Over-the-counter birth control methods are used during sex to avoid pregnancy and sometimes to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Over-the-counter means that they can be purchased by anyone, without a doctor's prescription.
For more information about birth control options, see:
Over-the-counter birth control methods are not as effective against pregnancy as some prescription methods. However, they are more effective against STIs than any other method except not having intercourse (abstinence). They enable people to protect themselves against pregnancies and STIs without having to:
CONDOMS
SPERMICIDES
VAGINAL SPONGE
Risks include irritation, allergic reaction, trouble removing the sponge. In rare cases, toxic shock syndrome may occur.
EMERGENCY ("MORNING AFTER") BIRTH CONTROL
Birth control - over the counter; Contraceptives - over the counter
Amy JJ, Tripathi V. Contraception for women: an evidence based overview. BMJ. 2009 Aug 7;339.
Reviewed by: David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc., and Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond, Washington; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine.
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