How do I talk with my partner about birth control?
Talking about birth control methods can be difficult, but it’s important to have open discussions with your partner about any sex-related issue. If you feel you can’t talk to your partner about birth control, you might want to rethink if you’re ready for sex with that person. Here are a few tips on how to make the conversation as relaxed and productive as possible:
First, do your research – find the method that is right for you. You will feel educated and confident for the conversation.
Second, plan out what you want to say and make a list. Practice your opening lines out loud so you feel comfortable. Remember if you are honest, calm, and clear your partner will likely respond to you in the same way.
Third, plan a time and place where you can have privacy without being interrupted or rushed.
Lastly, be respectful. Ask your partner what he/she is thinking about and feeling and his/her opinions and suggestions, but don’t feel you need to compromise your own values or morals. Make sure to be clear that you will not have sex without using a method of birth control.
What if my partner doesn’t want to use birth control?
Talking about birth control methods can be difficult, but it’s important to have open discussions with your partner about any sex-related issue. (If you feel you can’t talk to your partner about birth control, you might want to rethink if you’re ready for sex with that person.) Likewise, if your partner refuses to use a birth control method, you might want to rethink whether you should be having sex with this person.
If your partner does not want to use condoms and preventing pregnancies is your main concern, there are a number of birth control methods available that will not affect your partner. Click here to learn about all the different birth control methods and find an option that’s right for you. It’s best to talk with a health care provider to find a method you can use. Click here to find a family planning clinic near you.
If you think having a talk with your partner about birth control will be helpful, visit How to Talk to Your Partner about Birth Control.
What are my options if I don’t want my partner to know I’m using a birth control method?
Some women, for various reasons, are in situations where they do not want their partner to know they are using a birth control method. If you belong to this category there are several forms of birth control you can use that are easier to keep private. Some methods of birth control only require a trip to your health care provider or a local family planning clinic, and do not require daily, weekly or monthly maintenance. Examples include intrauterine devices (IUDs), the birth control injection or shot, and the implant. It’s important you find the birth control method that is right for your situation. The best way find out what’s right for you is to talk to a health care provider. Find a clinic near you.
