What is contraception? Contraception is a method of preventing pregnancy by blocking or reducing the likelihood of fertilization or implantation.
What are the different types of contraception? There are several types of contraception including barrier methods (e.g. condoms, diaphragms), hormonal methods (e.g. birth control pills, patches, injections), intrauterine devices (IUDs), and sterilization methods (e.g. tubal ligation, vasectomy).
How effective is contraception? The effectiveness of contraception varies depending on the type used and how consistently and correctly it is used. For example, some methods such as the pill and the IUD are more than 99% effective when used correctly, while condoms are approximately 85% effective.
Are there any risks associated with using contraception? Like any medical intervention, there are risks associated with using contraception. Some of the most common risks include side effects from hormonal methods such as nausea or headaches, increased risk of blood clots, and possible complications from surgeries like tubal ligation or vasectomy.
Can contraception protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)? While some types of contraception such as condoms can help reduce the risk of STIs, most methods are designed primarily to prevent pregnancy and do not offer protection against STIs.
When should I start using contraception? The decision to start using contraception is a personal one that should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider. Generally, it is recommended that women who are sexually active and do not wish to become pregnant start using contraception as soon as possible.
Can men use contraception? Yes, there are several types of contraception that are available to men including condoms, vasectomy, and withdrawal.
Is contraception affordable? The cost of contraception varies depending on the type and where it is obtained. However, many forms of contraception are covered by health insurance, and some clinics offer low-cost or free options.
What happens if I become pregnant while using contraception? While contraception is highly effective when used correctly, there is still a small risk of pregnancy. If you become pregnant while using contraception, you should contact your healthcare provider to discuss your options.
Can I stop using contraception at any time? Yes, you can stop using contraception at any time. However, it is important to discuss any changes to your contraception with a healthcare provider to ensure that you are making the best decision for your individual needs and health.
10 lesser known facts about Contraception
Birth control pills were first approved for contraceptive use in 1960, but they were initially only available to married women.
The first IUD (intrauterine device) was developed in the 1920s, but it wasn’t widely used until the 1960s.
Emergency contraception (also known as the “morning-after pill”) can be effective up to 120 hours after unprotected sex, but it works best if taken within 24 hours.
In addition to preventing pregnancy, some forms of contraception (such as the birth control pill and the Depo-Provera shot) can help regulate menstrual cycles and alleviate symptoms of conditions like endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome.
Barrier methods of contraception (such as condoms and diaphragms) can provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as well as pregnancy.
Fertility awareness methods (such as the basal body temperature method and the cervical mucus method) can be effective forms of contraception, but they require careful monitoring and are not as reliable as other methods.
Some forms of contraception (such as the Depo-Provera shot and the implant) can cause irregular bleeding or periods to stop altogether.
The contraceptive patch and the contraceptive ring work in a similar way to the birth control pill, but they are applied or inserted differently and only need to be changed once a week or once a month, respectively.
Male sterilization (vasectomy) is a highly effective form of contraception, but it is a permanent procedure and should only be considered by those who are certain they do not want to father children in the future.
There are many different types of contraception available, and the most effective method for any given individual will depend on their health, lifestyle, and personal preferences. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider to discuss options and choose the best method for your needs.