Best Techniques and Birth Control Methods Available

Posted on November 12, 2007 in Health-Sex

Different kinds of birth control methods are available now a days. But you have to assess your needs properly before selecting a birth control option.

Some women only want to prevent pregnancy and these birth control methods may prove a great aid to them. But some women also want to protect themselves or their partners from sexually transmitted diseases.

Here a brief explanation of different birth control options is given. It helps you a lot in selecting the option that is flexible for you. But, always consult your doctor before selecting a birth control option. Your doctor explains to you in detail the pros and cons of each birth control option and gives the best option for you.

Barrier Methods

Barrier birth control methods include diaphragm, cervical cap and condoms. These methods help prevent pregnancy by blocking sperm from getting into the uterus. These methods have to be used every time you have sex. A qualified doctor fits a diaphragm or a cervical cap inside the vagina. But, using a diaphragm may cause urinary tract infections in some women.

Among the barrier birth control methods, Condoms are the best option. Condoms are widely available and they are less costly. Condoms are useful especially if you or your partner are also having sex with others or had sex with other people in the past.

Condoms protect you from getting STDs. If you use a spermicide along with condoms it offers better protection against pregnancy. But it can not help you from STDs. Spermicides that contain nonoxynol-9 cause genital irritation and may increase your risk of getting an STD. Research studies found that female condoms aren’t as effective as male condoms. But they are a better choice if your man is hesitant to use a male condom.

Birth Control Pills

Another birth control method includes birth control pills, which help prevent ovulation, i.e. the release of egg by the ovaries. These pills are generally made of two hormones called estrogen and progestin. You have to take the pills every day and you should not smoke.

The pills cause side effects like nausea, headaches, breast swelling, water retention, weight gain and depression. They may also reduce cramping and shorten the number of days of bleeding during the menstrual period. It also helps premenstrual syndrome.

Birth Control Patch

Hormonal birth control patch contains the hormones – estrogen and progestin – that help prevent pregnancy. It has to be applied to 1 of 4 places – the buttocks, abdomen, upper torso or outer arm. The patch has to be used for four weeks. You put on a new patch once a week for 3 weeks. In the 4th week, you need not use a patch, so that you allow your periods to start. The patch also causes side effects similar to those of the birth control pill. Those who use the patch should avoid smoking.

Vaginal Contraceptive Ring

It is a thin, flexible ring that is to be inserted into the vagina. It releases hormones – estrogen and progestin – that keep you away from pregnancy. It is left in the vagina for three weeks. It need not be in a specific position in the vagina. After 3 weeks, you can remove the ring. After 7 days, you have to insert a new ring. Women who use it should not smoke.

Hormone Shots

Birth control options such as hormone shots work almost like the pill to prevent pregnancy. They may also cause some side effects like headaches and changes in your period, mood and weight. It prevents pregnancy for 1 to 3 months.

IUD

IUD means ‘intrauterine device’. It is put in a woman’s uterus. It’s made of flexible plastic. It stops sperm from reaching the egg or prevents the egg from attaching to the uterus. Though IUD is a safer option, it also causes some risks like heavier bleeding and stronger cramps during periods. This birth control option is preferable to use IUDs only in women who already have had a baby.

Sterilization

Sterilization is one of the oldest birth control methods useful when a man or woman has undergone an operation to permanently prevent pregnancy. Sterilization is better option if you – don’t want to have children or don’t want more children. It involves closing off fallopian tubes, so it prevents eggs from reaching the uterus.

Natural Family Planning

It requires a couple to learn when in a woman’s cycle she can get pregnant. Usually it happens 4 days before and 2 days after ovulation. During these days, you have to use a barrier method of birth control or not have intercourse. But you should make proper plans to keep track of ovulation cycle.

With a little care and safety these birth control methods can make your birth control plans successful and safe.

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