Pills, patches, polyurethane and progestin? What are the contraceptive options for the modern woman.
Women today have far more choices when it comes to contraception than in the 1700s, when abstinence, withdrawal, and condoms made from flax or animal intestine were the only options.
Due to the amount of reliable, and more hygienic modernbirth control methods, choosing the right one for your lifestyle and he alth history can be a bit confusing.
Even if you've had awkward situations with condoms or forgot to take your pill on time, there are a variety of birth control methods that might work better for you.
Condoms
condoms have been on the market for so long that one could write a handbook of terms describing them. But, if proven latex isn't your style, you'll be glad to know that it has a serious competitor in its category, the polyurethane condom. This material is ideal for those with latex allergies or sensitivities. Polyurethane condoms are also thinner so the heat is evenly distributed throughout the condom.
Condoms inLambskin or natural membrane condoms, which transmit heat faster than latex, are another alternative. But these don't provide any protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so it's best to avoid them unless you're in a he althy, exclusive relationship.
The female condom is another latex alternative that is made of polyurethane. It is also the only female contraceptive method that provides protection against pregnancy and infection. It is inserted into the vagina up to eight hours before intercourse and has two rings at each end to hold it in place.
Hormonal contraception and IUD
If you are in a relationship and want a long-term method, hormonal contraception and intrauterine devices (IUDs) are worth considering.
The birth control pill was first marketed in the 1960s and is still the most prescribed form of hormonal birth control in the world half a century later. When used properly, the pill has an effectiveness rate of 99.9%, making it the most reliable contraceptive option on the market. As an added benefit, hormonal birth control methods, which include the patch, injections, and vaginal rings, actually reduce the risk of endometrial and ovarian cancer, and help regularize periods.and menstrual cycles.
If you happen to forget to take birth control pills at the same time every day, the vaginal ring might be a better option for you. This flexible ring measures half a centimeter and sits comfortably in the vagina for three weeks, slowly releasing birth control hormones. As the vagina is a closed space, there is no need to worry about the ring getting lost there.
The stamp hit the Canadian market in January 2004 and works just like the pill and the ring, releasing the same hormones for three weeks. The patch sticks to the skin like a nicotine patch and stays in place even if you exercise, swim or take a shower. Then, in the fourth week when menstruation should occur, it is the break week, without the patch.
The kinds of hormonal contraceptives have different amounts and types of hormones. With any form of hormonal birth control, side effects like irregular bleeding, breast tenderness, and headaches are common during the first few months of use. But, a woman who experiences these symptoms for an extended period of time may want to consider switching to another type before giving up birth control altogether.
The progestin-only pill, also known as the mini-pill, does not contain estrogen like mosthormonal methods, but it must be taken without fail at the same time every day to be effective. These pills are popular with women who are breastfeeding, at risk for blood clotting, or into estrogen intolerance.
Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are another option for breastfeeding women, as they do not affect breast milk production. They are also suitable for women who do not tolerate hormonal methods or condoms. This small T-shaped device, which must be inserted by a doctor, can remain in the uterus for up to five years. It comes in two forms: the Copper IUD which alters the chemistry of the vagina creating a natural spermicide and the Intrauterine System Mirena (IUS) which slowly releases the progestogen.
When deciding on your choice of contraception, it is important to consult a doctor who can answer your questions, especially if these are related to your medical history and your lifestyle. You can also find more information about these birth control methods at the following internationally recognized sexual he alth website: www.sexualityandu.ca.
See the comparison of contraceptive methods and learn more about contraceptive methods
This article was written by sexualityandu.ca, Canada's premier website dedicated to providing reliable and topical andsexual he alth education, administered by the Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada. This site's mandate is to provide guidance and advice to help people develop and maintain he althy sexuality.
