Birth control, also known as contraception, refers to pregnancy prevention. There are different methods. Hormonal birth control methods prevent ovaries from releasing ova or preventing sperms from reaching the ovum. They include the pill, shot, IUD, Nexplanon, vaginal ring, and patch. Barrier methods prevent sperms from reaching the egg, and they are condoms, spermicide, diaphragms, and cervical caps. The rhythm method involves tracking the menstrual cycles, and injectables include progestin shots.
Here are the safest and most effective contraceptive methods
1. Birth control implants
Birth control implants, such as Nexplanon (an etonogestrel birth control implant), is placed in the arm. It is small, thin, flexible, and it is plastic and about a matchstick’s size. Healthcare providers insert the implant under the skin of the arm. It releases progestin hormone in the body, responsible for pregnancy prevention. Inserting an implant takes only a few minutes, after which you are bandaged. This bandage is removed after one day. Rare side effects include bleeding.
2. IUDs
The intrauterine device is a t shaped device that allows fertilization, but prevents implantation of the fertilized ovum in the uterine wall. The device creates an unfavorable environment for implantation in the womb’s lining tissues. It lasts from three to five years. This birth control method’s side effects are increased menstrual cramping and bleeding, uterus puncture, headaches, acne, and breast tenderness
3. Hormonal birth control pill or shot
A doctor gives a progestin shot. It lasts three months and has side effects such as bleeding, weight gain, belly discomforts, nervousness, and headaches. It delays ovulation up to a year even after it exhausts its period of effectiveness. Birth control pills contain both estrogen and progestin or progestin-only. Common side effects are weight gain, mood swings, dizziness, nausea, and bleeding
4. Condoms
There are both male and female condoms that come many forms (i.e., studded, glow-in-the-dark, and flavored, etc.). They are made of silicone, synthetic material, polyurethane, and natural animal membrane. The condom is supposed to hold semen and prevent it from entering the vagina. You should be careful to hold the base of the condom while removing the penis from the vagina to ensure there is no leakage. It is easy to use, cheap to buy, and prevents STDs. For the female condoms, they have rings on both ends for clitoris stimulation during sex. You need a lubricant to insert them, push the inner ring further deep like a tampon
5. Diaphragm
It is not very popular. It is a rubber dome inserted inside the vagina, over the cervix before sex. It blocks the uterus’ opening to prevent the sperms from reaching the egg. Inserting the birth control method is not easy. You need a doctor or specialist. It can be reused, unlike condoms. It has no hormonal effect, and it is conveniently used even when breastfeeding
6. Spermicide
It is a chemical responsible for sperms destruction, preventing them from reaching the ovum. They are available in several forms, creams, jellies, foams, and films. They are inserted in the vagina before sex to block the cervix and prevent sperms from going in and reaching the egg. This birth control method is better and more effective when used together with another one rather than by itself
The birth control methods have disadvantages and advantages, and it is advisable to consider them before deciding which one to try. Some have irreversible effects, and some offer protection from sexually transmitted diseases and prevent pregnancy at the same time. Some are more effective than others.
