What are the different methods of contraception?
Contraception, also known as birth control, is the use of various methods, devices, or medications to prevent pregnancy. There are many different types of contraception available, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. In this article, we will explore the various methods of contraception and the key features of each.
Barrier methods
Barrier methods of contraception work by physically blocking the sperm from reaching the egg. These methods include:
Condoms: Condoms are thin sheaths made of latex or polyurethane that are worn on the penis during sexual intercourse. They are widely available and can be purchased at most drugstores and supermarkets. Condoms are an effective method of contraception, with a success rate of around 85% when used correctly. In addition to preventing pregnancy, condoms also help to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Diaphragm: A diaphragm is a shallow, dome-shaped cup made of silicone or latex that is inserted into the vagina before sexual intercourse. It covers the cervix, preventing sperm from entering the uterus. Diaphragms must be used with spermicide, a chemical that kills sperm, to be effective. The success rate of diaphragms is around 88% when used correctly.
Cervical cap: A cervical cap is a small, cup-shaped device made of silicone or latex that fits over the cervix. Like the diaphragm, it must be used with spermicide to be effective. The success rate of cervical caps is around 71-86% when used correctly.
Hormonal methods
Hormonal methods of contraception use hormones to prevent pregnancy. These methods include:
Birth control pills: Birth control pills are small tablets that contain the hormones estrogen and progestin. They are taken orally and work by preventing the release of an egg from the ovaries (ovulation). Birth control pills are more than 90% effective when taken consistently and correctly.
Birth control patch: The birth control patch is a small, thin patch that is applied to the skin. It releases hormones into the bloodstream through the skin and works by preventing ovulation. The patch is more than 90% effective when used correctly.
Birth control ring: The birth control ring is a small, flexible ring that is inserted into the vagina. It releases hormones into the bloodstream through the walls of the vagina and works by preventing ovulation. The ring is more than 90% effective when used correctly.
Birth control injection: Birth control injections, also known as “the shot,” contain the hormone progestin. They are given by a healthcare provider every three months and work by preventing ovulation. The shot is more than 94% effective when used correctly.
Birth control implant: The birth control implant is a small, thin rod that is inserted under the skin of the upper arm. It releases hormones into the bloodstream and works by preventing ovulation. The implant is more than 99% effective when used correctly.
Intrauterine devices (IUDs)
Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are small, T-shaped devices that are inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider. IUDs are a popular and effective method of contraception, with a success rate of more than 99%. There are two main types of IUDs: hormonal and copper.
Hormonal IUDs release a small amount of the hormone progestin into the uterus. This hormone thickens the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg. Hormonal IUDs can provide contraception for up to five years. They are an especially good option for women who cannot take estrogen, a hormone that is often used in other types of birth control pills and patches.
Copper IUDs do not contain hormones. Instead, they release small amounts of copper into the uterus, which interferes with the movement and survival of sperm. Copper IUDs can provide contraception for up to ten years. They may also have the added benefit of reducing the risk of endometrial cancer and ectopic pregnancies.
One of the main advantages of IUDs is that they are long-lasting and convenient. Once an IUD is inserted, you do not need to remember to take a pill or use a condom every time you have sex. However, IUDs do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so it is still important to use condoms if you are at risk of contracting an STI.
IUDs are a safe and effective method of contraception for most women. However, they are not suitable for everyone. Women who are pregnant or have certain conditions, such as uterine cancer or a pelvic infection, should not use an IUD.
If you are interested in using an IUD as a method of contraception, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider about which type of IUD is right for you. Your provider will be able to discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each type of IUD and help you make an informed decision.