Contraception also called birth control, involves various procedures that help prevent pregnancy. There are different birth control methods, but you must choose the one that suits your lifestyle, health history, and family planning goals. You can also consider contraception that prevents sexually transmitted infections. Your doctor can help you choose the procedure that suits you. Ensure you discuss all the benefits and disadvantages of all contraception San Antonio available before making a final decision. The main goal of contraception is to prevent pregnancy, but some procedures can reduce premenstrual cramps, acne, and other menstruation symptoms. There are various types of contraception, which include:
- Condoms
Condoms are hormone free, and you can easily carry them. They are the only type of contraception that can protect people against most sexually transmitted infections. Condoms come in a male and female variety. Male condoms are worn on an erect penis and prevent sperm from entering a woman’s vagina during sex. The female condom is inserted into the vagina right before sex. If condoms are not used properly, they can tear or come off.
- Oral contraceptive pill
The oral contraceptive pill is taken once daily and is the most commonly used contraception method by Australian women. These pills may contain estrogen and progestin or progestin only. When taken at the right time, it is highly effective. If you do not take the drug as directed by your healthcare provider, it will not be effective. Oral contraceptive pills do not offer protection against sexually transmitted infections.
- Intrauterine device (IUD)
An intrauterine device is small and T-shaped. IUD is made from a material containing progesterone hormone or plastic and copper. Your doctor places the device inside the uterus. Depending on your type, it can stay for three to ten years. Your doctor can remove your IUD if you wish to get pregnant. You may experience irregular bleeding and spotting in the first six months of use, and they do not protect you against sexually transmitted infections.
- Implants
An implant is a small, flexible rod that doctors place under a woman’s skin in the upper arm that releases the hormone progesterone. The hormone blocks the ovary from releasing the ovum and thickens the cervical mucus preventing sperm from entering the uterus. Implants are replaced after three years, but they are reversible if you wish to get pregnant. They are highly effective, but you may experience irregular bleeding in the first few months.
- Diaphragm
A diaphragm is a small, dome-shaped silicon your doctor places in your vagina to prevent sperm from entering the uterus. Your diaphragm needs to stay in place for at least six hours after sex but not longer than twenty-four hours. You must take out your diaphragm after sex for cleaning. If you take care of your diaphragm, it can last up to two years. You need to place your diaphragm correctly and keep track of the hours inserted for effective results.
Contraception, also known as birth control, involves different medical methods that prevent pregnancy. Condoms, implants, intrauterine devices, oral contraceptive pills, and diaphragms are the commonly used birth control methods. Schedule an appointment at Aurora OB/GYN for contraception to prevent getting pregnant.
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