Birth Control Options
Different types of birth control methods
Birth control is important for a number of reasons. It helps you limit the number of children you want to have. Also, it makes it possible for you to put off pregnancy till you’re ready to have a baby and raise a family.
As a woman who is not prepared for parenthood just yet, there are several methods available for practicing birth control. The following are some of the main and most popular methods of birth control.
Birth Control using Contraceptives
Birth Control Pills
Undoubtedly, the most well-known birth control methods is through the use of condoms which are readily available everywhere. Condoms are generally very effective against unwanted pregnancies, though they might sometimes break or leak. So, always buy a good brand of condoms that is reputed for the quality, strength and durability of the product. Condoms give you one more major advantage. They provide protection from sexually transmitted diseases too.
Popular as they are, some couples choose not to use condoms. For such people there are other options available that are almost as effective. Like for example, birth control pills that are actually a hormonal birth control method. These pills are hormonal contraceptives which have to be taken one a day for the entire month or three weeks depending on the type of pills you are taking. They prevent pregnancy by stopping your menstrual cycle. But their effect is reversible and you can become pregnant if you stop taking them. Birth control pills however are not recommended for women who are smokers because they may cause health problems for such individuals.
Birth Control Pills
These are some of the existing methods of contraception and you might experience a few side effects while using them. Also, they are designed to stop pregnancy right at the start. That is, if you use a condom, or are on the pill, conception will not be allowed to take place whenever you have sexual intercourse with your partner.
However, for emergency situations, when you need some method of birth control after you have already had sexual intercourse there is what is commonly called the birth control pill or morning-after pill. You can obtain such emergency contraceptives from your doctor’s office or through your local pharmacy. But doctors strongly advice women against making it a habit to use emergency contraceptives or abortion as a preferred form of birth control.
Birth Control using Depo Shot
Another hormonal method of birth control is commonly called the Depo shot. This has one major downside. It has been clearly linked to a reduced absorption of calcium. Therefore, many Depo users are prescribed calcium supplements which they are advised to take every day. But the good part is that besides being an effective method for preventing pregnancy, the Depo shot is administered through a three-month schedule. As long as the effect of the shot lasts, your periods will not occur.
IUDs or Intra-Uterine Devices are another birth control method but they are not as popular as condoms, birth control pills, or the Depo shot. IUDs are available in different formats. They either involve the insertion of a spermicidal copper device, or ones that release progestin.