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Nonoxynol-9: N-9 is a product that is used as spermicide in several common birth control methods, including diaphragms, condoms and spermicide creams.
Norplant: A reversible method of birth control that is no longer available on the market. Six thin matchstick sized implants are inserted under the skin of the upper arm where hormones are released.
Nuva Ring: The Nuva Ring is a contraceptive ring that is inserted into vagina once a month. The ring stays in for three weeks; when removed, your period occurs. Each month you use a new ring. The ring is about 2 inches in diameter, rubbery and comfortable to use. It stays within the walls of the vagina by itself. It cannot get lost inside of you, nor will it fall out.
Oral Sex: Sexual activity involving the mouth and a sex organ.
Ovulation: Ovulation is the process in the female body during which eggs are developed and released into the fallopian tube.
Pill: Taken daily, the pill is a combination of hormones (estrogen and progesterone), which prevent ovulation and/or thicken the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg (depending on which type of pill). There are several different pills available.
Patch: A thin plastic patch about the size of a matchbook that sticks on your skin. You change it once a week and uses hormones similar to those in the pill.
Pre-Ejaculate: Also known as pre-cum, it is the liquid that comes out of the penis before ejaculation when the man is aroused. Pre-ejaculate is thought to carry a small number of sperm, and while it is unlikely, it can possibly lead to pregnancy.
Pull-Out Method: The pull-out or withdrawal method is when a man pulls his penis out of the vagina before ejaculating.
Semen: A fluid containing sperm that is released from the penis during sexual climax. Also known as "cum."
Sperm: Male reproductive cells that are released during sexual climax.
Spermicide: Spermicides can come in solid or liquid forms, like creams, jellies, foams and suppositories; and are inserted into the vagina right before intercourse. The spermicide dissolves, forming a barrier that prevents sperm from reaching the uterus.
Sponge: The sponge is round and soft, about 2 inches wide. Before having intercourse, the sponge is inserted into the vagina. There is a string attached to it, so it can be removed like a tampon. The sponge contains spermicide and surrounds the cervix, so the sperm can't reach the egg.
Sterilization: Sterilization is a surgical procedure that permanently prevents reproductive organs from working, so there is no chance of pregnancy. The male surgery is called a "vasectomy" and blocks the tubes that carry sperm. The female surgery is called "tubal sterilization," but is more commonly referred to as "getting your tubes tied."
STI: STI stands for Sexually Transmitted Infection. STI is another word for STD (sexually transmitted disease). Common STIs include trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, HPV, genital herpes and Chlamydia.
Testosterone: A sex hormone, present in higher levels in males than females.
Uterus: The female sex organ, where pregnancy normally develops and from where women get their periods. Also called "the womb."
Virgin: Someone who has never engaged in sexual intercourse.
Vulva: The collective external female sex organs, including the clitoris, labia and the opening of the vagina.
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