Contraception Options: Finding the Right Choice for You
With so many contraception options available, finding the right choice for your individual needs can be overwhelming. And your requirements and preferences may change depending on your stage of life, so there is no one-size-fits-all here.
From oral contraceptives to intrauterine devices (IUDs) to barrier methods like condoms, each option offers different benefits and considerations. When you understand the various options and their effectiveness, side effects, and convenience, you can make an informed decision about which method is best suited to your lifestyle and reproductive goals.
In this article, we will explore the range of contraception options available to help you find the one that best suits you.
Barrier Method Contraception
For an effective and convenient birth control option, barrier method contraception is a popular choice. From condoms to diaphragms, these methods work by physically blocking sperm from reaching the egg, providing a reliable form of protection not only against unwanted pregnancies but also against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Condoms
The two primary types are external (male) condoms, worn over the penis, and internal (female) condoms, inserted into the vagina or anus. Materials vary; latex is common, but alternatives like polyurethane and polyisoprene are available for those with latex allergies.
Condom designs cater to different preferences, including extra-thin options for increased sensitivity, textured surfaces for enhanced pleasure, and condoms with additional lubrication to reduce friction.
Sizes also vary to ensure a proper fit, which is important for effectiveness. Some condoms contain spermicides, but these cause irritation in some people.
Benefits
- Effective protection against pregnancy and STIs.
- Easily accessible and widely available.
- Affordable compared to some other birth control methods.
- Simple to use with no prescription required.
- Non-hormonal, meaning no side effects.
- Used as needed, offering flexibility and convenience.
Effectiveness
When used correctly every time, condoms are approximately 98% effective in preventing pregnancy. With typical use, their effectiveness is around 87%.
Diaphragm
The diaphragm is a reusable, flexible, dome-shaped barrier method of contraception made from silicone. It is inserted into the vagina before sex, covering the cervix to prevent sperm from reaching the egg. For effectiveness, it must be used with spermicide. The diaphragm must be left in place for at least six hours after intercourse but should not be worn for more than 24 hours. It requires proper fitting by a healthcare professional and regular checks to ensure it's still working properly.
While diaphragms provide pregnancy prevention, they do not protect against sexually transmitted infections, so they are often used with condoms for added protection.
Benefits
- Hormone-free, so suitable for those who cannot or prefer not to use hormonal contraception.
- Can be used multiple times, making it a cost-effective option.
- No long-term side effects.
- Can be combined with condoms for added protection against both pregnancy and STIs.
- Can be used immediately after childbirth, unlike some hormonal contraceptives that require waiting periods.
Effectiveness
When used properly with spermicide, a diaphragm is 92–96% effective in preventing pregnancy.
Hormonal Methods of Birth Control
With the invention of the birth control pill in the 1960s, hormonal methods of contraception revolutionised the way women could manage their reproductive health and prevent unintended pregnancies.
These methods work by altering hormone levels in the body to suppress ovulation and create a barrier for sperm.
Birth Control Pills
A popular choice, the pill stops ovulation, thickens cervical mucus to block sperm, and thins the uterine lining to prevent implantation. There are two main types: combination pills, which contain estrogen and progestin, and progestin-only pills, also known as the mini-pill.
Birth control pills can also offer additional benefits, such as regulating periods, reducing menstrual cramps, and improving acne. However, they require consistency and do not protect against STIs.
Benefits
- Highly effective.
- Regulate menstrual cycles, making periods more predictable.
- Reduce menstrual cramps and pain.
- Can improve acne by balancing hormones.
- Lower risk of ovarian and endometrial cancers with long-term use.
- May reduce symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
- Lighten periods.
- Can help with hormonal conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
- Non-invasive and easy to use.
Effectiveness
When used correctly, birth control pills are more than 99% effective. With typical use, effectiveness drops to about 91%.
Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)
Hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs) are small, T-shaped devices inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. They release a low dose of progestin, which thickens cervical mucus to block sperm and may prevent ovulation.
IUDs provide long-term contraception, lasting between 3 to 8 years, depending on the type. Once removed, fertility typically returns quickly. While some experience side effects like irregular bleeding initially, most adjust over time.
Benefits
- Highly effective and long-lasting.
- Low maintenance, as once inserted there's no need for daily attention or frequent doctor visits.
- Can make periods lighter or stop altogether for some users.
- Reduce menstrual cramps.
- Can help with conditions like endometriosis and PCOS.
- Suitable for most women, including those who cannot use estrogen.
Effectiveness
IUDs containing hormones are more than 99% effective.
Non-Hormonal Methods
Non-hormonal methods of contraception offer individuals a natural and effective way to prevent pregnancy without altering their hormonal balance.
Copper IUDs
Copper IUDs are similar to regular IUDs, except instead of containing hormones, they work by releasing copper to prevent sperm from fertilizing an egg. Unlike other IUDs, with the copper IUD, menstrual periods may be heavier. They provide up to 10 years of protection.
Benefits
- Ideal for those who prefer hormone-free contraception.
- Effective, reversible and low maintenance.
- Safe for most women.
Effectiveness
Like a standard IUD, the copper IUD is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
Fertility Awareness Methods
Fertility awareness involves tracking your menstrual cycles to identify your fertile days and avoid unprotected sex during that time. It requires careful monitoring of body signs like your temperature and cervical mucus. While natural, it’s less reliable than other methods and requires commitment and consistency for effectiveness.
Benefits
- No hormones or devices involved.
- Suitable for those who cannot use hormonal contraception.
- Can be combined with other methods for added effectiveness.
Effectiveness
When used consistently and correctly, the fertility awareness method of contraception is 91%–99% effective in preventing pregnancy. However, with typical use, the effectiveness drops to 76%.
Other Methods
We've covered the most popular types of birth control above. But there are a few other options to consider that may be more appropriate for your particular circumstances.
Injectable Contraceptives
Injectable contraceptives are hormone shots that prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation and thickening cervical mucus. Given every 8–13 weeks, they are over 94% effective with typical use. Convenient and reversible, they don’t require daily attention, but periods may change, and fertility can take time to return after stopping.
Implants
Implant contraceptives are small, flexible rods placed under the skin of the arm, releasing hormones to prevent pregnancy for up to 5 years. They are over 99% effective, low-maintenance, and reversible, though some users may experience changes in their menstrual cycle.
Sterilisation
Sterilization is a permanent birth control method available for women (tubal ligation) and men (vasectomy). It's over 99% effective, requiring a medical procedure to block or cut reproductive pathways. While highly reliable, it's irreversible in most cases, making it appropriate only if you're certain you don’t want future pregnancies.
Pregnancy MOT
If you're considering stopping your contraception altogether because you want to get pregnant, then we highly recommend a Pregnancy MOT. This is a specially designed women's health assessment tailored to help you prepare both mentally and physically for the changes that pregnancy and delivery will bring.
For advice on your women's health questions, call Magdalena on 07877 017 936 or drop PelviCare an email. Alternatively, you can book an appointment online.
PelviCare Women's Health Physiotherapy is located on the border of Greenwich and Deptford in London, serving women across South London, East London, Essex, Kent and beyond.
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