Depo-Provera is an injectable (given by needle) form of hormones similar to the natural progesterone made by your ovaries each month. It is used to prevent pregnancy. This pamphlet explains how Depo-Provera works, how well it works, how to get it, when it starts working, pros and cons, who should not take it, and certain things to remember when taking it. Depo-Provera will not protect you against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). A list of resources is provided if you have any questions. …
Birth control pills work to prevent pregnancy by stopping you from ovulating, thickening the mucus made by your cervix, and changing the lining of your uterus. This pamphlet explains how well the pill works, when it starts working, pros and cons, how to take it, what can change how well it works, instructions for missed pills, and possible side effects (as well as serious ones to be aware of). The pill is not prescribed to women over 35 who smoke due to the risks involved. The pill will not pro…
The birth control patch is a patch that you place on your skin once a week. It has 2 hormones, estrogen and progesterone, which are absorbed (taken in) through the skin. It is used to prevent pregnancy. This pamphlet explains how the patch works, how well it works, pros and cons, possible side effects (as well as serious ones to be aware of), who should not use it, how to use it, and where to put it on your body. Instructions for what to do if you forget to start or change a patch, or if it fal…
An STI is an infection that is spread through sexual contact. Most STIs can be treated very easily. However, if left untreated, many can cause problems later. This pamphlet explains common symptoms of STIs, how we test for and treat STIs, what has changed with the STI Clinic, how to make an appointment, what to do if you just want to be screened for STIs, and what to expect at the Clinic. The STI Clinic's location and hours are also provided.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can happen when bacteria (germs) get into the urinary tract. The urinary tract is made up of your kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. UTIs are not sexually transmitted (partners do not spread the bacteria (germs) to each other). This pamphlet explains the signs of a UTI, how UTIs are treated, what you can do to help, what you can do for pain, and how to lower your chance of infection in the future. Symptoms that require medical assistance are listed.
Condoms are birth control devices that prevent semen (the fluid that contains sperm) from entering a vagina or anus. When semen is released inside a vagina, it may reach an egg and fertilize it, causing pregnancy. Condoms also help prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, if used properly. There are 2 types of condoms: internal (worn on the inside of the vagina or anus) and external (worn on the outside of an erect penis). This pamphlet explains what internal…
Gonorrhea (“gah-nuh-REE-uh”) and chlamydia (“kluh-MID-ee-uh”) are common sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Gonorrhea and chlamydia are caused by bacteria. The bacteria can be passed from an infected pregnant person to their baby during birth. Gonorrhea and chlamydia can both cause eye infections in newborns. Newborn eye infections caused by gonorrhea and chlamydia are rare, but they are serious. They must be treated quickly to avoid long-term complications. This pamphlet explains how you …