Who Uses Birth Control?

* Women of reproductive age. Birth control is used by women of all ages, from adolescence to menopause. The most common age group for birth control use is between 15 and 44.

* Women who are not currently pregnant or breastfeeding. Birth control is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

* Women who are sexually active. Birth control is used by women who are sexually active with a partner who is able to get them pregnant.

* Women who want to prevent pregnancy. Birth control is the most effective way to prevent pregnancy.

* Women who have a medical condition that makes pregnancy risky. Birth control may be recommended for women who have a medical condition that makes pregnancy risky, such as heart disease, diabetes, or cancer.

* Women who want to delay pregnancy. Birth control may be used by women who want to delay pregnancy until they are older, have finished their education, or are financially stable.

* Women who want to space their pregnancies. Birth control may be used by women who want to space their pregnancies by at least 18 months.

* Women who are in a monogamous relationship. Birth control may be used by women who are in a monogamous relationship with a partner who is not able to get them pregnant.