Choosing the suitable contraceptive method is an important decision that can significantly impact an individual’s health and lifestyle. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to choose. This article will discuss the factors to consider when selecting the appropriate contraceptive method.
What is contraception
The term contraception includes all measures, temporary or permanent, designed to prevent pregnancy due to the Coital Act. It’s been practiced for several Centuries. However, with the innovations in pharmaceutical industries and medicine, Women are presented with several contraceptive methods to choose from.
Factors Influencing the Choice of Contraceptive Method
When choosing a contraceptive method, Several factors influence this decision, More often these factors are in consideration of the comfort of the woman. It is important to consider the following factors:
Age
This is one of the most important factors to Consider when choosing a preferred method of contraception. Your safety is of utmost importance for teenagers and young adults. Thus barrier contraceptive methods are usually advocated for these age groups as they also offer protection against some sexually transmitted infections as well as contraception.
Effectiveness
The effectiveness of a contraceptive method should be a major consideration. Some methods, such as hormonal implants or intrauterine devices, are more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, while others, like condoms or natural family planning, have a higher failure rate.
Health Considerations
Individual health and medical history should be considered when selecting a choice of contraceptive method. Some methods, like hormonal birth control, may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as blood clots, high blood pressure, or obesity. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine which methods are safe and appropriate.
Lifestyle
Lifestyle considerations, such as sexual activity frequency and preference, should also be taken into account. Some methods, like condoms, require consistent and proper use, while others, like hormonal implants, offer long-term protection without the need for regular maintenance.
Cost
The cost of a contraceptive method may also be a consideration. Some methods, like hormonal birth control, may be covered by insurance, while others, like condoms or diaphragms, may require out-of-pocket expenses.
Types Of Contraceptive Methods
There are several different types of contraceptive methods available, each with its own unique benefits and drawbacks. These methods can be broadly divided into the following categories:
Temporary Contraception Methods
Temporary methods are commonly used to post-pone or to space births. However, the methods are also frequently being used by couples even though they have got a strong desire for no more children. The under-listed methods are reversible ways of preventing pregnancy:
Natural Family Planning
Natural family planning (NFP) is a method of contraception that involves tracking a woman’s menstrual cycle to determine when she is most fertile and avoiding sexual intercourse during that time. This method does not involve the use of any medications or devices.
The most common form of NFP is the fertility awareness method (FAM), which involves tracking changes in cervical mucus and body temperature to determine when ovulation occurs. By avoiding sexual intercourse during the time when a woman is most fertile, couples can reduce the likelihood of pregnancy. Coitus Interruptus (withdrawal Method), Breastfeeding, Lactational amenorrhea (lack of menstruation during the breastfeeding period)
NFP can be effective when used correctly and consistently, but it requires a significant amount of commitment and effort. It also requires a woman to have a regular menstrual cycle and be able to accurately track changes in her body. Additionally, NFP may not be suitable for individuals who have irregular menstrual cycles or who are at high risk of unintended pregnancy.
Pros
- No cost
- no appliance is required
- Lack of side effects.
Cons
- It is difficult to calculate the safe time consistently
- compulsory abstinence from sexual acts during specific times
- To use these techniques without side effects, you must first undergo several months of learning
- requires sufficient self-control by the man
- Very High Failure rate.
Barrier Contraceptive Methods
Barrier methods are a type of contraceptive method that works by physically preventing sperm from reaching the egg. They include options such as condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps. These methods are typically made from latex or other materials that create a barrier between the sperm and the egg.
Barrier methods can be highly effective at preventing pregnancy when used correctly and consistently. Condoms, for example, are over 98% effective at preventing pregnancy when used correctly. However, barrier methods may not be as effective as hormonal methods or other forms of contraception. They may also require more planning and preparation before sexual activity.
Pros
- Cheaper with no contraindications
- Portable and simple to use and disposable
- Protection against sexually transmitted diseases, e.g.gonorrhea, chlamydia, hpV and hIV
- Useful where the coital act is infrequent and irregular.
Cons
- May accidentally break or slip off during coitus
- Inadequate sexual pleasure
- Allergic reactions to latex can make it unpleasant.
Hormonal Contraceptive Method
Hormonal methods are a type of contraceptive method that uses hormones to prevent pregnancy. There are several options available, including birth control pills, patches, vaginal rings, injections, and implants. These methods work by releasing hormones, such as estrogen and progestin, into the body to prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg.
Hormonal methods can be highly effective at preventing pregnancy when used correctly and consistently. Some methods, such as hormonal implants or intrauterine devices, are more than 99% effective. However, hormonal methods may not be suitable for everyone. They may not be recommended for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as blood clots or high blood pressure.
Pros
- Has least failure rate
- The reversibility rate is prompt
- The implants eliminate regular medication as imposed by oral pill
- The implants and progestin-only pills can be used safely during lactation
- Progestin-only pills may be prescribed in patients having medical disorders such as hypertension,
fibroid, diabetes, epilepsy, smoking, and a history of thromboembolism.
Cons
- There may be acne, mastalgia, headache, breakthrough bleeding, or at times amenorrhea.
- There is an increased chance of irregular bleeding and an occasional phase of an absence of menstruation.
- Requires initial assessment to determine its suitability and periodic follow-up by a Health practitioner.
- High risk of drug interactions.
Intrauterine Devices
Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a type of long-acting reversible contraceptive method that is inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider. There are two main types of IUDs: hormonal and non-hormonal.
Hormonal IUDs release a small amount of progestin into the uterus, which thickens cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg and thins the lining of the uterus to prevent implantation. Non-hormonal IUDs are typically made of copper, which creates an environment that is toxic to sperm and prevents fertilization.
IUDs can be highly effective at preventing pregnancy when used correctly and consistently. Hormonal IUDs are more than 99% effective and non-hormonal IUDs are more than 99% effective. They can also be used for several years before needing to be replaced, making them a convenient option for individuals who want long-term contraception.
Pros
- Has simplicity in techniques of insertion and is the most cost-effective of all methods.
- Has very reduced systemic side effects
- Suitable for people with medical conditions such as epilepsy and Hypertension
- Suitable for breastfeeding Mothers
Cons
- Has limitations in its use
- This can sometimes lead to local reactions
- Can worsen already existing uterine infections
Permanent Contraceptive Methods
Permanent surgical contraception, also called voluntary sterilization, is a surgical method whereby the reproductive function of an individual male or female is purposefully and permanently destroyed. There are broadly two permanent contraceptive methods :
Vasectomy
A vasectomy is a form of permanent male sterilization that involves the surgical cutting or sealing of the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra. By blocking the vas deferens, sperm are prevented from entering the semen that is ejaculated during sexual intercourse, effectively preventing pregnancy.
Vasectomy is a safe and effective form of contraception, with a failure rate of less than 1%. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and takes about 20-30 minutes to complete. Recovery time is usually brief, with most men able to return to work and normal activities within a few days.
Tubal Ligation
A tubal ligation is a form of permanent female sterilization that involves the surgical blocking or removal of the fallopian tubes, which carry eggs from the ovaries to the uterus. By blocking or removing the tubes, the sperm are prevented from reaching the eggs, effectively preventing pregnancy.
Tubal ligation is a highly effective form of contraception, with a failure rate of less than 1%. The procedure can be performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation and typically takes about 30 minutes to complete. Recovery time is usually brief, with most women able to return to normal activities within a few days.
Pros
- The procedure is simple and permanent
- Has a short recovery period
Cons
- Another form of contraception is usually needed for a few weeks till the effectiveness is established.
Making the Decision
Once all factors have been considered, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of each method before making a decision. A healthcare provider can provide guidance and answer any questions about the chosen method.