Birth control may prevent pregnancy, but it certainlydoesn’t prevent sexually transmitted diseases, in fact it mayeven be the catalyst in contracting one. A study, led by theresearch teams at the University of North Carolina and John HopkinsUniversity, has found that injected contraceptives likeDepo-Provera have a direct relation to STD contraction.

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After testing approximately 800 candidates, the study showedthat women using Depo-Provera were three times as likely to havechlamydia or gonorrhea. The study adjusted for differentlifestyles, condom use, number of partners and sexual actsperformed and, regardless, the candidates who used Depo-Proverawere more likely to contract the two STDs.

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Researchers acknowledge that no method of birth control isprotection against STDs, but according to the study, injectedcontraception makes the body more susceptible.Depo-Provera ispopular among sexually active adolescents and young adults. Itrequires one shot every three months, and no daily pill that has tobe taken.

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The results of the study don’t conclude that everyDepo-Provera user will contract an STD. Health educator LorraineMartinez said, it depends on your lifestyle.

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“Getting an STD has to do with someone’s lifestylechoices, mainly if they aren’t using condoms,” Martinezsaid. “We don’t think of any one method as making youmore susceptible.”

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Lifestyle, number of partners, reaction to different levels ofhormones and consistency to take medication are all factors thatwomen should consider when choosing the right birth control method.Martinez said, Depo-Provera is a good choice for someone whocan’t remember to take a pill every day.

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Depo-Provera, as well as oral contraceptives and the patch, areall available at the Student Health Center through the Family Pactprogram, which is free for students who meet the criteria.

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“When a student enrolls in Family Pact there’s aconsultation on the different types of contraception, as well assafe sex supplies provided,” Martinez said.

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Students can also make an appointment with a health educator whowill go over each birth control method in detail.Until furtherstudy is conducted, women should seek further education on thetopic and remain cautious. For more information visit the HealthEducation Department at the Sacramento State Health Center or call278-5422.