Birth control actually began with the Egyptians almost 3,500 years ago. Men in Egypt wore condom-like sheaths as attractive and fabulous penis covers. By the 18th century, condoms were being made from sheep intestines. In Victorian England, sexual stimulation was believed to shorten one's life; and oral sex was thought to cause cancer of the mouth, so sex once a month was considered more than enough. In the ancient Middle East, Arabs placed pebbles in the uteruses of female camels when they set off on long journeys. It was thought to believe that this foreign object in the uterus prevented pregnancy (Ingall). Now there are up-to-date methods of birth control available to anyone at anytime. What kind of method to use seems to be the difficult part.

Condoms are the only guaranteed way, short of

Many religious groups promote abstinence as a form of birth control. Abstinence is defined as avoiding sex. It is 100% effective in stopping the spread of disease, and 100% effective in preventing pregnancy. Abstinence can be a good option for some, but circumstances can change suddenly, and being prepared is important. When abstinence is combined with another form of contraception, such as condoms or spermicide, it is a realistically workable plan for birth control.

The diaphragm and the cervical cap are slightly less popular than the above stated methods of birth control, but they are both effective. The diaphragm and cervical cap are rubber disks that are inserted into the vagina and covers the cervix. They block semen from entering the cervix, and have a higher success rate when used in combination with spermicide. When used correctly, they are about 94% effective. Diaphragms and cervical caps are only available by prescription, but disadvantages and medical risks are involved. Use increases the risk of urinary tract infections, and if inserted incorrectly they can slip out of place during sex. If the either is left in for more than 48 hours the risk of developing Toxic Shock Syndrome is increased.

Although both types of condoms have many advantages, such as stopping the spread of diseases and preventing pregnancy, there are disadvantages. Condoms break easily and holes can form almost instantly when oil-based lubricants, such as Vaseline, suntan oil or whipped cream, are used. Skin condoms are an alternative to latex for preventing pregnancy, but do not stop diseases from spreading. Polyurethane condoms prevent infection as well as pregnancy.

Oral contraceptives are also widely used. Several women take them daily, and they are safe to use with other forms of birth control, such as condoms. There are two types of oral contraceptives: combined "the Pill", and progestin-only "the Mini-Pill". Pills are the most requested form of birth control. Some women experience side effects--painful breasts, weight gain, nausea, headaches, depression--while others have none (Ingall).

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