RESOURCES
There
are a wide variety of contraceptive methods you and your
partner can choose from to avoid pregnancy and STDs. Sexual
decision-making and contraception is an important decision,
and one that you and your partner should discuss together
in a relaxed atmosphere. It's always a good idea to talk
with your doctor about the choices that may be best for
your body and your medical needs. Remember: sex is an important
and personal decision for both you and your partner. It
can bring about a special bond of closeness and intimacy,
but can just as easily bring emotional upheaval, unplanned
pregnancies, and sexually
transmitted diseases (many of which cannot be cured
and may even be deadly).
Other
helpful links and further readings are as follows:
Managing
Contraception (By Robert Hatcher, M.D.)
In addition to this detailed book, an excellent website
written by Dr. Hatcher and maintained at Emory University's
Medical Schoo is an excellent and unbiased source for detailed
information on almost all contraceptive and emergency contraceptive
techniques.
Our
Bodies, Ourselves for the New Century: A Book by and
for Women (by Boston Women's Health Book Collective)
In
conclusion, communication, honesty, and planning, are crucial
in determining whether a sexual relationship is right for
you, and if so what form of contraception is best. There
are many resources out there to help you make a decision.
Your primary care physician (ob-gyn, family practitioner,
internist or pediatrician) is an excellent source of advice
and counsel. You can also call your local Planned
Parenthood office for advice and counseling on contraceptive
options. Depending on your religious and personal beliefs,
discussion with your priest, rabbi, chaplain, or other spiritual
leader may also be helpful in determining the right course
of action for you for these important, yet personal, issues.
Other
Sources Used: Contraceptive Technology, 17th ed. Hatcher,
et al, ed. Ardent Media 1998. "Sex Inc." Brown Univ. Office
of Health Education, 1997 Danakas, GT and Pietrantoni, M.
Practical Guide to the Care of the Gynecologic/ Obstetric
Patient. Mosby-Year Book, Inc., 1997. Assorted OB-GYN clerkship
notes., Managing Contraceptive Pill Patients, 9th ed., by
Richard Dickey, MD, Ph.D.
