Effective birth control choices have never been more available. Improvements in the different types of available birth control offer the user many effective choices. The best birth control method for any individual depends on various factors, including whether the user is interested in using hormonal methods, if the user is in a committed relationship and any personal beliefs that may affect feelings toward birth control. It is important to remember that while these methods are effective at preventing pregnancy, only the condom protects against sexually transmitted diseases.
Oral Contraceptives
Oral contraceptives use hormones to prevent pregnancy. Commonly referred to as birth control pills, this choice requires a prescription. The pills use progestin or a combination of progestin and estrogen to prevent the release of an egg and thicken cervical mucus to make it inhospitable to sperm.
Intrauterine Devices
Otherwise known as IUDs, intrauterine devices are small, plastic devices. A health care provider implants the T-shaped device into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. There are two types of IUDs available. Copper IUDs release copper once implanted, which kills sperm before the sperm can fertilize the egg. A copper IUD can remain in place for up to 10 years. Progestin-releasing IUDs release the hormone progestin, which adversely affects the ability of sperm to fertilize the egg. The release of hormones also lessens menstrual bleeding and cramps for many women, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC).
Implants and Injections
Implanon is an implantable rod that releases progestin into the body to prevent pregnancy. Unlike earlier implantable birth control, Implanon requires only one rod, and the health care provider inserts the rod just under the skin. The process of implanting Implanon is quick; UMMC states that it takes approximately one minute and requires local anesthesia. The rod is effective for three years. The patient can have the rod removed earlier if she desires.
Injected contraceptives use progestin to prevent pregnancy. The injection is effective for three months. There are concerns about long-term side effects of injectable contraception, according to the UMMC, and it is not generally recommended for use for longer than two years.
Barrier Methods
Perhaps the most popular form of barrier birth control is the male condom. Other methods of barrier birth control include the female condom, cervical cap, sponge and the diaphragm. These methods create a physical barrier that prevents the sperm from coming into contact with the egg.
Lifestyle Choices
Natural family planning is a term used for birth control methods that do not use any artificial methods to prevent pregnancy. A woman may use one or more of these methods to know when she is fertile and abstain from sexual intercourse during those times. She may take her temperature each morning, as temperature rises when ovulation approaches. She may note changes in cervical mucus, maintain a calendar to chart her menstrual cycle or use a combination of these methods. Using a combination of natural planning methods improves this method's effectiveness.
