Birth Control has always been recognized as significant in preventing pregnancy throughout history. In ancient times, mechanical barriers within the vagina were relied upon to impede fertilization between male sperm and female eggs. Moreover, substances such as sea sponges, mixtures of crocodile dung and honey, quinine, rock salt, and alum were also employed. Despite modern advancements in contraceptive methods today, certain principles from antiquity continue to hold relevance.
The Natural Method, also known as the least effective form of birth control, involves a woman monitoring her menstrual cycle to determine her fertile days. This method is low-cost but requires the woman to avoid sex or use contraception on her ovulation days, which occur 14 days before her period. The effectiveness of this method is approximately 72%. Keeping a good record of the menstrual cycle is crucial for this method.
Spermicidal jelly, cream, or foam are self-administered forms of birth control that should be used consistently and correctly during every sexual encounter. It is important to carefully follow the provided instructions to ensure maximum effectiveness, as they have no known harmful effects. When used correctly, spermicides can provide up to 94% effectiveness.
Contraceptive pills, also known as oral contraception, are a popular method of birth control for women. These pills contain two hormones – oestrogen and progestogen – that prevent the monthly release of eggs from the ovary. Different types of pills are available, so if one doesn’t work, another may be suitable.
In addition to preventing pregnancy, contraceptive pills can reduce pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) and period pain while providing some protection against uterine and ovarian cancer. Unlike other contraception methods such as devices or spermicides, the pill does not interfere with sexual spontaneity.
However, it is important to have a complete medical history before starting this pill as certain conditions like high blood pressure, circulatory disease, or diabetes may make it unsuitable for some women. Women who are over 35 years old, smoke or are overweight may be advised to consider alternative contraceptives.
Taking the combined pill on time is crucial and exceeding a delay of 12 hours or taking it after vomiting or experiencing diarrhea can affect its reliability. Common side effects of contraceptive pills include nausea, headaches, and weight gain. It is important to be aware that certain medications, such as antibiotics, can reduce the effectiveness of contraceptive pills.It should be noted that these pills do not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections or HIV. Nevertheless, when taken correctly, the pill is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.
Before engaging in sexual intercourse, a woman can utilize a circular rubber dome, commonly known as a diaphragm or cap, to protect her cervix. The objective of this is to prevent the entry of sperm into the uterus. To enhance its efficacy, it is recommended to use it alongside a spermicide cream or jelly that contains a chemical capable of eliminating sperm. These creams or jellies need to be worn for several hours following intercourse before removal. The success rate associated with this approach is 87%.
Male condoms are thin latex or plastic barriers used to physically block sperm. They can be easily acquired from chemists or family planning clinics, and both men and women can carry them. These condoms aid in preventing cervical cancer and reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections, such as HIV.
To ensure efficacy, it is crucial to put male condoms on the penis before any contact with the vagina occurs. Care must be taken as they may slip off or tear. After ejaculation, it is advised for men to promptly withdraw and avoid spilling semen.
Using oil-based products like Vaseline and suntan oil with condoms should be avoided as they can potentially damage the material. The effectiveness of condoms varies from 94% to 98%, depending on proper usage.
Female condoms, which are made of thin polyurethane plastic, function by being inserted into the vagina to provide coverage for both the external area and prevent sperm from entering. Similar to male condoms, these can be inserted before sexual intercourse and offer numerous advantages. Additionally, they are more durable and compatible with oil-based products. Female condoms prove especially beneficial for women who experience allergic reactions to the spermicidal lubricants used in regular condoms. To ensure effectiveness, it is crucial to correctly insert the penis into the condom rather than between the condom and vaginal wall as a precaution against slipping. Ultimately, when utilized accurately, female condoms boast a 95% effectiveness rate.
Both male and female sterilization are permanent methods of contraception intended for individuals who believe their family is complete or have no intention of having children. The risk of unwanted pregnancy can be eliminated, providing couples with increased sexual freedom. It is essential to consider sterilization as a permanent decision and avoid proceeding if there are any doubts.
Female sterilization involves blocking and cutting the fallopian tubes to prevent eggs from meeting sperm. This procedure is typically performed at a hospital, requiring a small incision below the naval to access the tubes, which are then clipped. Sterilization does not impact sexual activity and offers immediate effectiveness. Some doctors may be hesitant to perform sterilization on young or single individuals without children.
Sterilization carries minimal risks of damaging other organs during the procedure but does not protect against sexually transmitted infections or HIV. If done at a young age, there is a potential future risk of ectopic pregnancy. This method has an effectiveness rate of 99%.
Male Sterilization, also known as vasectomy, is a permanent surgical technique that seals the vas deferens – the tubes responsible for carrying sperm. This procedure ensures that sperm is no longer present in semen during ejaculation. It’s important to note that orgasm and ejaculation are unaffected by this surgery.
The testicles continue to produce sperm after male sterilization, but it is unable to reach the penis and instead gets re-absorbed by the body. Male sterilization does not affect the production of male hormones or sex drive. This outpatient surgery typically takes 10-15 minutes and can be done at a hospital.
In contrast to female sterilization, it takes longer for male sterilization to fully take effect, and it may take several months for sperm to completely disappear from semen. Thus, an alternative contraceptive method should be used until tests confirm the absence of sperm in semen.
It’s important to note that sterilization does not protect against sexually transmitted infections or HIV. The effectiveness rate for male sterilization is 99%.
The IUD, or Intrauterine Device, is a small plastic and copper ‘T’-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus by a doctor. The procedure takes only a few minutes. Its purpose is to prevent the meeting of sperm and egg or hinder egg implantation in the womb. It starts working immediately after insertion and can stay in place for up to five years (or eight years for certain types). If unprotected intercourse or ovulation is expected, it can also function as an emergency contraception method within five days. However, women with multiple sexual partners are advised against using it due to increased infection risk. It may lead to heavier and more painful periods. Importantly, the IUD does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections or HIV. Its effectiveness ranges from 98% to 99%.
Using emergency contraception on a large scale can prevent about 1.7 million unintended pregnancies and 800,000 abortions each year. It is crucial for women to use emergency contraceptives as a backup method alongside their regular birth control. Numerous women around the world have effectively and safely used these contraceptives. The regimen consists of two doses: the first dose within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse, followed by a second dose after 12 hours. Despite being effective, this type of contraception often causes discomfort and induces vomiting and illness in individuals.
Around 50% of the 6 million pregnancies in the United States annually are unplanned, leading to about 1.4 million abortions and 1.1 million unintended births. Among teenagers, approximately 80% of pregnancies are not intended, with one out of every nine young women aged 15-19 getting pregnant each year, and over half of them becoming mothers. By raising awareness about contraceptives, we can decrease the amount of unforeseen pregnancies.
