Overview:
Birth Control Methods: The importance of birth control in family planning is essential, especially for the couple, so that they can decide when to start their family and how many children to have. As numerous procedures are available, it may not be easy to differentiate one from another and ultimately make a selection.
In this blog, we will break down the most-searched-for birth control techniques, their categories, and their options for both male and female patients in detail.
What Are Different Birth Control Methods?
Family planning about having children is made easy via the methods of birth control, also known as methods of contraception, through one way or more of affecting the ovulation, fusion or egg-implantation process.
They also include methods that can prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Depending on one’s health and goals in life, there is a way for every person.
What Are the Most Effective Birth Control Methods?
When it comes to contraception, effectiveness is an important consideration. There are many methods available that claim to prevent pregnancy; however, some are better than others. The most effective birth control methods, according to typical-use effectiveness, are:
Intrauterine Device (IUD)
Effectiveness Rate: 99%
An IUD is a T-shaped plastic device that is placed within the uterus and can contain estrogen hormones or copper. It stops instances of fertilization and ranks as among the most effective types of birth control.
Birth Control Implants
Effectiveness Rate: 99%
Implants consist of small rods surgically implanted under the skin of the patient’s arm. They serve the function of hormonal birth control, which prevents the release of eggs. With little maintenance required, they are effective for three years.
Sterilization (tubal ligation in women and vasectomy in men)
Effectiveness Rate: 99%
Surgical sterilization is a procedure in which a woman’s fallopian tubes or a man’s vas deferens are cut or blocked as a permanent means of contraception.
Contraceptive Injectable
Effectiveness Rate: 94%
The contraceptive injection is given at intervals of 3 months and contains progestin substances. The use of progestin inhibits the ovulation process and makes cervical mucus thicker.
Birth Control Pills
Effectiveness Rate: 91%
Oral birth control pills must be taken regularly to attain maximum effectiveness in the prevention of ovulation through hormonal means. They can lose their effectiveness if regularly consumed pills are missed.
Types of Birth Control Methods
There are various birth control methods, each with different levels of convenience, effectiveness, and even side effects. It is possible to categorize birth control into five main categories.
1-Hormonal Birth Control
In this case, hormones such as progestin and estrogen are introduced into the body in artificial forms, which then control the reproduction aspects.
Examples: Birch Control Pills, the patch, the ring, and the implant.
2-Barrier Methods
These physical barriers prevent sperm from reaching the egg.
Examples: Female and male condoms, the diaphragm, and cervical caps.
3-Intrauterine Devices(IUDs)
These are also employed and inserted into the uterus to prevent the initial contact of sperm and egg.
Examples: Copper IUDs and hormonal IUDs.
4-Permanent Methods
The implication of these procedures always suggests that they are permanent and do not incorporate inherent reversibility.
Examples: Tubal ligation for women and vasectomy for men.
5- Natural Methods
Natural methods rely on the understanding of the menstrual cycle to prevent pregnancy without any medical intervention.
Examples: Fertility awareness methods and withdrawal.
Birth Control Methods Implant
Self-Contained Birth Control Implant This process involves the introduction of a birth control implant by a trained professional who will place a small flexible rod resembling a matchstick into one’s upper arm, preferably under the skin surface.
This implant was designed to discharge a particular hormone called progestin. Progestin blocks Ovule production and elevates the viscosity of strategic reproductive pathways, rendering sperm motion ineffective.
Efficiency: 99%
Period of Effectiveness: Up to three years.
Advantages: It is unnoticeable, does not need much upkeep, and is extremely effective.
Considerations: Weight gain, irregularity in cycles or emotional disturbances could be possible side effects.
Birth Control Methods Effectiveness Chart
Here’s a chart of the effectiveness of various birth control methods when used perfectly and typically (i.e., with typical human error):
| Method | Effectiveness (Perfect Use) | Effectiveness (Typical Use) |
| IUD (Copper or Hormonal) | 99% | 99% |
| Implant | 99% | 99% |
| Sterilization (Female/Male) | 99% | 99% |
| Contraceptive Injection | 94% | 94% |
| Birth Control Pills | 99% | 91% |
| Male Condoms | 98% | 85% |
| Female Condoms | 95% | 79% |
| Diaphragm | 94% | 88% |
| Natural Family Planning | 95% | 76% |
Birth Control Methods for Female
Women have a wide range of birth control options to choose from, including hormonal and non-hormonal methods. Some of the most popular female-specific birth control methods include:
- Birth Control Pills
Hormonal pills are taken daily to prevent ovulation.
- IUD (Intrauterine Device)
A small device is inserted into the uterus that prevents fertilization or implantation.
- The Birth Control Patch
A hormonal patch on the skin releases hormones to prevent pregnancy.
- Birth Control Shot (Depo-Provera)
An injectable form of birth control that releases progestin every three months.
- Female Condom
A barrier method that covers the inside of the vagina and prevents sperm from entering.
Birth Control Methods for Male
Men also have several birth control methods available, with a few permanent and non-permanent options:
- Condoms
Male condoms are a barrier method worn over the penis to prevent sperm from entering the vagina. They also protect against STIs.
- Vasectomy
A permanent surgical method where the vas deferens (the tubes that carry sperm) are cut or blocked, preventing sperm from reaching the semen.
- Male Birth Control Pills (in development)
Researchers are working on developing hormonal pills or injections for men that would suppress sperm production.
Birth Control Natural Methods
In natural methods, a woman’s cycle of fertility is determined, and risks of sex in a certain period of her fable are avoided. These methods understand the menstrual cycle and the following include:
- Fertility Awareness Method (FAM) : It involves tracking your body’s signals (temperature, cervical mucus, etc.) to determine fertile days.
- Withdrawal Method (Pull Out): It involves the male partner pulling out before ejaculation, though this method has a higher failure rate due to pre-ejaculation.
Conclusion
When it comes to selecting a birth control method, it has to be an active decision made after keen consideration of the desired effectiveness, comfort, and effects of the method, as well as the family’s objective.
Hormonal, nonhormonal, or natural family planning methods all require prior consultations with a healthcare provider for the suitable one to be recommended for the patient.
Remember, do keep in mind that some individual factors will affect the effectiveness of different methods of birth control, so it is wise to be educated and choose a method that is appropriate for your health and your lifestyle.
Ask your friends and loved ones for support.
If you’re feeling anxious or depressed, consider joining a support group or seeking counseling. Believe in your ability to take control of the pain…
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