8 Blue for Your Health Summer 2025 5 things to know about birth control If you’re sexually active and want to delay becoming pregnant, it’s important to use birth control. Here are five key facts you should know. ■Most types of birth control do not protect you from sexually transmitted infections (STIs). ■It’s best to use two forms of birth control. Use a condom plus another form of birth control every time you have sex. This could be a pill, patch, ring, or other method. Follow the instructions for any form you use. ■Contraception takes two. Talk with your partner about contraception before sex. ■Emergency birth control can be an option in some situations. You might be able to use it if your normal method didn’t work or if you didn’t use any birth control during sex. Emergency birth control shouldn’t be used as your regular form of contraception. ■There are many birth control options. When choosing which methods to use, think about ease of use, cost, effectiveness, and potential side effects. Consider your reproductive health goals, such as whether you want children and—if so—when. Your health care provider can help you understand your options. Overcoming stigma and pausing substance use while pregnant When pregnant, it’s important to do all you can to be sure you and the baby are healthy. Certain substances, such as opioids, alcohol, or amphetamines, can be harmful to you and your baby. Deciding to quit may be helpful to the health of your pregnancy. It may seem hard, and some tough feelings might come up. You may feel as though others might judge you or not understand your circumstances. Get help Don’t let that stand in the way of getting help. There is help, and you are not alone. There are people who want to help without judging or shaming. Having supportive professionals around helps you feel more confident about getting treatment. It can help you feel stronger and more able to make positive changes. BCBSNM has help available to you so that you can feel safe and supported in your health journey and for the health of your growing baby. Call the Member Services number on the back of your membership card (866-689‑1523) for assistance. Possible resources include: ■Scheduling a virtual counseling appointment via MD LIVE at mdlive.com. ■Support groups at postpartum.net/get-help/ psi-online-support-meetings. Visit rebrand.ly/bcbs-nm-video or scan the QR code to watch a short video on how to start and succeed at substance use treatment.
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