Contraception: An Overview
Contraception: An Overview
Contraception: An Overview
The term contraception refers to the intentional act of preventing, or reducing the chances of, pregnancy by using prescription medications, chemical agents, devices, sexual behavior, or surgical techniques. These various methods vary in levels of efficacy, safety, and adverse side effects. When choosing a method of contraception, commonly called birth control, you should candidly discuss your needs and ideal family size with your OB/GYN. She will consider your individual lifestyle and needs in conjunction with your health status and medical history and help you choose the best method.
Condoms: Not Just for Males
One of the oldest contraceptive devices is the male condom, which was made of animal intestines in ancient times. Condoms, a sheath usually made of thin latex, fit snugly over the erect penis and serve to allow physical stimulation while preventing the sperm-filled ejaculate from entering the female body. While historians have evidence of condom use in ancient times, the female condom is a relatively new contraceptive device. Made of a thin sheath of polyurethane, the female condom has a flexible ring at both ends; one ring is closed and inserted into the vagina before intercourse. The open-ended ring stays outside the vagina. The male condom is far more popular than the female version.
Spermicidal Agents
Spermicides, such as nonoxynol-9, work to both kill sperm and prevent the sperm from travelling up the vaginal canal to the cervix. Spermicides are available in foam, creams, and gels; all of which are introduced into the vagina, prior to intercourse, through an applicator similar to those used to insert tampons. However, used alone, spermicides are not sufficiently effective in pregnancy prevention. Increase the pregnancy prevention efficacy of both spermicide and condoms by using them in combination.
Diaphragms and Other Devices
Diaphragms
A diaphragm is a dome-like cup that fits over the cervix inside the vagina. The device blocks sperm from reaching the cervix and fertilizing an egg. For diaphragms to work reliably, it must fit properly. An OB/GYN doctor can measure the vagina and cervical area to prescribe a diaphragm that delivers the best results. Used alone, diaphragms are not very effective in pregnancy prevention. They are much more effective when used in conjunction with a spermicidal agent.
Vaginal Hormonal Ring
The vaginal hormonal ring is inserted into the vagina and stays there for three weeks. After three weeks, patients will wait one week before inserting a new ring. Those being treated for endometriosis or other gynecological issues may need to insert a new ring right away without waiting a week. The ring contains a combination of the hormones estrogen and progestin and is 98 percent effective in preventing pregnancy if used correctly.
Hormonal Implants and Patches
Both of these methods use hormonal combinations similar to those in the vaginal hormonal ring. Both are very effective in preventing pregnancy. The patch is changed every seven days for three weeks and not used during week four. Hormonal implants are implanted beneath the skin, usually in the upper arm. Patients wear the implant continuously. The implants are 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy for up to three years.
Contraceptive Pills
Contraceptive pills, commonly known as birth control pills, contain a combination of the hormones estrogen and progestin, just like the hormonal ring. Taken properly and as directed, the birth control pill is 95 percent effective in preventing pregnancy. Women using the pill take it for three weeks and wait one week before beginning a new pack.
Intrauterine Device (IUD)
There are several types of IUDs available; only an OB/GYN can determine which type is right for an individual. The IUD is inserted inside the uterus and is very effective in preventing pregnancy. Women should check that the IUD is properly in place every month after their menstrual cycles.
Birth Control A Decision for You and Your Doctor
Other birth control devices and methods exist that are not described in this brief overview. Discuss your current and future plans for a family with your physician or local OB/GYN clinic. He or she will work with you to determine the method that is the best for you and your contraception needs. Remember that no method, other than abstinence is 100 percent effective in preventing pregnancy. Consider and discuss the adjustments necessary when an unplanned pregnancy occurs.
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