Birth Control and Contraceptives

Questions You Have Asked

  • They are methods used to prevent pregnancy. Some also help protect against infections.

    To learn more click here!

  • Common types include pills, patches, shots, implants, intrauterine devices, condoms, and emergency contraception. Each works differently. To know more about each one, click here!

  • Many people who can get pregnant use birth control at some point in their lives.

    Among sexually active teens and adults, birth control use is very common, especially condoms and hormonal methods.

    Some people choose not to use birth control for personal, medical, or religious reasons, and that choice is valid as long as it is informed.

  • It can help with painful periods, acne, heavy bleeding, hormone regulation, endometriosis, and polycystic ovary syndrome.

  • Researchers have studied male hormonal birth control, but side effects have been a major challenge. These can include:

    • mood changes

    • acne

    • weight gain

    • changes in libido

    Because male birth control would be used by healthy individuals, safety standards are very high. Research is ongoing, including non-hormonal options.

  • Many types of birth control you do need to see a doctor, especially for prescriptions like the pill, patch, shot, implant, or IUD.


    However, some options do not require a doctor visit. Condoms are available over the counter, and O-Pill, a progestin-only birth control pill, can be purchased without a prescription to improve access.

    While over-the-counter options make birth control easier to get, not having a primary care provider involved means there is less opportunity to discuss side effects or unusual symptoms. In New York State, teens can access birth control confidentially.

  • During ejaculation, sperm travel through the cervix into the uterus and toward the fallopian tubes. If an egg is present, one sperm can fertilize it.

    The fertilized egg then travels to the uterus and implants in the uterine lining, where pregnancy begins.

  • Biologically, pregnancy happens when an egg is released from the ovary, fertilized by sperm, and implants in the uterus.

    Hormonal birth control works by stopping ovulation, thickening cervical mucus so sperm cannot reach an egg, and thinning the uterine lining to prevent implantation. Barrier methods physically block sperm from entering the uterus.

  • There is no difference in length between magnum and regular condoms. The main difference is circumference.

    Magnum condoms are slightly wider and are designed to increase comfort and safety for people who need more room. Regular sized condoms will work for almost everyone.


    The actual difference in width between regular and magnum condoms is small, usually only about one to two millimeters. Magnum condoms are not about size labels. They are about fit. A better fit can help reduce discomfort and lower the risk of condoms breaking.


    Choosing the right size is about comfort and safety, not labels. If a condom feels tight or uncomfortable, sizing up to a wider option is recommended. If a condom feels loose or slips, sizing down may help. Condom sizes vary by brand, and finding the right fit can make condoms work better and feel more comfortable.

  • Most condoms are made from latex or synthetic materials. They are created by using dipping glass or metal molds into liquid latex or synthetic rubber, then drying and curing the material so it becomes strong and stretchy.

    After shaping, condoms are washed, tested for holes and strength, lubricated, and packaged. Each condom is electronically tested to make sure it meets safety standards before being sold.

  • Hormonal birth control changes levels of estrogen and or progesterone to prevent ovulation. These hormone changes can affect the body in different ways depending on the method used. Some people notice changes such as lighter periods, less cramping, or skin changes, while others may experience side effects like nausea or mood changes, especially when starting a new method.

    Because effects vary by person and by type of birth control, it is important to talk with a doctor or healthcare provider about any symptoms or concerns so they can help find the best option for you.

  • For most people, fertility returns to normal shortly after stopping. Birth control does not cause long term infertility.

  • Effectiveness depends on the method and how consistently it is used. Some methods are over 99 percent effective when used correctly.

  • No method except abstinence is 100 percent effective.

  • Long-acting methods like implants and intrauterine devices are the most effective because they do not rely on daily use. That said, the best birth control is different for everyone.

    Talking with a doctor or healthcare provider can help you choose an option that fits your body, lifestyle, and health needs. To learn more about how different types of birth control work, click here to visit our Types of Birth Control page.

  • There is no age limit.

  • Yes. Condoms do expire, and using an expired condom increases the risk that it may break. While it is not recommended to use an expired condom, using one is still safer than not using a condom at all if no other option is available.

  • They should be put on before any genital contact, used once, and removed carefully after ejaculation.

  • Use a new condom every time, store them properly, and use water based or silicone-based lubricant.

  • When used perfectly, they are about 98 % effective. With typical use, about 87 % effective.