms are made from latex rubber. Others are made from lamb intestines and are often called lambskins. Some condoms are made from polyurethane. If you aren’t allergic to latex, you should use latex condoms because they are best at preventing pregnancy and they also protect best against AIDS, herpes, and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Condoms shouldn’t be used with Vaseline or other brands of petroleum jelly, lotions, or oils. But they can be used with lubricants that don’t have oil, such as K-Y jelly.
Female Condom
The Reality Female Condom is made of polyurethane. You can buy female condoms at drugstores without a prescription. To use, insert the condom into the vagina right before sex and use each only once. Don’t use it at the same time as a male condom. If you have a choice, it’s better for the man to use a latex condom because it’s better than the female condom at preventing pregnancy and protecting you against STDs.
Description: A lubricated polyurethane sheath shaped similarly to
the male condom. The closed end has a flexible ring that is inserted into
the vagina.
Failure Rate (number of pregnancies expected per 100 women per
year): 21
Some Risks: Irritation and allergic reactions
Protection from Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): May give some
STD protection; not as effective as latex condom
Convenience: Applied immediately before intercourse; used only once
and discarded.
Availability: Nonprescription
Spermicide Alone
Spermicides are available without a prescription in drugstores and some other stores. They contain a chemical that kills sperm. Spermicides are sold in several forms including foam, cream and jelly.
To use, put the spermicide into the vagina at least 10 minutes before having sex. One dose of spermicide usually works for one hour, but you must use another dose every time you have intercourse even if less than an hour has passed. You should not douche or rinse your vagina for at least 6 to 8 hours after having sex.
