1. Emergency Contraception (EC)

(a.k.a. the "Morning After Pill")

What is it?

A pill taken after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy.

How it works:

It delays ovulation (release of the egg) so that sperm can't fertilize it. It does not work if you're already pregnant.

How effective is it?

• Best when taken within 72 hours after sex

• Up to 89% effective, depending on how soon it’s taken
  
  

Pros:

• Easy to take

• Available in most pharmacies without prescription

• Safe even for young people
  
  

Cons:

• May cause temporary nausea, spotting, or cycle changes

• Not for regular use
  
  

Where to get it:

Pharmacies, clinics, or online (in some countries)

2. Spermicides

(Foam, gel, cream, film, or suppository)

What is it?

A chemical that kills sperm before they reach the egg.

How it works:

Inserted deep into the vagina before sex, it creates a chemical barrier.

Effectiveness:

• Used alone: around 72% effective

• Better with condoms or diaphragm
  
  

Pros:

• Easy to use

• Can increase effectiveness of barrier methods

• No hormones
  
  

Cons:

• Can cause vaginal irritation or allergic reactions

• Doesn’t protect against STIs
  
  

3. Combined Methods (Double Protection)

This means using two methods together — usually:

• A barrier method (like a condom)
  +

• Another method (like spermicide or a hormonal method)
  
  

Why it helps:

• Boosts pregnancy prevention

• Protects against STIs (if one method is a condom)
  
  

Examples:

• Condom + Pill

• Diaphragm + Spermicide

• Condom + Fertility Awareness
  
  

4. Abstinence

(Delaying or avoiding vaginal sex)

What is it?

Choosing not to have vaginal sex for a period of time — or ever.

Effectiveness:

• 100% effective at preventing pregnancy and STIs (if fully practiced)
  
  

Why people choose it:

• Personal or cultural values

• Health concerns

• Waiting for the right time or relationship
  
  

5. Non-Vaginal Sex

Some couples choose sexual activities that don’t involve vaginal penetration to avoid pregnancy.

Note: STI protection may still be needed depending on the activity.

6. Breastfeeding as Birth Control (Lactational Amenorrhea Method – LAM)

What is it?

A method for new mothers who are exclusively breastfeeding.

How it works:

Breastfeeding can suppress ovulation, especially in the first 6 months after birth.

Effectiveness:

• About 98% when used correctly under specific conditions.
  
  

Summary Emoji Guide:

• Emergency contraception: ⚠️⏱️

• Spermicide: 🧴

• Double protection: ✌️+🛡️

• Abstinence: ❌❤️

• LAM / Breastfeeding method: 🤱

• Non-vaginal sex: 🔄