What Is Family Planning?

Family Planning is making sure every child is a wanted child. Birth control methods are used to space children or delay pregnancy. Individuals may have different expectations on when they would like have children. Partners should discuss the issue of pregnancy and birth control at the beginning of and during their relationship. Discussions could also include what happens if an unexpected pregnancy occurs.

How Do I Choose A Birth Control Method?

There are many factors to consider when choosing a birth control method. These include your health, convenience of the method, lifestyle, religion, and relationship considerations. One way to decide on a method is to identify your major concerns, and then select a method that best address these concerns. For example, while birth control pills are convenient for some, others find it hard to remember to take one every day. Some women want a method that is anonymous and choose Depo Provera (birth control shot given every 3 months). Others prefer to use a method only when they have sex and choose the diaphragm. Because of concerns about sexual transmitted disease (STD) and HIV/AIDS many choose to use male or female condoms. Your family Planning provider can help you select the right method for you.

Which is the Best Method of Birth Control?

The best method of birth control is the one that you will use correctly and consistently. While no birth control is 100% effective, using a method incorrectly is like using no method at all. Depending on your life circumstances, your birth control method may change. You do not need to use the same method of birth control forever. If you are dissatisfied with the birth control method you are currently using or have other sexual health concerns, talk to your family planning provider.

How Much Does Birth Control Cost?

Boston Family Planning provides free or low-cost family planning medical services for low- income women and men, and all teens through neighborhood health centers and several hospitals in Boston, Cambridge and Somerville. These services include health exams such as Pap Smears, counseling to help choose a method, and the actual birth control method. Free condoms and educational materials are also provided. These services are also available in a variety of languages. For information on a clinic in your area call ABCD Boston Family Planning at 617.357.6000, extension 251.

Which Birth Control Method Can Men Use?

Men currently have three birth control options: Abstinence - not having sex; Condoms; Vasectomy - male sterilization. Men can also help their female partners to use birth control by becoming involved. For more information on the men's health programs call us at 617.357.6000, extension 251.

Can Teens Get Birth Control?

Teens age 12 and older have legal rights in Massachusetts to obtain birth control without parental permission. However, building good communication with parents is often a good idea. These and other sexual health issues and services can be discussed confidentially with a family planning provider. Call ABCD Boston Family Planning at 617.357.6000, extension 251 for information on adolescent clinics in your area.

If I Use Birth Control, Am I Protected From Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD)?

Abstinence is the only 100% effective means of not being at risk for HIV/AIDS and STD. Condoms are the most effective method of reducing your risk for HIV infection and STD if you have chosen to have sex. So even if you are using the birth control pills, you are protected from pregnancy but not from HIV/AIDS and STD. A family planning provider can discuss your risk for HIV infection and STD with you. STD and HIV Antibody testing and counseling is available in all ABCD/Boston Family Planning sites.

Is there Emergency Birth Control or a Morning After Pill?

Emergency Contraception (some times known as the "morning after” pill) is available at all ABCD Boston Family Planning sites. If used within 72 hours after unprotected sex, emergency contraceptive pills may prevent a pregnancy. Emergency Contraceptives are not a substitute for the consistent use of an effective birth control method. Emergency Contraceptives does not protect against HIV/AIDS and STD.