Contraceptives (hormonal)

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Hormone-based birth control contains hormones such as estrogen and progestin. Certain medications may make your hormone-based birth control not work properly or not at all. ➤ What is birth control? Birth control is any method used to prevent pregnancy. Another word for birth control is contraception. If you have sex without birth control, there is a chance that you could get pregnant. This is true even if you have not started having periods yet or you are getting close to menopause. The only sure way to prevent pregnancy is to not have sex. But finding a good method of birth control you can use every time can help you avoid an unplanned pregnancy. ➤ What are the types of birth control? There are many different kinds of birth control. Each has pros and cons. Learning about all the methods will help you find one that is right for you. Pharmacists can prescribe and dispense contraceptives. Many contraceptives are free for B.C. residents (the pill, IUDs, implant, injection, morning-after pill). PharmaCare may cover these prescription contraceptives for any B.C. resident: º The pill º Copper IUDs º Hormonal IUDs º An injection º An implant Birth control can help prevent pregnancy. There are many types of birth control available. Speak with your health care provider to help decide which type is right for you and your partner. The best method of birth control is one that protects you every time you have sex. And with many types of birth control, that depends on how well you use it. Birth control cannot prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs), but using a condom will reduce your risk.