Research shows that 45% of live births in England were unplanned pregnancies, making up almost 50% of conception cases in the country! Indeed, rolling in the hay shouldn’t always result in a pregnancy. Fortunately, you can decide on a birth control method that feels comfortable, inexpensive, and presents minimal side effects. In the meantime, how well informed are you about birth control methods? If you want to know more about this topical issue, please read further.
The Oral contraceptive pill
These little pills pack potent doses of relevant synthetic hormones that allow women to control their sexual lives. The oral contraceptive pill is one of the most standard birth control methods available to women worldwide. Although it has several other uses for different health conditions in females, birth control is its most well-marketed message. However, before you take that vital step to go on the pill, you must know the variations on the market. For example, while some are single hormone pills, others are created with a combination of more than one hormone.
The key to harnessing the full advantages of the oral contraceptive pill is to take it daily and on time. This means the slightest time shift can reduce its contraceptive element. Before you decide to go on the pill, you must first see the physician or the gynaecologist to help you decide which type is suitable.
Moreover, oral contraceptive pills are prescription drugs, and you need your doctor’s authorisation before you purchase them. You may then conveniently order your specific contraceptive pill online and have it delivered without hassle. Keep in mind that while some women experience different side effects of the pill, others do not.
Intrauterine device (IUD)
This is a T-shaped device that contains synthetic hormones to ‘guard’ the uterus from possible implantation of a fertilised egg. The IUD contains progesterone and is fitted into the uterine cavity by a trained medical professional. It has a dangling tail that hangs out of the genital orifice but doesn’t cause any discomfort. The intrauterine device can last anywhere from three to ten years without causing the woman any problems if well-fitted. The longevity of the IUD will usually depend on the specific type.
The device is made from plastic or copper, but the former seems to be the most preferred in the UK. The downside with the intrauterine device is always to be mindful of any change in position. With its ‘dangling tail’ hanging out, you can check for any displacement or wrong positioning. Besides, the IUD is effective against pregnancy if fitted within five days of unprotected sex.
The critical element here is to have it properly fitted by a trained health professional. According to research, the IUD is 99% effective as a birth control or contraceptive method. However, some women complain of irregular bleeding within the first few months of having one fitted. By all means, keep in mind that the IUD does not protect against STIs.
The contraceptive implant
This is a thin, flexible rod-like device put right underneath the skin of the upper arm. While in the woman’s arm, it releases hormones aimed at stopping ovulation. Additionally, the presence of the implant stimulates the cervix to produce thick mucus that prevents sperms from swimming through. This type of birth control requires a local anaesthetic before the device is placed under the small incision made on the upper arm.
However, the implant must be replaced every three to five years, depending on the type and brand used. This method is reversible and doesn’t hinder the woman from taking seed in the future. Just like the others, implants do not protect against STIs.
The male and female condom
Both male and female condoms are known to be effective against unwanted pregnancies. But, the most influencing reason for their popularity is the protection offered from contracting sexually transmitted Infections. Made from lubricated latex rubber, the condom acts as a barrier to prevent active sex cells from fertilising the opposite sex. However, the male condom is more common than the female condom because the mode of insertion of the female condom can be cumbersome, while the inner ring is known to cause discomfort to some users.
In conclusion, you have the liberty to take matters into your own hands as you decide when to get pregnant. Hopefully, you will take the time to carefully assess all the options available as you choose a suitable birth control for yourself.
