Having sex with someone is something most of us do not think about…until the consequences of that encounter become apparent. Unfortunately, sexually transmitted diseases are spread without a woman even knowing she became infected with it. Condoms are the most effective way of preventing getting a sexually transmitted disease like chlamydia or gonorrhea during sexual intercourse. These infections can cause long-term damage to you internally that can affect your ability to have a family down the road. Please remember to use condoms to prevent sexually transmitted diseases.
Females having vaginal sex can become pregnant when they start having periods. Birth control can help a woman delay pregnancy until she is physically and emotionally ready to start a family. Birth control methods can prevent pregnancy but cannot prevent sexually transmitted diseases. Talk to your health care provider about what birth control method is right for you. Many women prefer to use the longer acting methods like IUDs (inserted inside your uterus) or implants (a small capsule the size of a match placed in your arm) because no one else will know they are there. Use the resources below to learn more about the birth control method that is right for you.
General Resources:
If you need assistance locating programs and services that assist with safe sex and pregnancy prevention services, please call the MCH MOMS Helpline at 1-844-MCH-MOMS (844-624-6667).
Resources:
Call Bedsider for free birth control info (888) 321-0383 or go to https://www.bedsider.org/
CDC Reproductive Health: to get up to date information on different forms of birth control. https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/contraception/index.htm
ACOG Birth Control (Contraception): Resource Overview
https://www.acog.org/Womens-Health/Birth-Control-Contraception#Patient
Low Cost Services in Indiana and Marion County:
Medicaid Family Planning Eligibility Program: provides services and supplies to men and women for the primary purpose of preventing or delaying pregnancy. This is for people who do not qualify for any other type of Medicaid and have income at or below 133% of the poverty level. Call the Division of Family Resources toll free at 1-800-403-0864 to find a location closest to you.
Indiana Family Health Council): provides birth control services and counseling for low-income, working poor and teens. Call for a location near you (www.ifhc.org or 317-247-9151.
Indiana Primary Health Care Association: will provide locations of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) that can provide medical services on a sliding fee scale. (www.indianapca.org/page/FindaCHC)