Dear Marie27,

Yes. Used correctly, hormonal methods of birth control — the pill, patch, ring, and shot — are up to 99.7 percent effective against pregnancy. That means that pregnancy is possible but very unlikely. Withdrawing the penis before ejaculation can increase the effectiveness of whatever method is being used.

While hormonal birth control offers excellent pregnancy protection, it does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. Only latex and polyurethane condoms (male or female) reduce the risk of infection.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.