Birth Control Options
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For centuries, people have been trying to discover ways to have sex while avoiding pregnancy. As far back as ancient Egypt, men wore sheaths over their penises during intercourse to avoid pregnancy. Today, there are many birth control options available.
The first birth control option is the male condom. Condoms not only help reduce the incidence of STDs and AIDS, they are also very effective at preventing pregnancy. Used exactly as instructed and used every time during intercourse, the male condom is around 97% effective at preventing pregnancy. During typical use, condoms are around 86% effective at preventing pregnancy. Most condom failures occur because of improper use of the condom. Condoms are most effective when used correctly and used alongside spermicides. Condoms are easily obtained and relatively inexpensive.
Another option is the female condom. One end of the female condom is placed inside the vagina, covering the cervix. The female condom is not as effective as the male condom at preventing either STDs or pregnancy. Female condoms are also more expensive than male condoms.
A spermicide is a chemical that can kill or disable sperm to prevent pregnancy. The most common spermicide is called nonoxynol-9. Spermicides may come in a variety of forms, such as cream, foam, suppositories, film, or jelly. Spermicides are typically inserted shortly before intercourse. Spermicides used alone are not as effective as condoms at preventing pregnancy. When used as directed and under optimal conditions, spermicides are around 80% effective at preventing pregnancy. Because circumstances vary, the typical use of spermicide is closer to 70% effective at preventing pregnancy.
Many women choose to use Birth Control Pills to prevent pregnancy. When used correctly, they are over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. If you forget to take them, or if you are on an antibiotic, or if you take them at different times of the day, their effectiveness are reduced. Some women may experience side effects of the pill, such as painful breasts, nausea, headaches, and depression. Birth Control Pills do not protect against STDs. Your insurance provider may pay for Birth Control Pills.
Norplant is made up of six small capsules that are implanted in your arm. Over a long period, typically five years, they slowly release hormones that will prevent pregnancy. Norplant has a success rate of over 96%. Like Birth Control Pills, Norplant offers no protection against STDs. Many insurance plans will not cover Norplant.
Depo-Provera, sometimes referred to as a “depo shot,” is an injection that gradually releases in the bloodstream over a three month period. Depo is 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. Side effects can include weight gain, and some research suggests an increased risk of breast cancer. Depo does not offer any protection against STDs.
The diaphragm is a shallow Frisbee-like cup that you fill with spermicide and insert into the vagina before having sex. Diaphragms are individually fitted. They are around 94% effective is used consistently and correctly. The diaphragm takes practice to put in correctly, and you must insert it shortly before having sex.
The rhythm method is based on the idea that you won’t have sex when you are fertile. This works best for women who have a regular cycle, and perfectly practice the rhythm method. This method does require constant vigilance, and cooperation of your partner. For religious and other reasons, this is the preferred birth control method for many women.
The choice of birth control depends on factors such as a person’s health, frequency of sexual activity, number of partners, and desire to have children in the future. Effectiveness rates, based on statistical estimates, are another key consideration. Religious beliefs certainly play a part, as well. Ultimately, the best approach is to make an informed decision based on all of the facts. Whatever method you use, It is important to practice it correctly to insure success.
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