Birth control or contraception is used to prevent pregnancy. With so many options available, deciding the reliable method depends upon several factors such as:
- Personal preferences
- The overall health of both partners
- Frequency of intercourse
- Number of sex partners
- History of STIs or STDs
Types of Birth Control Methods
Before considering any birth control method, you should speak to your health care provider and partner to understand the possible consequences.
Some usual birth control options available include:
Hormonal Method
Pills, injections, patches, and vaginal rings are some hormonal methods of birth control. These methods are most effective if used correctly; however, they do not protect against STIs.
Some may even increase the risk for heart attack, blood pressure, stroke, blood clots, and tumor for people who are:
- Over 35 years old
- Overweight
- Smoke and drink
- Have a history of blood clotting diseases
Barrier Method
These methods prevent sperm from getting into the uterus. It includes the usage of male and female condoms and diaphragm.
Male Condom: A latex or non-latex covering used over the penis to stop sperm from entering the uterus.
If used correctly, they are considered the most effective.
Female Condom: A loose pouch made of latex or plastic having rings at each end. It sits in the vagina to help prevent sperm from entering the uterus.
Diaphragm: Small silicon cups are inserted in the vagina to stop the semen from entering the uterus.
According to CDC, it is 83% effective. However, it can cause severe infection, allergies, and risk for STDs.
Male and Female Sterilization
These fall under the category of permanent birth control methods.
In female sterilization or tubal ligation, a woman can have her fallopian tube tied through surgery. Through this process, sperms and eggs can’t meet for fertilization.
Male sterilization or commonly referred to as Vasectomy, is a process that blocks vas deferens, a tube that carries sperm. It is done through surgery, and a man can recover in less than a week.
Emergency Contraception
It is not a birth control method but works best if other methods fail, such as a broken condom or if you have unprotected sex.
Copper IUD: A copper IUD fitted within five days of unprotected sex can prevent pregnancy.
Emergency contraceptive pills: There are also known as the morning-after pill. Women can take them up to five days after unprotected sex for maximum effectiveness.
Start Consultation with FastDocNow Today
FastDocNow is where all your questions will be answered and taken care of. You can visit FastDocNow or book an appointment with our online doctor and various healthcare services.