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	<title>Kinsey Confidential &#187; Birth Control</title>
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		<copyright>2006-2007 </copyright>
		<managingEditor>aschweig@indiana.edu (Kinsey Confidential)</managingEditor>
		<webMaster>aschweig@indiana.edu (Kinsey Confidential)</webMaster>
		<category>posts</category>
		<ttl>1440</ttl>
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		<itunes:summary>Just another WordPress weblog</itunes:summary>
		<itunes:author>Kinsey Confidential</itunes:author>
		<itunes:category text="Society &amp; Culture"/>
		<itunes:owner>
			<itunes:name>Kinsey Confidential</itunes:name>
			<itunes:email>aschweig@indiana.edu</itunes:email>
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		<itunes:block>No</itunes:block>
		<itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
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			<url>http://kinseyconfidential.org/wp-content/themes/kinsey/images/kinsey-podcast-300.jpg</url>
			<title>Kinsey Confidential</title>
			<link>http://kinseyconfidential.org</link>
			<width>144</width>
			<height>144</height>
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		<item>
		<title>Survey Reveals Major Gaps In Young Adults&#8217; Knowledge About Safe Sex</title>
		<link>http://kinseyconfidential.org/survey-reveals-major-gaps-young-adults-knowledge-safe-sex-2/</link>
		<comments>http://kinseyconfidential.org/survey-reveals-major-gaps-young-adults-knowledge-safe-sex-2/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 09 Feb 2010 11:00:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Eric Anthony Grollman (M.A.)</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Birth Control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blog Post]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Content Type]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Homepage Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Special]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[condoms]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[contraceptives]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sex]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sex education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sex research]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[the pill]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[youth]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://kinseyconfidential.org/survey-reveals-major-gaps-young-adults-knowledge-safe-sex-2/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[A recent study of 18- to 29-year old unmarried adults reveals startling gaps in young adults' knowledge about safe-sex practices and pregnancy.]]></description>
		<wfw:commentRss>http://kinseyconfidential.org/survey-reveals-major-gaps-young-adults-knowledge-safe-sex-2/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Condom News: Vegan, Pillows &amp; Cuteness (Kawaii)</title>
		<link>http://kinseyconfidential.org/condom-news-vegan-pillows-cuteness-kawaii/</link>
		<comments>http://kinseyconfidential.org/condom-news-vegan-pillows-cuteness-kawaii/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 09 Oct 2009 13:46:21 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Natalie Ingraham (M.P.H.)</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Birth Control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blog Post]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Content Type]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[condom types]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[condoms]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[packaging]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pillows]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vegan]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://wfiutest.rtv.indiana.edu/condom-news-vegan-pillows-cuteness-kawaii/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Stories and blog posts about condoms pop up fairly often in sexuality and sexual health blogs for obvious reasons: condoms are a major focus in the prevention of STIs and pregnancy as well as a site for fun, interesting (and potentially life-saving) technological developments.]]></description>
		<wfw:commentRss>http://kinseyconfidential.org/condom-news-vegan-pillows-cuteness-kawaii/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Withdrawal As Contraception: What We Know</title>
		<link>http://kinseyconfidential.org/withdrawal-contraception/</link>
		<comments>http://kinseyconfidential.org/withdrawal-contraception/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 04 Aug 2009 20:31:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jennifer Bass (M.P.H.)</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Birth Control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blog Post]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Content Type]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Special]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[flagged - still needs some edits]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[birth control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[contraception]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[failure rate]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[kinsey institute]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[preventing pregnancy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[research]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[withdrawal]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[withdrawal method]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://wfiutest.rtv.indiana.edu/?p=1088</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Researchers asked women about withdrawal as a form of contraception, and lo and behold....]]></description>
		<wfw:commentRss>http://kinseyconfidential.org/withdrawal-contraception/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Another (Gender) Role Reversal In Contraception</title>
		<link>http://kinseyconfidential.org/gender-role-reversal-contraception/</link>
		<comments>http://kinseyconfidential.org/gender-role-reversal-contraception/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 24 Apr 2009 13:56:42 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Natalie Ingraham (M.P.H.)</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Birth Control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blog Post]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Content Type]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[birth control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[birth control pill for men]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[caesarean section]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[contraception]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[female sterilization]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hysteroscopy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[planned parenthood]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[scar tissue]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sterilization procedures]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tubal ligation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vasectomy]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://wfiutest.rtv.indiana.edu/?p=928</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Earlier this week, I blogged about the potential of a birth control pill for men. Now, it seems that women might be undergoing "vasectomy-like" procedures in a new form of sterilization that reduces the healing time and risk normally associated with female sterilization procedures like tubal ligation (also called having your "tubes tied".]]></description>
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		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Is A Birth Control Pill For Men A Possibility?</title>
		<link>http://kinseyconfidential.org/birth-control-pill-men/</link>
		<comments>http://kinseyconfidential.org/birth-control-pill-men/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2009 13:21:04 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Natalie Ingraham (M.P.H.)</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Birth Control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blog Post]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Content Type]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[american journal of human genetics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[birth control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[birth control pill for men]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[birth control pills]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[condom use]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[heterosexual couples]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[preventing pregnancy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[research]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sperm]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vasectomy]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://wfiutest.rtv.indiana.edu/?p=966</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The future of birth control might be able to even out the load of preventing pregnancy, if University of Iowa researchers have a say.]]></description>
		<wfw:commentRss>http://kinseyconfidential.org/birth-control-pill-men/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Q&amp;A: Lambskin Condoms Vs. Latex Condoms</title>
		<link>http://kinseyconfidential.org/lambskin-condoms/</link>
		<comments>http://kinseyconfidential.org/lambskin-condoms/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 2009 14:00:38 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Dr. Debby Herbenick (M.P.H., Ph.D.)</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Birth Control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Content Type]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Podcast]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[birth control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[condom types]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[condoms]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[lambskin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[latex condoms]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[natural skin condoms]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[penis]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[polyurethane condoms]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pregnancy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[preventing pregnancy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[risk]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sensation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[stis]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://wfiutest.rtv.indiana.edu/?p=905</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Lambskin and other natural skin condoms are certainly one alternative to latex condoms. While it is true that some men experience more sensation during sex when using a natural skin condom, this benefit comes with a cost.]]></description>
		<wfw:commentRss>http://kinseyconfidential.org/lambskin-condoms/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		<enclosure url="http://wfiu.indiana.edu/podcasts/audio/kinsey/09/1401-kinsey-lambskin-latex-condoms.mp3" length="1460805" type="audio/mpeg"/>
<itunes:duration>3:02</itunes:duration>
		<itunes:subtitle>Latex condoms are, by far, the most commonly used condoms in most parts of the world. After all, even though their material is quite thin, ...</itunes:subtitle>
		<itunes:summary>Latex condoms are, by far, the most commonly used condoms in most parts of the world. After all, even though their material is quite thin, itrsquo;s actually quite strong. As a result, latex condoms have low rates of breakage and slippage.

When used correctly and consistently during sexual activities, latex condoms can greatly reduce the risk of infection transmission and pregnancy.

Even so, sometimes men and women are curious about other types of condoms or ways they can heighten their sensation during sex.

Though latex condoms are made of thin material, many men say that they feel less sensation during sex with a condom compared to sex without a condom.

Lambskin and other natural skin condoms are certainly one alternative to latex condoms. While it is true that some men experience more sensation during sex when using a natural skin condom, this benefit comes with a cost.

Although natural skin condoms greatly reduce the risk of pregnancy, they do not provide protection against sexually transmissible infections, or STIs. Thatrsquo;s because the small pores in natural skin condoms are big enough to allow these infectious organisms through them, and transmit from one person to another.

If preventing pregnancy is your only concern, then natural skin condoms may indeed be an option for you. However, you might want to make sure that you and your partner have been tested for STIs prior to switching condom types.

Another option is to consider using polyurethane condoms, which ndash; like latex condoms ndash; can reduce the risk of both pregnancy and infection.

These condoms are made of material that conducts heat better than latex does. As a result, some men find that sex feels warmer and more natural when they use polyurethane condoms as opposed to latex condoms.

If yoursquo;re inclined to stick with latex condoms, however, there are other ways to heighten sensation.

For example, you or your partner might rub a water-based or silicone-based lubricant over your condom-covered penis, or you might try using a vibrating sex toy ndash; such as a vibrating condom ring ndash; during sex, which can heighten sensation for both of you.

To learn more about condoms and other birth control methods, explore our web site or the web site of Planned Parenthood.</itunes:summary>
		<itunes:keywords>Birth,Control,,Content,Type,,Podcast</itunes:keywords>
		<itunes:author>aschweig@indiana.edu</itunes:author>
		<itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
		<itunes:block>No</itunes:block>
	</item>
		<item>
		<title>The Pope, Africa, And Condom Controversy</title>
		<link>http://kinseyconfidential.org/pope-africa-condoms/</link>
		<comments>http://kinseyconfidential.org/pope-africa-condoms/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 20 Mar 2009 18:37:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Natalie Ingraham (M.P.H.)</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Birth Control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blog Post]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Content Type]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Africa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Catholic]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[condoms]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[contraception]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[evidence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[family planning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[moral judgments]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[theologians]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://wfiutest.rtv.indiana.edu/?p=950</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The Pope is visiting Africa for the first time this week as the head of the Catholic church. He has reaffirmed the church's pan on all forms of contraception.]]></description>
		<wfw:commentRss>http://kinseyconfidential.org/pope-africa-condoms/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>FDA Approves New Nitrile Female Condoms</title>
		<link>http://kinseyconfidential.org/fda-approves-female-condoms/</link>
		<comments>http://kinseyconfidential.org/fda-approves-female-condoms/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 18 Mar 2009 18:10:39 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Natalie Ingraham (M.P.H.)</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Birth Control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blog Post]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Content Type]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[condoms]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[contraception]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fc2]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[FDA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[female condom]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[safer sex]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://wfiutest.rtv.indiana.edu/?p=949</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The FDA just announced its approval of FC2, which is made of of the thinner and lighter material nitrile and will be up to 30% cheaper than the original female condom.]]></description>
		<wfw:commentRss>http://kinseyconfidential.org/fda-approves-female-condoms/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Condoms Can Be Cute! Durex Advertisement.</title>
		<link>http://kinseyconfidential.org/condoms-cute/</link>
		<comments>http://kinseyconfidential.org/condoms-cute/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2009 17:42:42 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Samantha Seeger</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Birth Control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blog Post]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Content Type]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[condoms]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[durex]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[humor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hump day]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Superfad]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[video]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://wfiutest.rtv.indiana.edu/?p=942</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Superfad has created a new Durex condom video clip which I find to be entertaining and completely adorable. It's about 30 seconds long and it depicts blown up condoms having sex. I don't want to spoil the humor, so I'll leave it at that. I highly recommend the outtakes, too!]]></description>
		<wfw:commentRss>http://kinseyconfidential.org/condoms-cute/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Q&amp;A: Birth Control Pill Effectiveness: How Long Does It Take?</title>
		<link>http://kinseyconfidential.org/birth-control-pill-effectiveness/</link>
		<comments>http://kinseyconfidential.org/birth-control-pill-effectiveness/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2009 14:00:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Dr. Debby Herbenick (M.P.H., Ph.D.)</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Birth Control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Content Type]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Podcast]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[birth control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[birth control pills]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chlamydia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[condoms]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gonorrhea]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[HIV]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[menstrual periods]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[planned parenthood]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pregnancy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pregnancy risk]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[risk]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://wfiutest.rtv.indiana.edu/?p=843</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When I first started taking the birth control pill last year, it was just to make my period regular - I wasn't having sex. Now I am thinking about having sex, but I'm not sure when it's safe to do so. Can I have sex at any time without getting pregnant as long as I take the pill? Or do I have to wait a while first?]]></description>
		<wfw:commentRss>http://kinseyconfidential.org/birth-control-pill-effectiveness/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		<enclosure url="http://wfiu.indiana.edu/podcasts/audio/kinsey/08/1204-kinsey-birth-control-pill-effectiveness.mp3" length="1417964" type="audio/mpeg"/>
<itunes:duration>2:57</itunes:duration>
		<itunes:subtitle>These days, birth control pills (also called oral contraceptives) are used by women for numerous reasons.

Some women start taking oral contraceptives in order to improve ...</itunes:subtitle>
		<itunes:summary>These days, birth control pills (also called oral contraceptives) are used by women for numerous reasons.

Some women start taking oral contraceptives in order to improve their acne. Others start taking the Pill in order to shorten the length of their menstrual periods, regulate their periods or to relieve menstrual symptoms such as headaches or cramps.

Though you first started taking the pill for period-related reasons, you now need information about how it relates to your sex life and your protection against pregnancy.
Usually About One Month
Most birth control pill brands are effective against pregnancy after a woman has taken them consistently for about one month. Depending on the type of pill a woman is taking, and when she starts taking it, the pill may even be effective against pregnancy as early as one full week after starting to take it.

Women who have questions about how soon their pill becomes effective against pregnancy should ask their healthcare provider for more information.

In your case, however, you've been taking the pill since last year! Since you've been taking the pill for longer than one month, it should already be safe for you to have sex, with a very low risk of pregnancy, assuming that you have been taking the pill every day, as prescribed.
About 97% Effective
With perfect use, the pill is about 97% effective against pregnancy. It is not perfect - no method is - so if you are concerned about becoming pregnancy, you might use a second method of birth control.

For example, some women who are on the pill find that they feel more confident about their pregnancy risk reduction if they also ask their partner to withdraw before ejaculation, or if they use a condom.

An advantage of using a condom is that using condoms can greatly reduce one's risk of transmitting several sexually transmissible infections, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea and HIV.
Learn More
To learn more about birth control methods, including the pill, check out our birth control and pregnancy resource pages or Planned Parenthood's web site.

To learn more about your specific brand of birth control, and to ask questions related to your personal health or pregnancy risk, please speak with your healthcare provider.</itunes:summary>
		<itunes:keywords>Birth,Control,,Content,Type,,Podcast</itunes:keywords>
		<itunes:author>aschweig@indiana.edu</itunes:author>
		<itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
		<itunes:block>No</itunes:block>
	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Q&amp;A: The Morning After Pill &amp; Frequent Emergency Contraception Use</title>
		<link>http://kinseyconfidential.org/morning-after-pill-emergency-contraception/</link>
		<comments>http://kinseyconfidential.org/morning-after-pill-emergency-contraception/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 15 Jan 2009 14:00:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Dr. Debby Herbenick (M.P.H., Ph.D.)</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Birth Control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Content Type]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Podcast]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[birth control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[birth control methods]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bleeding]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[contraception]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[emergency contraception]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[morning after pill]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[planned parenthood]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[preventing pregnancy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[risk]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[stis]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://wfiutest.rtv.indiana.edu/?p=554</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I've been having sex with my boyfriend for a little over a month. Already I have had to take the morning after pill twice after unprotected sex. Then, today, we determined I should take it again. The previous times I have taken it, it caused a few days to a week of bleeding. Would that be considered my period?]]></description>
		<wfw:commentRss>http://kinseyconfidential.org/morning-after-pill-emergency-contraception/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		<enclosure url="http://wfiu.indiana.edu/podcasts/audio/kinsey/08/1106-kinsey-frequent-emergency-contraception.mp3" length="1476897" type="audio/mpeg"/>
<itunes:duration>3:04</itunes:duration>
		<itunes:subtitle>The fact that you have been having sex for about a month and have already taken emergency contraception, also known as the morning after pill, ...</itunes:subtitle>
		<itunes:summary>The fact that you have been having sex for about a month and have already taken emergency contraception, also known as the morning after pill, two times - and almost a third time now - is something that I would strongly suggest you speak with your healthcare provider, or a trusted parent or adult, about.
Emergency Contraception: Not For Frequent Use
Emergency contraception pills are not recommended for frequent use. If you and your boyfriend have decided to have sex with each other, then I would strongly suggest exploring other options for preventing pregnancy.

For example, have you considered using condoms? Not only would condoms greatly reduce your risk of pregnancy if you use them consistently and correctly, but they can also greatly reduce your risk of getting or giving one another several sexually transmissible infections, or STIs.

Since you seem comfortable with hormonal contraception, which is what emergency contraception is a form of, you might also ask your healthcare provider about birth control options such as the birth control pill, patch, shot or ring. Although they are all highly effective, some are easier to use than others and may be better choices for you.
No "Safe" Days
As you mentioned, some women do experience spotting or bleeding after they take the emergency contraception but it is not necessarily the same as a period and you can absolutely get pregnant during this time period. There are no absolute "safe" days during which a woman cannot get pregnant, especially if she is relatively young and has irregular cycles.

Please take the time to talk to your boyfriend about your choice to be sexual with each other and ways that you can reduce your risk of pregnancy. Try to identify at least one adult or healthcare provider that you can feel comfortable talking to about your choices regarding sex so that you can take care of your sexual health and reduce your risk of pregnancy.
Recommended Reading
You might find it helpful to read S.E.X.: The All-You-Need-To-Know Progressive Sexuality Guide to Get You Through High School and College by Heather Corinna or to visit the web site of Planned Parenthood for detailed information about birth control methods and healthcare services.</itunes:summary>
		<itunes:keywords>Birth,Control,,Content,Type,,Podcast</itunes:keywords>
		<itunes:author>aschweig@indiana.edu</itunes:author>
		<itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
		<itunes:block>No</itunes:block>
	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Q&amp;A: Birth Control Effectiveness And Unprotected Sex</title>
		<link>http://kinseyconfidential.org/birth-control-effectiveness-unprotected-se/</link>
		<comments>http://kinseyconfidential.org/birth-control-effectiveness-unprotected-se/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 27 Nov 2008 14:00:55 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Dr. Debby Herbenick (M.P.H., Ph.D.)</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Birth Control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Content Type]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Podcast]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[birth control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[birth control pills]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[condoms]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[contraception]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[couples]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[monogamy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pregnancy risk]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[preventing pregnancy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[stis]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[unprotected sex]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://wfiutest.rtv.indiana.edu/?p=432</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I have been on the birth control pill for the past year. Is it safe to have unprotected sex without getting pregnant? My boyfriend and I are both STI-free and we'd like to try sex without a condom.]]></description>
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		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		<enclosure url="http://podcastdownload.npr.org/anon.npr-podcasts/podcast/385/510276/97567619/WFIU_97567619.mp3" length="1492995" type="audio/mpeg"/>
<itunes:duration>2:58</itunes:duration>
		<itunes:subtitle>At some point in their lives, many women and men become interested in having sex without a condom either so that they can become pregnant ...</itunes:subtitle>
		<itunes:summary>At some point in their lives, many women and men become interested in having sex without a condom either so that they can become pregnant or so that they can experience sex in a way that may feel closer, more natural or more sensitive than sex with a condom. However, having sex without a condom opens a couple to greater risks, and you are wise to consider these.
Birth Control Effectiveness
If you have been taking your birth control pills consistently and correctly (as prescribed), then there is little chance of becoming pregnant if you have sex without a condom. Birth control pills are about 99% effective at preventing pregnancy with perfect use, and about 92% effective with typical use.

You and your boyfriend are wise to consider pregnancy risk issues and to pay attention to your risk of sexually transmissible infections (STI), particularly since birth control pills don't protect against STI.

Depending on when each of you was last tested for STIs, you may want to get tested again if needed. For example, HIV tests are often only considered absolutely accurate if a person gets tested 3-6 months after their last possible exposure.
Issues To Consider
Finally, before having sex without a condom, it may be worth thinking through a few other things in regard to your relationship.

For example, if you were to unintentionally become pregnant, how would each of you feel about raising a child, adoption, or abortion? What are your expectations about exclusivity or monogamy? In what way might having sex without a condom affect your feelings for each other, your sense of closeness, or your anxiety about becoming pregnant? If you stop using condoms, how will you feel about assuming primary responsibility for reducing pregnancy risk? And how will you two share the cost of contraception?

There are, of course, no "right" answers to these questions. Thinking about these issues, however, and talking to each other about these or other aspects of your relationship and sexual life together may help you to make decisions that you both feel comfortable with. And when couples feel comfortable with their sexual decisions, they also expand the possibilities for sexual pleasure and enjoyment.</itunes:summary>
		<itunes:keywords>Birth,Control,,Content,Type,,Podcast</itunes:keywords>
		<itunes:author>aschweig@indiana.edu</itunes:author>
		<itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
		<itunes:block>No</itunes:block>
	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Q&amp;A: Birth Control And Sexual Health Resources</title>
		<link>http://kinseyconfidential.org/birth-control-sexual-health-resources/</link>
		<comments>http://kinseyconfidential.org/birth-control-sexual-health-resources/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 19 Sep 2008 00:16:19 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Dr. Debby Herbenick (M.P.H., Ph.D.)</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Birth Control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Content Type]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Podcast]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[birth control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[condom use]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[contraception]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[planned parenthood]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sexual health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sexual health resources]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sexuality]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.kinseyconfidential.org/2008/09/18/qa-new-to-sex-where-can-i-learn-about-birth-control-and-sexuality/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I am a virgin but my boyfriend is not. I'm ready to have sex and though we've been sexually active in other ways I have a lot of questions about penetrative sex for a virgin. My boyfriend wants me to feel as comfortable and informed as possible – where can we learn about birth control options and sexuality issues?]]></description>
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		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		<enclosure url="http://podcastdownload.npr.org/anon.npr-podcasts/podcast/385/510276/94747560/WFIU_94747560.mp3" length="1405224" type="audio/mpeg"/>
<itunes:duration>2:47</itunes:duration>
		<itunes:subtitle>Great question! I think it is really wise that you two are communicating so carefully about sex before having it, and that you are both ...</itunes:subtitle>
		<itunes:summary>Great question! I think it is really wise that you two are communicating so carefully about sex before having it, and that you are both focused on feeling comfortable so that you can enjoy your experience together.
Your Healthcare Provider
The best place to go for information related to birth control options is your healthcare provider as he or she make recommendations based not only on your preferences for birth control but also on any personal health issues.

If you are a college student, your campus health clinic will likely have a womenrsquo;s health or gynecology clinic and you may be able to start there, if you donrsquo;t already have a healthcare provider. Planned Parenthoodrsquo;s web site can also be used to find a healthcare provider in your area.
Planned Parenthood
Ahead of time, you can learn basic information about contraceptive options on the Planned Parenthood web site. They have comprehensive information available related to various types of birth control such as the male condom, female condom, natural family planning, birth control pills, the birth control ring, the shot, and more.

You can also learn some of this information elsewhere on our web site (especially in our sexual health resource pages), as well as detailed information about many sexuality issues relating to communication, making sex comfortable, negotiating condom use, dealing with differences in desire and more.
Recommended Reading
In addition, the book Our Bodies, Ourselves by the Boston Womenrsquo;s Health Book Collection provides a comprehensive overview of sexual health issues and is worth reading for both women and men. The Guide to Getting It On also provides some information on a range of sexuality topics for both sexes, and regardless of experience level.
Contact Us
If you have further or more specific questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.</itunes:summary>
		<itunes:keywords>Birth,Control,,Content,Type,,Podcast</itunes:keywords>
		<itunes:author>aschweig@indiana.edu</itunes:author>
		<itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
		<itunes:block>No</itunes:block>
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		<title>What Are The Best Condoms To Use Or The Safest?</title>
		<link>http://kinseyconfidential.org/best-condoms-safest-condom/</link>
		<comments>http://kinseyconfidential.org/best-condoms-safest-condom/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 07 Aug 2008 23:45:29 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Dr. Debby Herbenick (M.P.H., Ph.D.)</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Birth Control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blog Post]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Content Type]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[condoms]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[contraception]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[forms of contraception]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.kinseyconfidential.org/2008/08/07/ever-wondered-what-type-of-condom-is-the-best-or-most-safest-to-use/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Ever wondered what type of condom is the best or safest to use? If so, you're not alone! Recently someone asked me for information on the topic; you can read my response here.]]></description>
		<wfw:commentRss>http://kinseyconfidential.org/best-condoms-safest-condom/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Correct Condom Usage</title>
		<link>http://kinseyconfidential.org/correct-condom-usage/</link>
		<comments>http://kinseyconfidential.org/correct-condom-usage/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 24 May 2008 21:53:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Samantha Seeger</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Birth Control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blog Post]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Content Type]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[condoms]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[contraception]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[correct condom usage]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[product quality]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sexscience]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.kinseyconfidential.org/2008/05/20/correct-condom-usage/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Male condoms sometimes get a bad reputation for breaking easily, which may or may not be warranted. Condoms are broken easiest when they are used improperly.]]></description>
		<wfw:commentRss>http://kinseyconfidential.org/correct-condom-usage/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>What Will They Think Of Next? New Birth Control For Men.</title>
		<link>http://kinseyconfidential.org/what-will-they-think-of-next/</link>
		<comments>http://kinseyconfidential.org/what-will-they-think-of-next/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 17 May 2008 22:52:45 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Samantha Seeger</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Birth Control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blog Post]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Content Type]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[birth control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[birth control pill for men]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[birth control pills]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[research]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.kinseyconfidential.org/2008/05/17/what-will-they-think-of-next/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There's still a long way to go, but researchers have been working on a new form of birth control (for men!). ]]></description>
		<wfw:commentRss>http://kinseyconfidential.org/what-will-they-think-of-next/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
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