We get many questions asking us what is the right method of Birth Control. This is an Article to help you decide what is best for you.
Everything You wanted to know about Contraceptives
Today, there are many options for birth control. Today contraceptives are not only about Birth control as their roles have grown from birth control to protection from sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
Given below are the different methods and mediums of contraception:
Male condoms:
A male condom is a thin sheath made of latex (rubber), polyurethane (plastic) or animal membrane. Worn by a man over his penis, it acts as a physical barrier to keep the sperm from entering the cervix and reaching the egg in the ovum of the female. It protects both partners from STDs. Condoms come in different sizes, colours and even flavours, and should be stored away from heat and light. Always check the expiry date before use.
Female condoms:
These are a relatively new entrant in the market and the choice is limited. They are more expensive than male condoms. They are tougher and drastically reduce the risk of breakage. You should never use them with a male condom.
Intra-uterine devices (IUDs):
An IUD is a copper coil fitted in the woman's womb that does not allow the sperm to meet the egg. Popularly called Copper T, it is a good alternative to hormone pills. The chemicals in the device change the uterine lining to prevent implantation of eggs. It can be effective for three to 10 years, depending on the kind of device used. The human body may resent a foreign object initially, causing some pain. A wrongly inserted IUD could cause pelvic inflammation or puncture the uterus. Maintain good hygiene and medical care if you're using one. They are cost-effective as they can be used for a longer period of time.
Oral contraceptive pills (OCPs):
They are ideal for women who want to be sexually active but want a worry-free method of birth control. When taken as directed by a doctor, they offer nearly 100 percent protection against pregnancy.
Oral contraceptives, known as “The Pill”, contain two synthetic female hormones (estrogen and progesterone) which prevent pregnancy by inhibiting the monthly release of the “egg” from the ovaries. Oral contraceptives are almost 100% effective when taken correctly. To be absolutely safe, you should use a second form of contraception the first seven days of the first cycle.
Birth control pills do not completely protect a woman from getting sexually transmitted diseases.
Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs):
As the name suggests, they should be taken only in times of emergency and cannot replace OCPs. The current treatment schedule is one dose within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse, and a second dose 12 hours after the first dose. ECP should be taken as soon after unprotected intercourse as is practical.
Tubectomy or Vasectomy:
Tubectomy or vasectomy is the safest option once you have achieved the desired family size. But the procedure is largely irreversible. These procedures are usually done after the family is complete. In rare cases, even after a tubectomy, the sperm can find its way inside and lead to a complicated pregnancy. That makes vasectomy a better method of contraception.
Tubal Sterilization or Tubectomy is a permanent method of contraception where the fallopian tubes are blocked so that the ova or eggs are prevented from traveling to the uterus from the ovary.
During a vasectomy, the vas deferens from each testicle is clamped, cut, or otherwise sealed. This prevents sperm from mixing with the semen. A vasectomy is a permanent method of birth control. Only consider this method when you are sure that you do not want to have a child in the future.
Make an informed choice
Frequency of sex: If frequency of sex is low, condoms are the best option. You would not want to be on OCPs if you're having sex only once in a few months.
Number of partners: If you have multiple partners, use a method that protects against STDs. This means that an IUD, spermicides or injectables are not enough for you. You need condoms.
Mutual assent: The choice of contraception should be discussed mutually by both partners and responsibility should be shared.
Health and family history: Inform your gynaecologist about family medical history, especially your mother's, as there may be contra-indications with some types of contraceptives. This is vital in case there is a history of smoking, breast cancer, diabetes or heart disease, which can be aggravated by OCPs or injectables.