Contraception

Tips to Talk to Your Partner About Contraception

This isn't a discussion you should be saving for a moment of passion. Contraception should be one of your primary health considerations, and it is important that you and your partner are equally comfortable with your choice of contraceptive.

• Talk about your personal preferences. Be honest. If either of you aren't comfortable using a barrier method like a diaphragm, say so.
• Assess your personal needs. Are you looking for a short-term, long-term or permanent method of contraception?
• Discuss with your partner any concerns he or she has with any of your preferred choices.
• Make sure that your discussion includes taking equal responsibility for contraception.
• Make yourselves familiar with all of the contraceptive choices that are available, and seek out information on those methods you are not familiar with. Your physician or another healthcare provider, or a Planned Parenthood or birth control clinic are all good sources of information. For in-depth information on individual contraceptive methods, see the Contraception section on this web site.

Having a discussion on contraception and contraceptive methods is important whether you are in a new relationship or a long-term one. Remember, as your lives change, so too may your choice of contraceptive - you do not have to make a lifetime commitment to one method over another. Decide as a couple what's easiest, most effective, and what level of unplanned pregnancy risk you are prepared to accept.

Last Modified: September 5, 2006