To avoid pregnancy, there are several choices in contraception. These are the most common contraception methods used today: Hormonal Contraception Methods
Hormonal contraception refers to methods of birth control that affect the hormonal system. Hormonal contraceptives may be introduced into the woman’s body in several different ways:
• Orally
• Vaginally
• Transdermally (absorbing through the skin)
• Injections
• Implants
Hormonal contraception may work in different ways:
• Ovulation stops
• Cervical mucus thickens (making sperm penetration harder)
• Endometrium thins (making the fertilized egg hard to implant)
Emergency Contraception
Emergency contraception consists of hormone pills which need to be taken within 72 hours after intercourse.
Hormonal Implant
Hormonal implants are small capsules inserted under the skin of a woman’s upper arm which release a tiny measure of hormones.
Hormonal Injection
Hormonal injections are shots which are injected into a woman via her arm or buttocks every one to three months.
Hormonal Patch
The hormonal patch is a thin patch which has hormones in it. The woman applies it to her skin once a week for three weeks and only takes it off during her period.
The Birth Control Pill
The birth control pill is a pretty effective birth control as long as the woman takes the pill every day at the same time.
Vaginal Ring
The vaginal ring contains hormones which prevent pregnancy. A woman inserts it vaginally, leaves it for three weeks, then removes it during her period.
Barrier Contraception Methods
Barrier methods keep sperm from getting to the egg.
Condoms
A condom is an elastic and waterproof cover used by men and women to prevent pregnancy by keeping semen from entering the woman.
Diaphragm
A diaphragm is a thin latex cup with a flexible rim which is inserted vaginally, fitting over the cervix and is held in place by the vaginal muscles. The diaphragm has spermicide in it to kill sperm, therefore preventing fertilization.
Other Contraception Methods
Abstinence
Abstinence means using “self-restraint” and not having any vaginal, oral, or anal intercourse. This is the only absolute 100% way to prevent a pregnancy, STD or disease.
Intra-Uterine Device (IUD)
The IUD is a small plastic object which is put in a woman’s uterus by a medical professional to prevent pregnancy.
Natural Family Planning
This method is best for married couples because you would have to know EXACTLY when to avoid having intercourse in order to avoid pregnancy. This only includes about 5 or 6 days in the month.
Spermicides
Spermicides include: creams, foams, jelly or inserts which a woman inserts vaginally before intercourse.
Sterilization
This is a permanent form of contraception which includes a surgical procedure. For women, the fallopian tubes are blocked (tubal ligation) and for men, the vas deferens is blocked (vasectomy).
Withdrawal
This method is very unreliable. It involves the man withdrawing before ejaculation. Some semen may seep out before ejaculation, causing pregnancy.
Whichever contraception is best for you will be an individual preference. However, if you do not want a pregnancy, be sure to practice one of the more reliable methods listed above.
