Women who choose not to become pregnant have a wider range of contraceptive options than ever before. Some women choose hormonal contraceptives such as birth control pills, while others prefer barrier methods like the diaphragm. Always discuss birth control options with a new partner before becoming sexually active, and use condoms to prevent disease transmission.
Hormonal Contraceptives
Hormonal contraceptives work by preventing you from ovulating, or releasing eggs from your ovaries each month, and by thinning the lining of the uterus to keep a pregnancy from implanting. Without an egg to be fertilized by sperm, pregnancy cannot occur. Most hormonal birth control methods contain the hormones estrogen and progestin, although some contain progestin only. The most commonly used hormonal contraceptive is the birth control pill, with those containing only progestin sometimes called "mini-pills." Other methods of estrogen and progestin delivery are Depo-Provera, the birth control injection given every three months; the vaginal ring, a flexible ring inserted into the vagina every month and left for three weeks; and the birth control patch, which sticks to your skin and releases hormones transdermally. Some women prefer the ring, patch or shot because they don't have to remember to take a pill every day, while some prefer the pill because it can be discontinued if side effects occur. Side effects of hormonal contraceptives include significant mood swings and decreased libido.
Barrier Methods
Barrier methods of birth control work by blocking the cervix, or the opening of the uterus. Condoms are a commonly used barrier method that should always be used with a new partner to prevent both pregnancy and transmission of diseases such as HIV---the virus that causes AIDS. The diaphragm is a shallow latex cup inserted into the vagina that can be taken out after sex, washed and reused. Gynecologists recommend lining a diaphragm with spermicidal jelly for added effectiveness. Diaphragms are made of latex rubber, so women with a latex allergy may prefer to use a silicone cervical cap. Like the diaphragm, the cervical cap requires the use of a spermicide to kill sperm as they enter the vagina and provide maximum effectiveness against pregnancy.
Intrauterine Device (IUD)
An IUD is a T-shaped device inserted into the uterus by your gynecologist. IUDs affect the movement of sperm, preventing them from joining with an egg. They also alter the lining of the uterus, which may prevent a fertilized egg from implanting. Some IUDS release progestin, which prevents ovulation in the same way as the birth control pill. An IUD also thickens the cervical mucus, helping to block sperm from entering the uterus. Having an IUD in place allows for greater spontaneity of sex, making it a good choice for those in a long-term, monogamous relationship. It also reduces the frequency and duration of your periods and can be used during breast feeding.
