Birth control methods: which one do I choose?

Do you know what contraceptive methods exist? In this article, we-shed light on the subject so that you have all the information of interest in your hands. Contraceptive methods guarantee that, when used correctly, they will fulfill their task of preventing an unwanted pregnancy.

But before blindly making a decision, it is best to consult with a Primary Care doctor or specialist in Gynecology to explain in detail the particularities of each one and which is ideal for you: for your age, for safety for your health (if you have allergies or diseases, high blood pressure, you smoke …) and your situation (sex life, lifestyle…).

Also, depending on your choice, you will not only prevent conception, but you will be ensuring every important protection against STDs, something to consider, especially if you do not have a stable partner. We analyze the best options you have at your fingertips.

Non-hormonal methods of contraception

Male and female condom or condom

Important contraceptive method to take into account because it is the only one that, in addition to preventing pregnancy, can avoid contracting sexually transmitted diseases.

There are two types of condoms: the best-known condom, also called a male condom placed on the penis, and the so-called female condom, which is placed inside the vagina immediately before sex. The effectiveness of both lies in that they are placed well, and care is taken not to break it before starting to have any sexual contact.

Copper Intrauterine Device (IUD)

The IUD is a small, flexible, often T-shaped, copper-wrapped device that a medical professional places inside the womb. It is a long-lasting contraceptive method because it is maintained for a minimum of 5 to 7 years without touching or extracting it. This type of IUD does not contain hormones but copper, which repels sperm.

Diaphragm

This contraceptive method, shaped like a small cup, is composed of soft and flexible rubber or silicone. Like the ring and IUD, it is placed inside the vagina to cover the cervix and prevent sperm from passing through. It is recommended to-use it together with a spermicide as it increases its effectiveness.

There are several sizes, and their placement can be confusing; it is recommended to go to the gynecological consultation to do an initial test and find the appropriate diaphragm size. After each use, this method requires proper cleaning to keep it in optimal condition. It’s usually a good option when you don’t want to use a hormone-based form of birth control.

Hormonal contraceptive methods

Pill

It contains hormonesestrogen, and progeny, which act as ovulation inhibitors so that the ovaries do not release eggs that can be fertilized.

Its use is widespread among women after the condom is the second most used contraceptive method in Spain. It is taken orally, and although this may be comfortable, the truth is that it requires a routine in terms of its administration, and you have to remember it daily.

In general, you must ingest one pill a day for 21 days, after which and after the box is finished, you have to stop to lower the period. After a week, you have to start retaking it, with a new package, in a new cycle of 21 days. However, the intake and deadlines should be marked by a specialist depending on each woman.

Vaginal ring

The vaginal ring is-a hormonal contraceptive method that, as the name suggests, is shaped like a ring. It is made of flexible silicone and is easily placed inside the vagina, just like a tampon, where it must be kept for three weeks. After three weeks, it should be removed for seven days, and the period will occur. After that seven-day break, a new one should be placed.

Hormonal Intrauterine Device (IUD)

The hormonal IUD-is a small T-shaped device that releases small amounts of hormones and is placed inside the womb. It must be done by a professional. It is a long-lasting contraceptive method because it is maintained for a minimum of 5 to 7 years without touching or extracting it. The IUD works by thickening-cervical mucus to block sperm or inhibit ovulation.

Contraceptive implant

It is a small plastic cannula similar to a match, placed subcutaneously on the inside of the arm to stay there for three to five years. The implant releases progestin, a hormone that, on the one hand, thickens cervical mucus, which acts as a barrier against sperm, and on the other can prevent ovulation and, therefore, fertilization, which makes it a very comfortable and effective method of contraception. Your gynecologist or gynecologist should do the placement and extraction.

Contraceptive patch

It consists of placing a transdermal patch on the skin that releases hormones, estrogen, and progestin, absorbed through it, and should not be removed while you want to maintain its effectiveness. It is put one a week for three weeks, and week four must be released to decrease menstruation. It is comfortable and easy to use and, above all, as effective as the pill and the vaginal ring.

Contraceptive injection

Once every three months, your doctor or a nurse will apply it to you. The injection contains hormones that prevent ovulation and, therefore, that a pregnancy occurs. It is a very safe and fast method and indicated for those women who are not afraid of needles or punctures.

Enjoy your sex safely and with the freedom that will give you to decide to use a contraceptive method to-avoid an unwanted pregnancy or having to resort to emergency contraception. It should be a matter of two because the idea is that the stork arrives when expected.