There are various types of contraceptives every woman should know. Different contraceptives have different risks. The best contraceptive for you is that which prevents pregnancy, STIs and does not affect your body and hormones adversely.
Here are the types of contraceptives every woman should know;
The Condom
This is one of the most effective types of contraceptives out there with 97% protection. It protects you from STIs, prevents pregnancy, and does not interfere with your hormones in any way. There are male condoms and female condoms however, male condoms are much more effective. However if not used properly it can tear or come off.
The Oral Pill
The oral pill is a form of contraceptive that’s taken once a day. There are various types of pills. There’s the mini pill that only contains one hormone, progesterone. The combined pill has estrogen and progestin. You’re supposed to swallow them every day for them to be effective. There are certain disadvantages that come with the pill though. The pill can be affected by certain medications so you’d have to consult your doctor. The pill does not protect you from STIs though. Another con when using the pill is that the hormones may cause acne.
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Intrauterine Device (IUD)
The IUD is a T shaped device that contains progesterone. There’s two types; copper and plastic. The IUD gradually releases hormones that prevent pregnancy. The last anywhere from 3 to 10 years depending on the type. They’re 99% efficient if they’re placed correctly and they don’t move. They can cause irregular menses and spotting for the first couple of months. This mode of contraception does not protect against STIs.
The Implant
This mode of contraception involves placing a tiny flexible rod under the skin in a woman’s upper arm. The implant then releases progesterone gradually. This prevents the ovary from releasing the egg monthly. It also makes it difficult for the sperm to enter the womb by making the cervical mucus thicker. This is a tiny procedure that includes an anesthesia for the medic to successfully place it. The implant can last anywhere from 3 years to 7 years according to your choice. This method is highly effective and is long lasting. However the implant may cause irregular menses initially.
The Contraceptive Injection
The contraceptive injection contains synthetic hormones that are slowly released into the bloodstream over a 3 month period. It may cause irregular bleeding and does not protect from STIs.
Contraceptive Ring
This is a ring that’s inserted into the vagina to prevent pregnancy by gradually releasing hormones. It’s inserted in time spans of 3 weeks and reinserted after a one week break. If placed correctly it prevents pregnancy 99% of the time.
Diaphragm
A diaphragm is a small silicone dome placed inside the vagina to prevent the sperms from entering the uterus. It’s supposed to be inserted at least 6 hours after sex. It shouldn’t stay for too long due to possible infections. A diaphragm can be reused for up to 1 and a half years if properly cared for.
Spermicide
Spermicides like the name suggests is a contraception method that kills sperms. It’s only 80% accurate so you can use it as a form of secondary contraception.
Sterilisation
This is a more permanent mode of contraception. Sterilization is the process of removing the body’s ability to reproduce. This is for those who are sure they don’t want to have any kids in the future.
The Patch
The patch is a sticker you apply on any part of the body except the breasts to prevent pregnancy. It works like an implant. It releases the progesterone hormone that stops the ovaries from releasing eggs and thickens the uterus mucus making it difficult for sperms to enter. It’s 99% effective.
Natural Family Planning
This is among the types of contraceptives every woman should know. This is where you track your period and work with your safe days. When tracking your periods take note of your ovulation date. This method is great as it does not involve any interference with your hormones. There are multiple apps out there that can help you calculate your safe days based on your flow.
Withdrawal/Pull-out Method
The withdrawal method is where the guy pulls out before ejaculation. When it comes to types of contraceptives, this one is quite risky as it is not in your control. This method is risky because in the event sperm finds its way to the vagina you can still get pregnant.
Permanent Birth Control
This is an irreversible mode of contraception and is 99% effective. Women have their tubes tied while men undergo a vasectomy. You should only have permanent birth control if you’re sure you no longer want kids.