If you’re a healthy sexually active female, I think it is important to be knowledgeable about your body and how it works. You shouldn’t be sexually active yet do not use any form of contraceptives; well, unless you’re trying to get pregnant. I personally feel there are women who are absolutely clueless about the many different types of contraceptives available in the market. In this time and age, you don’t need to be embarrassed to ask your doctor for advice; in fact you should ask and be more aware of your body, especially if you do the horizontal tango ever so often.
Here I have compiled a list of commonly used contraceptives. However, please take note that this is a general list. You should still ask your doctor for a more personal advice since every woman’s body is different.
Birth Control Pills This is the oldest and most common form of birth control. In fact, I am using this since it works for me and so far, I have not experienced any side effects. Basically the pill is made out of synthetic estrogen and progesterone which mimics the hormones in your body which in turn prevents pregnancy from occurring. The pill is so far the most popular form of contraceptive since you only need to take one pill a day and you will experience shorter and lighter periods with lesser abdominal cramps. There are some negative side effects for certain individuals though, such as increased headaches, breast tenderness and mood swings. However, since there are many different brand of pills these days, it is better if you asked your doctor for a recommendation.
Injections Lunelle injections work the same way as the pill as it also contains synthetic estrogen and progesterone hormones. You get this shot once every 28-30 days so for those who tend to forget taking the pill daily, this is another means of birth control. However, I personally feel this method has too many side effects such as vaginal infections, acne, changes in appetite and weight, dizziness and changes in libido amongst many others.
Depo-Provera is another type of injection, just that this is a progestin injection you get every three months. But because it gives you a large dose of progestin at one time, the side effects can be quite pronounced. One of the most common side effects would be the absence of menstruation during the first year year of use. Other side effects consists of increase in spotting, weight gain, changes in libido, depression and hair loss. However, despite the many side effects and risk of complications, Depo-Provera is one of the most effective forms of hormonal birth control. But if you’re hoping to get pregnant within a year or so should not take this injection as it can cause fetal defects and higher neonatal and infant mortality rates.
IUD An IUD is a small T-shaped device which is inserted into the cervix and it is kept in place there to prevent the fertilization of an egg. A small string hangs down from the IUD into the upper part of your vagina so you can check periodically whether your IUD is still in place or not. You won’t want it to go missing now, do you? Now, depending on the type of IUD you use, your IUD can provide up to 12 years of protection against unwanted pregnancy. There are of course complications in using this form of contraceptive, although it is quite rare that you would face uterine puncture, expulsion or tubal infection. However, you have to keep in mind that not all women are suited for an IUD insertion, especially those who have never been pregnant before as their uterus is smaller which makes insertion a tad more difficult to perform. An IUD insertion has to be performed by a certified doctor, so don’t even think about trying this out at home.
Implants I have thought of using this form of contraceptive but the thought of having something implanted in my arm is just a little too scary for me. For those who are unfazed by that thought can try using Implanon, a soft medical polymer implant of 1.5 inches long and 0.08 inches wide. It is implanted beneath the surface of your skin and your body will just receive steady doses of progestin regularly. You can’t see the implant after it’s been inserted by the doctor, but you can still feel it to ensure that it’s inserted properly and it’s still there. You need to remove the implant in three years, or before if you decide to. Although this is an easy and effective form of contraceptive, there are quite a number of side effects ranging from simple weight gain to viral infections. Since implanting involves surgery, you definitely need to talk with your doctor about your choices.
Condoms If you are just totally unsure and you don’t want to go through embarrassing talks with your doctor, you can always go the easy way out; condoms. This is also the only contraceptive that offers protection from STDs. However, condoms have the tendency to break if not used properly. But since it’s readily available in any store, most people opt for this. Remember one thing though; use a new condom for every time you have oral, vaginal and anal sex.
Remember, this is only a guide and not the word of God. Please consult a professional for advice.