Birth Control Methods
Contraception or birth control is a fundamental human right. Over the years, contraception methods have evolved to become safer, more reliable, and easier to access.
Birth Control Options
Birth control allows for appropriate spacing between pregnancies, reduces the number of unwanted pregnancies, and helps protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). There are many different birth control options available.
The most effective birth control choice depends on factors such as accessibility, ease of use, affordability, reliability, and comfort. There are various types of birth control for women as well as men. To make an informed choice, please read on.
Coil or Intrauterine Devices
As the name suggests, a doctor implants these devices inside the uterus. Some IUDs release a small amount of hormone (typically progestin) each day to prevent pregnancy, while others, like birth control coil is non-hormonal. IUDs typically work for years and are reversible.
Tablets/Pills
These are also known as “the pills.” There are two types of birth control tablets, such as combined oral contraceptive pills and progesterone only pills.
They use hormones (estrogen and progesterone) to prevent pregnancy. If taken correctly, these are a very effective form of birth control, though they do not protect from STDs. Pills for birth control are “prescription only” and have a failure rate of approximately 7% to 8%.
Injections
Injections or shots for birth control contain the hormone progesterone. Given once every three months (four times a year), they are an alternative to daily pills for many individuals.
Birth control injections are administered in the arm or buttocks, with a failure rate of approximately 3%-4%. Like pills, they do not protect against STDs.
Implants
An implant or birth control rod is a thin, matchstick-like rod. The implantation location is located beneath the upper arm’s skin. To prevent a pregnancy, it releases progesterone. A birth control implant is an effective contraceptive and protects for approximately 3 years. The failure rate is very low (< 1%).
Vaginal Ring
It is a soft plastic ring. It is placed in the vagina and releases progesterone into the system to prevent pregnancy. Some vaginal rings are reusable. They have to be removed during the period and reinserted after. Whereas, other types need monthly replacement. The birth control vaginal ring is effective and has a failure rate of approximately 7%.
Patch
A birth control patch releases estrogen and progesterone into the body through the skin. It is used by sticking it on the lower abdomen, buttocks, or upper body (except the breasts). Women who are not comfortable taking pills may choose patch birth control. It offers the same level of protection. A birth control patch is used for 3 weeks, with a one-week interval for the period.
Barrier Methods
Barrier methods work by preventing sperm from reaching the egg. They are often used with spermicide for added protection. However, their failure rates are generally higher than other reversible methods.
- Sponge: A soft foam device filled with spermicide that is placed over the cervical opening up to 24 hours before intercourse. It should be removed six hours after the last act of intercourse. It requires practice to insert correctly and is not suitable during menstruation.
- Diaphragm/Cervical Cap: Both cover the cervix and prevent sperm entry. They are used with spermicide and must be fitted by a doctor before use.
- Male & Female Condoms: These form a barrier to prevent sperm from entering the body. Condoms are inexpensive, widely available, and provide protection against STDs.
Permanent Birth Control
Tubal Ligation (tying close the fallopian tubes) in females and Vasectomy (surgical closure of the vas deferens) in males are permanent birth control methods. These are 100% effective and generally irreversible.
Male Birth Control Pill
The search for an effective and low-cost male birth control pill that is free of major side effects, is ongoing. Hormone-based pills such as DMAU and 11β-MNTDC show promising results but are still in the research stage.
Natural Birth Control
You can practice natural birth control or birth control without hormones in two ways;
The first one is to understand and track your menstrual cycle. It allows you to avoid the most fertile time in the cycle by either not having intercourse or using condoms.
The second method is “lactational amenorrhea.” Exclusively breastfeeding your baby stops the release of hormones that lead to ovulation. Simply put, no ovulation, no pregnancy. This form of natural birth control may work for 6 months.