Understanding Birth Control: A Crucial Aspect of Reproductive Health
Birth control plays a pivotal role in shaping the reproductive and overall health of both men and women.
It encompasses various methods designed to prevent conception or impede implantation.
According to WHO, between 2000 and 2020, the global contraceptive prevalence rate among women aged 15-49 increased from 47.7% to 49.0%.
From hormonal contraceptives to barrier methods, Intrauterine Devices (IUDs), and fertility awareness techniques, the array of options offers diverse solutions tailored to individual needs.
This article explores how birth control works, how to choose the best methods, and the types of birth control methods.
How birth control works
Birth control methods operate through various mechanisms, including:
- Preventing sperm from reaching an egg
- Stopping the egg from releasing from the ovary
- Damaging sperm to impede its ability to reach an egg
- Thickening cervical mucus hinders sperm movement
- Modifying the uterine lining thickness to prevent egg implantation
How to choose the best birth control method
Choosing the birth control method involves considering there are various factors tailored to your individual preferences and health.
Here are some factors to consider when selecting a birth control option:
- Consider how comfortable you are with the chosen method and whether it fits easily into your daily routine
- Research and choose a method that aligns with your preferences and lifestyle, keeping in mind the importance of consistent and correct use
- If protection against Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) is a concern, barrier methods such as condoms are essential
- Your age and health conditions can impact the suitability of certain birth control methods
- Consider your current and future family planning goals
- Some individuals may experience side effects, and certain health conditions may contraindicate specific forms of birth control
- Your sexual activity frequency and the number of partners can influence your choice
- Some birth control methods offer additional benefits, such as lighter periods, more predictable menstrual cycles, or improvements in acne
Types of birth control method
There are many types of birth control methods, which are long-term, short-term, emergency, and permanent.
These birth control methods include:
Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC)
LARC methods provide safe and effective contraception over an extended period.
They include implants and Intrauterine Devices (IUDs), available as copper IUDs lasting 5-10 years or hormonal IUDs lasting 5 years.
They are 99% effective at preventing pregnancy and requires less frequent replacement than other methods.
They do not protect against STIs. Implants last for 3 years, IUDs for 5-10 years, and both can be easily removed, allowing for future pregnancy.
Short-acting hormonal methods
There are many short-acting hormonal methods, such as
- Progestin injection (DepoProvera): It is a shot containing Progestin taken every three months
- Contraceptive vaginal ring: A ring with combined Progestin and Estrogen hormones placed in the vagina. It is 93% effective, and you get lighter periods and less cramping
- Contraceptive patch: A patch with combined Estrogen and Progestin absorbed through the skin. It is less effective for people who are overweight or obese
- Combined oral contraceptive pills: These pills contain both Estrogen and Progestin, and they must be taken daily
- Progestin-only oral contraceptive pills: These pills only contain Progestin, and they have lower hormonal side effects
Barrier methods
Barrier methods serve as a frontline defense in preventing pregnancy by obstructing sperm from reaching the egg.
These methods offer various options for individuals seeking contraception.
- Diaphragm with spermicide: It is a dome-shaped device made from silicone that covers the cervix
- Sponge with spermicide: It is available over the counter, it is a disk-shaped polyurethane device that’s inserted into the vagina, and it protects for up to 24 hours
- Cervical cap with spermicide: It is a snug-fitting latex or silicone cup placed around the cervix, and it can stay up to 48 hours
- Male condoms: They are thin sheaths placed over the erect penis. They significantly reduce the risk of both pregnancy and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
- Female condom: It is a lubricated pouch inserted into the vagina before intercourse. While it is less popular, it offers protection against pregnancy and STIs
- Dental dam: Latex or synthetic sheet used as a barrier during oral sex. It protects oral sex
- Spermicide alone: It comes in various forms like foam, cream, or jelly, inserted into the vagina before sex. It can be used alone or in combination with other barrier methods
Emergency contraception
It serves as a crucial option for preventing pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse.
Timing plays a pivotal role in its effectiveness, with all forms being more successful when used promptly, ideally within six hours of intercourse.
Levonorgestrel (Plan B Onestep, NextChoice) is an oral emergency contraception containing Progestin.
It’s available over-the-counter without age restrictions, ensuring accessibility for adolescents and adults alike.
Additionally, the Intrauterine Device (IUD), when inserted by a healthcare provider within five days of unprotected sex, offers another emergency contraception method.
Sterilization surgery
Sterilization methods for both women and men are effective, permanent forms of contraception.
While reversal is possible in some cases, it’s not always guaranteed, making these methods suitable for individuals who are certain about their reproductive choices.
These methods include:
- Tubal ligation: This involves tying and cutting the fallopian tubes, blocking the pathway for eggs to meet sperm. The risks involve pain, bleeding, infection, or other complications post-surgery and no protection against (STIs)
- Vasectomy: It is a one-time surgery for men that blocks the vas deferens, the tubes carrying sperm from the testes, and takes about three months for all sperm to clear from the system. The risks involve pain, bleeding, and infection
Birth control and STI prevention
The two primary methods for preventing Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), including HIV, are male and female condoms.
While condoms are effective in preventing STIs, they are not the most reliable form of birth control.
Dual protection, using condoms for STI prevention, along with a more effective birth control method like IUDs, implants, or shots, is recommended.
How can you get birth control
You can get birth control methods by prescription or without a prescription.
Over-the-counter birth control
Certain birth control methods can be obtained without a prescription.
These include male and female condoms, sponges, spermicides, and emergency contraception pills like Plan B One-Step.
Prescription required
Several birth control methods require a prescription, including oral contraceptives (the pill), patches, vaginal rings, diaphragms, shots, cervical caps, implantable rods, and IUDs.
Looking for a reliable and convenient solution for confident family planning?
Get the best oral contraceptives from WowRx now
YasminFemilonThese methods often involve hormonal regulation and should be discussed with a professional to determine the most suitable option.
Additional health benefits
Research indicates that hormonal birth control can offer benefits beyond contraception.
Users may experience the following benefits:
- More regular and lighter periods
- Fewer menstrual cramps and reduced acne
- Lower risk of ovarian, Endometrial, and colon cancers
- Lower risk of pelvic inflammatory disease and noncancerous ovarian cysts
- Reduce chances of iron-deficiency anemia
Conclusion
Birth control represents an essential component of reproductive healthcare, offering a wide spectrum of methods tailored to individual needs.
The comprehensive options include hormonal contraceptives, barrier methods, and long-acting reversible contraceptives.
Factors such as lifestyle, health circumstances, family planning aspirations, and method compatibility should be considered while making birth control choices.
Birth control methods like barrier methods not only prevent unplanned pregnancies but also safeguard against Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs).
They not only prevent pregnancies but also help with menstrual irregularities, reducing discomfort and reducing the risk of cancers like ovarian, endometrial, and colon.
Frequently Asked Questions
WowRx uses only high-quality sources while writing our articles. Please read our content information policy to know more about how we keep our content reliable and trustworthy.
