Published May 19, 2022, 4:04 p.m. by None
Contraception, or birth control, is a method of preventing pregnancy. Methods of birth control can function in a variety of ways: Stopping sperm from reaching the eggs. Condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps, and contraceptive sponges are examples. Preventing fertilized eggs from being released from the ovaries. Birth control pills, patches, needles, vaginal rings, and emergency contraceptive tablets are all examples. IUDs are uterine implants that are placed in the uterus. They can be left in place for a long time. Sterilization prohibits someone from becoming pregnant or from being able to become pregnant through another person. Several things should influence your birth control decision. Your health, how often you have sexual activity, how many sexual partners you have, and whether or not you want to have children in the future are all factors to consider. Your doctor can assist you in determining the best method of birth control for you. According to the UN, only 842 million of the 1.9 billion Women of Reproductive Age (15-49 years) in the world used contraception in 2019. Various types of birth control There are numerous types of birth control available. Some are more effective than others. However, any form of birth control is preferable to none at all. Without birth control, people who have vaginal intercourse had an 85% chance of becoming pregnant within a year. Intermittent bleeding, mood swings, acne, weight gain, and changes in sex drive are all possible side effects, but they usually go away after a few months. The implant provides long-term protection that requires little thought. Vaginal Ring (NuvaRing) Vaginal Ring is a small, flexible, rubber ring that is inserted in to vagina to prevent pregnancy. This ring releases continuous doses of hormones; estrogen and progesterone, into the blood stream which prevents the physiological process that enables fertilization to take place. This method is safe and 99% effective. Women dissatisfied with other methods often prefer this method, as it’s the lowest level of hormones and has fewer side effects. The Shot Another long-term solution is administering medroxyprogesterone acetate, a contraceptive injection that contains the hormone progestin, also called ‘The Shot’. The Shot is an injection that is administered every three months which prevent ovulation i.e the release of egg from ovum. It is easy to use, safe for breastfeeding women and has the added benefit of being discrete. Side effects include changes in mood, appetite, and blood flow but these side effects usually subside within six months. IUD Intrauterine devices (IUD) are either hormone-free/copper or synthetic progestin devices that are inserted into the uterine by a trained doctor or gynecologist. These devices are T-shaped and are inserted into the uterine to prevent the sperm from coming in contact with fertilized egg. This method is highly effective and can be used for a long time with low maintenance option. It’s almost impossible to get this one wrong, tough cramps, spotting, and increased blood flow are possible side effects. Another bonus, it can be used while breastfeeding. Gel Phexxi is a non-hormonal birth control option that comes in the form of a gel. This gel is applied into the vagina before sex causing the increase in acidity of the vagina. This will reduce the sperm’s chance of survival and hence reducing the chance of getting pregnant. Phexxi was approved by the FDA in 2020 and has 93% efficiency if used correctly. Other Pills The progestin-only pill (AKA “mini-pill”), is great for women who can’t tolerate estrogen in their birth control. Additionally, the traditional (estrogen/progestin combo) pill is offered in a variety of brands that are equally effective but have different benefits and side effects for each woman. Bottom line: if there’s a chance you’ll be doing any sexy stuff that can lead to pregnancy, birth control is your friend.Birth control can seem like a scary phase for women and couples—very few people understand what birth control is. It is important to note the following: The birth control method does not change sexual behavior. Birth control does not cause birth defects or multiple births. You should arrange sessions with your gynecologist or medical practitioner to discuss your best birth control methods.
