What type of birth control is right for me?

There is no ‘best choice’ of birth control that works for everyone. You have to decide what will work best for you. Look at the options and decide on a method that feels right for you.

There are many things to consider when choosing a form of birth control. Some people need to consider such things as effectiveness, side effects, ease of use, accessibility, cost, possible allergies or other medical conditions, and comfort levels around inserting certain methods vaginally or taking hormones.

Choosing a birth control method that works for you may require some planning. It should be something that you feel comfortable with. As you move into different stages in your life your birth control needs may change. Remember, you can always switch methods if your circumstances change or if you are having concerns.

Some possible questions both men and women may want to consider when choosing a method that’s right for them are:

• How effective is this method?
• Can I use this method, or do I have to rely on a partner to use it effectively?
• Does this method protect against Sexually Transmitted Infections?
• How is this method used? Does it fit my needs and lifestyle?
• Does this method have any side effects? If yes, what are they?
• What is the cost of this method?
• How available is this method and where can I find it?
• How will this method affect my ability to have or cause a pregnancy in the future?
• Do I have an allergy or medical condition that will affect my ability to use this method?
• How do I feel about applying this method to my body?
• How do I feel about taking hormones or my partner having to take hormones?

You may want to speak to a health professional about your options or to discuss your concerns or questions.

If you would like more information about the different forms of birth control that are available please check out the birth control section of our website or call or email to speak to one of our counsellors.

403-283-5580
generalmail@calgarysexualhealth.ca

Pushing boundaries. Making cracks.

"There is a crack in everything 

That's how the light gets in."

~ Leonard Cohen

This year we celebrated our 40th anniversary of serving the Calgary community. I have had the chance to reflect and reminisce with many of our supporters over the past year at our various celebrations, and I would like to share some of my thoughts.

We began as a grassroots volunteer organization back in 1972, with our work focused on improving access to birth control and increasing support for women facing unplanned pregnancies. Ours was, and continues to be, a leading voice in the city promoting access to choice and advocating on behalf of women.

Our pioneering work to bring sex education into schools began in 1975. Our broad and comprehensive approach, which went beyond anatomical nuts and bolts, and recognized the vital importance of teaching sexuality was a challenge at that time. It is a challenge we have faced ever since.

Our society remains uncomfortable and silent about sex and sexuality, yet it is such an important and encompassing part of our lives. That is why we need community support to continue our essential work.

At the CSHC, we work every day to shine a light on this shame-based culture and the harm that it causes. Our award-winning programming has grown and responded over the past 40 years to the growing and changing needs of our community. We are honoured to work with a variety of Calgarians, providing sexual and reproductive health resources and support to youth, women, the LGBT community, older adults, young men, the disability community, new Canadians, and more.

In our 40 years we have found that the more work we do to educate our community, the more we make cracks into new areas that need support. The cultural shifts necessary to ensure that everyone has access to the non-judgmental services and information they need won't happen overnight. We will continue to face opposition.

We've come a remarkably long way - made a lot of cracks - but we need to keep going.

We invite you to support our work by making a donation today. Your support gives us the freedom and ability to continue to push boundaries, reach new communities and make new cracks.

--> Donate online via Canada Helps    

--> Donations by mail, phone or in person

Thank you for your support of our work promoting healthy sexuality in our community.

Sincerely,

Pam Krause
Executive Director

Year End SALE! - Sexual Health Resource Centre

Year End SALE!

Save now at our Sexual Health Resource Centre!

Since 1991, the Sexual Health Resource Centre has been an important source of sexual health resources and teaching aids - serving professionals, educators and parents across Canada and around the world.


From now until the end of the year, all inventory is on SALE!

Birth Control Demonstration Kits - NOW $325 (save $50 off regular price)

Our top selling item! This educational resource comes in a custom-made nylon carrying case (19"x17.5"x4") that opens into a stand-up display. The kit contains demonstration samples and info pamphlets on all birth control methods and many additional resources on sexual health topics.

All other pamphlets, DVDs, woodies, and resources - NOW 10% OFF REGULAR PRICE

As Canada’s sexual health information marketplace, our Resource Centre is a comprehensive source of up-to-date and accurate sexual health information including books, pamphlets, educational kits, DVDs and other teaching aids. We are also continuously expanding our resource catalogue and building additional materials that are specific to Canada.

We invite you to visit us online to view our Resource Centre catalogue at www.calgarysexualhealth.ca/resource_centre.html .

Your purchases have a multiplier effect in promoting healthy sexuality!

When you purchase your sexual education resources with us, your funds help us deliver comprehensive and non-judgmental sexual health programs in our community. Its win-win.

We are a community-based organization with a 40 year legacy of providing access to nonjudgmental sexual and reproductive health services and supports across the lifespan.

For questions or assistance, please contact us at resources@calgarysexualhealth.ca or call 403-283-5580.

SALE ENDS December 31, 2012!

To place your order, visit www.calgarysexualhealth.ca/resource_centre.html