Birth Control Options
Choosing birth control is an extremely important decision. Effective contraception is not the same as effective protection against sexually transmitted diseases. The degree of success or effectiveness for most birth control methods depends greatly on the proper and consistent use of the method of choice.
There is range of protection, convenience and permanence in the different forms of contraception. Some birth control methods can be used by partners, the male partner alone or the female partner alone.
Birth Control Options used by BOTH Partners
Abstinence, is when the man and the woman may mutually decide to not have sexual intercourse. Conception is not possible during a period of complete abstinence. While this is extremely effective in avoiding pregnancy, most couples will not find it desirable for any extended period of time.
Rhythm Method , this natural or "fertility awareness" method requires that couples abstain from sexual intercourse for five to 15 days per month in an effort to avoid the most fertile days in the woman's menstrual cycle. This is not a precise system, and there is a risk of pregnancy if the couple is not accurate in judging the "safe" and "unsafe" times.
No Method couples that do not use any method of contraception are at the highest risk of unintended pregnancy.
Birth Control Options Used by the MALE partner:
Condom, a thin, formfitting sheath worn over the man's erect penis to block sperm. Usually made of latex rubber, but also available in polyurethane and natural membrane, it can be highly effective if used properly. Protection is further increased when used with a spermicidal contraceptive such as foam, cream or jellies. There is a risk of a condom tearing, breaking, slipping or leaking, any of which can lead to conception. Couples sometimes forget to stop their activities to put on a condom.
Withdrawal or the Pull-Out method is when the man attempts to withdrawal from intercourse before ejaculation. Because sperm may be transmitted to the female before ejaculation, or because the man may not withdraw in time, the withdraw system is risky and unreliable.
Vasectomy, a surgical sterilization for men usually performed with local anesthetic during an office visit. The procedure is safe, highly effective and should be considered permanent. Permits the man to be responsible for contraception.
Significant numbers of couples that have experienced a failure of their previous contraceptive method consider vasectomy as a permanent solution. A vasectomy is more reliable and less troublesome than most other methods, but convenience should not be the sole reason for considering the procedure. In considering the various alternatives, it may be helpful to remember that a vasectomy and many other contraceptive methods do not provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases.
Birth Control Options Used by FEMALE partner:
Cervical Cap is a dome-shaped latex barrier device that fits over the cervix and blocks passage of sperm into the uterus. Similar to a diaphragm, it is commonly used with a spermicide.
Diaphragm is a shallow rubber cap, used with a contraceptive jelly, which the woman places in her vagina to cover the womb opening. This blocks and kills sperm to prevent conception. The Diaphragm is usually effective when used correctly.
Hormone Implants (Norplant®) are a long-term contraceptive system whereby small pellets are surgically inserted beneath the skin of a woman's upper arm. A progesterone-like hormone (levonorgestrel) is released gradually over time. The hormone blocks ovulation and results in an effective method of contraception during a five-year period. (See below. *)
Hormone Injection (Depo-Provera®), a progesterone injection administered every 12 weeks, which is highly effective, provided the woman, is consistent and timely about subsequent injections. The hormone blocks ovulation. Many women stop the injections within the first year due to side effects, including weight gain, pregnancy symptoms, abnormal or absence of periods, depression and nervousness. (See below*)
Intrauterine Device (IUD), a small plastic device (T-shaped, about the size of a quarter) that is placed in the uterus. Creates an imperceptible, low-grade inflammation that inhibits sperm and effectively prevents fertilized egg from being implanted in the uterus. Normally replaced every four years. May pose risk of infection. (See below*)
Oral Contraceptive ("the Pill"), taken by mouth, the pill is an estrogen tablet that can provide a high success rate when taken as directed. May pose slight increase in risk of stroke in some women and is not recommended for women over 35 who smoke. Effective rate is high, but only when taken consistently. (See below*)
The Patch is as effective as "the Pill". A simpler birth control option. The Patch delivers a steady flow of hormones through the skin and into your bloodstream over a period of 7 days. A weekly form of reversible contraception that is 99 percent effective when used correctly.
Progestin-only pill is another form of oral contraceptive is a, sometimes called the "mini-pill." This contains a lower dose of progestin than combined oral contraceptives (COC) and contains no estrogen. Must be taken at the same time daily. Often prescribed during period of breast-feeding. (See below*)
*Hormone-based methods can produce significant side effects, and some women are not appropriate candidates. Consult your physician. Estrogen-based and progesterone-based contraceptives have different effects. Some women may benefit from one type and not another.
Spermicides are chemical contraceptives, such as foam, cream or jellies, which effectively kill sperm on contact in the vagina. Are often used alone, but provide greater protection when used in combination with condom, diaphragm or other methods. Generally safe, with few side effects.
Tubal Ligation, surgical sterilization for women, performed under general anesthesia, which involves surgically tying, cutting or cauterizing the fallopian tubes in order to permanently block egg passage from the ovaries to the uterus. Tubal ligation generally requires a more significant surgery; general anesthetic, greater risks, expense and recovery time than does a vasectomy for the male. Effective, but should be considered permanent.
Vaginal Pouch, a barrier device, referred to as a "female condom," made of lubricated polyurethane, which fits inside the vagina to block sperm from reaching the uterus. It is wider than a male condom, but about the same length.
These Birth Control methods MUST be used correctly and consistently in order to provide the greatest effectiveness. Consult your physician and follow professional recommendations. For prescription and nonprescription contraceptive methods, read and follow the package directions and instructions carefully; observe expiration dates; and use with every sexual encounter.
