CONTRACEPTION
Nowadays Educated and aware married couple use different methods of family planning and it can be effectively done by the use of contraceptives.
Contraceptives, also known as birth control methods, are medications or devices that are used to prevent pregnancy. They work by interfering with the normal reproductive process in various ways. There are many different types of contraceptives available, each with its own advantages, disadvantages, and suitability for different individuals and couples.
Types of Contraceptives
Contraceptives can be broadly classified into two main categories :
Hormonal Methods
Barrier Methods
Hormonal methods work by releasing hormones that disrupt the normal menstrual cycle and prevent ovulation, the release of an egg from the ovary. These methods include:
Combined oral contraceptives (COCs): These pills contain a combination of estrogen and progestin hormones. They prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus to make it more difficult for sperm to reach the egg, and thin the lining of the uterus to make it less receptive to implantation.
Progestin-only pills (POPs): Women who cannot take estrogen progestin-only pills strictly recommended by health workers . They work by thickening cervical mucus and thinning the uterine lining.
Implants : Implants are small, flexible rods are inserted under the skin of the upper arm and release progestin over a period of 3 to 5 years
Intrauterine devices (IUDs): IUDs are small, T-shaped devices are inserted into the uterus and release either progestin or copper. They can prevent pregnancy for up to 10 years.
Injections: These injections contain progestin and are administered every 3 months.
Barrier methods work by physically preventing sperm from reaching the egg. These methods include:
Condoms: Condoms are thin, flexible sheaths are worn over the penis to prevent sperm from entering the vagina. This method is also effective in preventing the transmission of sexually transmitted infections .
Diaphragms: Shallow cups made of silicone are inserted into the vagina before intercourse to cover the cervix and prevent sperm from entering the uterus are called Diaphragms.
Cervical caps: These small, dome-shaped cups are made of silicone or latex and are inserted into the vagina before intercourse to fit over the cervix and prevent sperm from entering the uterus.
Spermicides: These foams, gels, creams, or films contain chemicals that kill sperm. They are often used in combination with other barrier methods, such as condoms or diaphragms.
Effectiveness of Contraceptives
The effectiveness of different contraceptives varies. The most effective methods are implants, IUDs, and injections, which have a typical use failure rate of less than 1%. Oral contraceptives, vaginal rings, and the patch have a typical use failure rate of about 3%. Barrier methods are less effective, with condoms having a typical use failure rate of about 2% and diaphragms and cervical caps having a typical use failure rate of about 6%.
The effectiveness of contraceptives can also be affected by how well they are used. For example, if pills are not taken at the same time each day or if condoms are not worn correctly, their effectiveness can be reduced.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Contraceptives
Each type of contraceptive has its own advantages and disadvantages. Some of the general advantages of contraceptives include:
They can prevent pregnancy, which can help to reduce the risk of unplanned births and abortions.
They can help to regulate menstrual cycles.
Some methods can be expensive.
Most of the methods may not be suitable for everyone, such as women with certain medical conditions.
Choosing a Contraceptive
The best contraceptive for a woman depends on her individual needs and preferences. It is important to talk to a healthcare provider to discuss the different options and find the method that is right for her.
Additional Considerations
In addition to the type of contraceptive, there are other factors to consider when choosing a birth control method. These factors include:
Medical history: A healthcare provider will review a woman’s medical history to determine if there are any medical conditions that could be affected by contraception.
Sexual history: A healthcare provider will also discuss a woman’s sexual history to determine her risk of STIs and recommend appropriate protection.
Lifestyle: A healthcare provider will consider a woman’s lifestyle, such as her smoking habits and alcohol consumption, when recommending a contraceptive method.
Cost: The cost of different contraceptives can vary significantly.
Contraceptives are an important tool for women who want to control their fertility and prevent unplanned pregnancy.
Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs)
COCs are the most common type of hormonal birth control. They contain a combination of estrogen and progestin hormones. COCs work by preventing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to make it more difficult for sperm to reach the egg, and thinning the lining of the uterus to make it less receptive to implantation
Advantages:
Highly effective in preventing pregnancy
Can regulate menstrual cycles
Can reduce the risk of certain health problems, such as ovarian cancer and PID
Disadvantages:
Can cause side effects, such as irregular bleeding, weight gain, and nausea
May not be suitable for women with certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or clotting disorders
Do not protect against STIs
Progestin-Only Pills (POPs)
POPs contain only progestin and are often recommended for women who cannot take estrogen. They work by thickening cervical mucus and thinning the uterine lining. POPs are slightly less effective than COCs, but they are still very effective in preventing pregnancy.
Advantages:
Safe for women who cannot take estrogen
Can help to regulate menstrual cycles
May reduce the risk of certain health problems, such as ovarian cancer and PID
Disadvantages:
Slightly less effective than COCs
Can cause side effects, such as irregular bleeding and spotting
Do not protect against STIs
Implants
Implants are small, flexible rods that are inserted under the skin of the upper arm. They release progestin over a period of 3 to 5 years. Implants are one of the most effective methods of birth control, and they have a very low failure rate.
Advantages
Highly effective in preventing pregnancy
Long-acting, lasting for 3 to 5 years
Convenient, as they do not require daily or monthly attention
Disadvantages:
Can cause side effects, such as irregular bleeding, weight gain, and headache
May not be suitable for women with certain medical conditions
Insertion and removal can be slightly uncomfortable
Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)
IUDs are small, T-shaped devices that are inserted into the uterus. They release either progestin or copper. IUDs can prevent pregnancy for up to 10 years. IUDs are one of the most effective methods of birth control, and they have a very low failure rate.
Advantages:
Highly effective in preventing pregnancy
Long-acting, lasting for up to 10 years
Reversible, allowing for pregnancy when desired
Disadvantages:
Can cause side effects, such as irregular bleeding and cramping
May increase the risk of certain infections, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
Insertion and removal can be slightly uncomfortable
Injections
Injections are progestin-only contraceptives that are administered every 3 months. Injections are one of the most effective methods of birth control, and they have a very low failure rate.
Advantages:
Highly effective in preventing pregnancy
Convenient, as they only require administration every 3 months
Disadvantages:
Can cause side effects, such as irregular bleeding, weight gain, and headache
May not be suitable for women with certain medical conditions
Injections can be slightly painful
Condoms
Condoms are thin, flexible sheaths that are worn over the penis to prevent sperm from entering the vagina. Condoms are also effective in preventing the transmission of STIs.
Advantages:
Effective in preventing pregnancy and STIs
No prescription required
Inexpensive
Disadvantages:
Can tear or slip
Can reduce sexual sensation for some people
Diaphragms
Diaphragms are shallow cups made of silicone that are inserted into the vagina before intercourse to cover the cervix and prevent sperm from entering the uterus. Diaphragms are most effective when used with spermicide.
Advantages
Effective in preventing pregnancy
Can be used when needed
Can be inserted up to 24 hours before intercourse
Disadvantages:
Require a prescription
Can be difficult to insert and remove properly
May not be suitable for women with certain medical conditions, such as prolapse of the uterus
Cervical Caps
Cervical caps are small, dome-shaped cups made of silicone or latex that are inserted into the vagina before intercourse to fit over the cervix and prevent sperm from entering the uterus. Cervical caps are most effective when used with spermicide.
Advantages:
Effective in preventing pregnancy
Can be used when needed
Female Condoms:
Female condoms, also known as internal condoms or femidoms, are a form of barrier contraception designed to be worn internally by women to prevent unwanted pregnancies and protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Types of Female Condoms:
There are different brands and types of female condoms, but they generally fall into two categories:
Polyurethane Female Condoms:
Made from thin, soft plastic (polyurethane).
Safe for people with latex allergies.
Can be used with both oil and water-based lubricants.
Nitrile Female Condoms:
Made from nitrile, a synthetic latex alternative.
Suitable for those with latex allergies.
Can be used with oil-based and water-based lubricants.
How to Use Female Condoms
Check the Expiration Date:
Always check the expiration date before use to ensure the condom is still effective.
Open the Package Carefully:
Be gentle when opening the package to avoid damaging the condom.
Find a Comfortable Position:
Many women find it easier to insert the female condom while squatting, standing with one foot elevated, or lying down.
Squeeze the Sides of the Inner Ring:
With the closed end of the female condom, squeeze the sides of the inner ring together to make it long and narrow.
Insert the Closed End:
Gently insert the closed end of the condom into the vagina, pushing it as far back as it will go. The inner ring should rest against the cervix.
Ensure the Outer Ring Covers the Vulva:
The outer ring should cover the area around the vaginal opening, providing additional protection.
During Intercourse:
The penis should be guided into the condom, ensuring it stays inside the condom throughout intercourse.
After Intercourse:
After intercourse, twist the outer ring to prevent spillage and gently pull the condom out. Dispose of it properly.
