Birth control can be a great way to avoid unwanted pregnancy, but many birth control options have disadvantages. Although advantages of taking birth control often outweigh the disadvantages, all couples should take the time to learn about the potential problems associated with birth control so they can be prepared in case problems do arise.
Impaired Effectiveness
Using any form of birth control incorrectly may compromise the effectiveness of pregnancy protection. Incorrect use may involve putting a condom on incorrectly, forgetting to take a birth control pill on time or failing to wait the appropriate amount of time to begin intercourse after applying spermicide. All forms of birth control contain specific instructions on how to use the product correctly. Following these instructions perfectly keeps the birth control as effective as possible and reduces the chances of an unwanted pregnancy. Couples practicing birth control methods like natural family planning or the withdrawal method should take the time to fully educate themselves on how to properly execute the method to ensure the highest level of effectiveness.
Side Effects
Many women who take hormonal birth control experience unpleasant side effects. The specific side effects vary depending upon the type of hormonal birth control used and the woman herself, but potential side effects may include swollen or tender breasts, nausea, headaches, acne, breakthrough bleeding, weight gain or mood swings, according to the National Women’s Health Information Center. Although most of these side effects are temporary and lessen or disappear completely as the woman’s body adjusts to the medication, some side effects continue or become particularly unpleasant. Women who are concerned about side effects from birth control should consult a doctor.
Medical Complications
Many hormonal birth control options may increase the risk of certain medical conditions. An increased risk of blood clots, stroke, high blood pressure and heart attacks is common for many hormonal birth control options, especially in women over the age of 35 and those who smoke. In addition, some women may experience an allergic reaction to their birth control medication. Women should talk to a doctor about ways to minimize these risks before beginning any hormonal birth control medication or explore other options.
No STD protection
Male condoms are the only form of birth control that is effective at protecting against sexually transmitted diseases, warns the National Women’s Health Information Center. All other forms of birth control only protect against unwanted pregnancy. Couples who are worried about contracting a STD should always use a condom.
Availability and Cost
Hormonal birth control options are generally the most effective, but also are the most difficult to obtain. All hormonal birth control options require a visit to the doctor and a prescription. The cost of some hormonal birth control methods may also be prohibitive for some women. Couples who are having issues with the availability or cost of birth control should consider calling a clinic like Planned Parenthood to learn about free or low-cost birth control options.
Diminished Sexual Satisfaction
Some couples find that a particular birth control method interrupts their enjoyment of sexual activity. For example, some couples dislike stopping foreplay to prepare a barrier method of birth control. Some men have a reduction in the sensation to their penis when using condoms, which may make the experience less pleasurable. Couples who feel that their birth control method is diminishing their overall sexual satisfaction should talk to a doctor to explore other choices that may be more appealing.
References
- National Women’s Health Information Center: Birth Control Methods
- MayoClinic.com: Birth Control Options: Things to Consider
- American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Birth Control Pills
- Children’s Hospital Boston: Center for Young Women’s Health: Pros and Cons of Different Contraceptive Methods
