Contraceptive categories and a guide to choose what is right for you
Contraceptives are your best friend if you are sexually active and don’t want an unplanned pregnancy.
However, selecting which birth control method suits you best can be an overwhelming process.
We understand and empathize with you.
Hence, this article will make the process a little easier.
Options, options, options
Studies have shown that there are more than 15 birth control methods in total. So, take your pick.
Here are a few contraceptive categories, follow these methods in order to avoid an unwanted pregnancy. Figure out which method works best for you by consulting with your doctor.
1. Birth control implants
- small flexible rods that are placed under the skin of the upper arm
- one of the most effective and long-lasting methods
- bleeding changes are common and harmless
- does not work once removed
2. Copper-bearing intrauterine device (IUD)
- a small, flexible plastic frame with copper wire around it
- inserted into the uterus by a trained provider
- one of the most effective and long-lasting methods
- bleeding changes are common
3. Combined oral contraceptives
- pills that contain both estrogen and progesterone
- take a pill a day ( Options available- 21 or 28 pills packet)
- can be given at any time to start now or later
- side effects include changes in bleeding, mood changes, and weight change
4. Combined patch
- a small adhesive patch placed on the body at all times
- replace patch on time for greatest effectiveness
- continuously releases estrogen and progesterone
- bleeding changes are common and harmless
5. Monthly injectables
- safe and suitable for nearly all women
- an injection every four weeks for greatest effectiveness
- combined contraceptive injections can be stopped at any time
- bleeding changes are common and harmless
6. Combined vaginal ring
- a flexible ring placed in the vagina
- ring must be left in place for 3 weeks
- start each ring on time for greatest effectiveness
- bleeding changes are common and harmless
7. Male condoms
- sheaths that fit over an erect penis
- forms a barrier that prevents sperm from entering the vagina, preventing pregnancy
- help protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- require correct use every time for greatest effectiveness
8. Female condoms
- sheaths made of thin, transparent, soft plastic film that fit loosely inside the vagina
- forms a barrier that prevents sperm from entering the vagina, preventing pregnancy
- help protect against STIs
- require correct use every time for greatest effectiveness
9. Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs)
- help avoid a pregnancy after sex without contraception
- safe for all women
- helps prevents a pregnancy when taken up to 5 days after unprotected sex, the sooner the better
- does not disrupt an existing pregnancy
These are some of the main birth control methods. To figure out which option is the most suitable for you, consult with your doctor, especially before starting any hormonal contraceptive method. If you have any queries at all, please feel free to reach us at Facebook or Instagram.
