It Takes Two

The focus on birth control and pregnancy prevention seems to be placed heavily on women because they are the people that actually become pregnant. In reality, however, it takes two to get to that point. Men play a large role in decision making about pregnancy prevention measures, however, they sometimes get forgotten. Here are some ways men can take an active role in pregnancy prevention:

• COMMUNICATE! Communication is key in any relationship, but when was the last time you talked about birth control? Is the method you are currently using working for you? Have you ever tried other methods? Determine your risk (for what? STI? Pregnancy?) and then investigate all the different methods out there that meet your needs. Sometimes adjusting your method of birth control is all you need (and can be a lot of fun)
• WHO IS BUYING? Do you split the cost? (Planned Parenthood of Delaware provides low and no cost birth control options.) Is it a certain partner’s responsibility to purchase the birth control? These are things you and your partner should determine early on in the relationship.
• DETERMINE YOUR ROLE. What if your partner did get pregnant? Would you be a part of the decision making on what to do? Would you consider adoption? Would you be supportive if your partner decided to carry to term or terminate the pregnancy? Things to consider: From a legal perspective, the ultimate decision about the pregnancy is the woman’s, she cannot be forced to either carry to term or terminate the pregnancy.
  

So have the conversation with your partner. Now. Remember, there are consequences for both parties, and thus both should be involved in making those healthy decisions.
Planned Parenthood of Delaware offers a variety of services for men, including:

• Sexual and reproductive health check ups- Free condoms
• STD screening and testing, including a rapid HIV test
• HPV vaccine

To find out more about men’s sexual health and how to become more involved in pregnancy prevention check out Planned Parenthood’s website at http://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-topics/men-4285.htm