Sex doesn’t have to be a risky affair and can be fun – if you use the right contraception. Fortunately, there are a variety of contraceptive methods that are adapted to different needs. You may be asking yourself: Which method is best for me? Which contraceptive method protects against STIs? What about the application? Are there any side effects? What are the costs? In this article you will get all the answers.
Condom
The condom is the only contraceptive method that both protects against most STDs and prevents pregnancy. Condoms can always be used when needed, are hormone-free, and can easily be carried in any pocket. What many don’t know: Condoms are available for both women and men:
Traditional condoms are rolled onto the erect penis and act as a physical barrier, preventing sex fluids from being transferred between people during intercourse.
The female condom, or people with vaginas, is inserted into the vagina immediately before intercourse. In typical use, the female condom is not quite as effective as the latex male condom, and it may take some practice to get used to.
Advantages: It’s the best protection against STDs, can be used as often as you want, condoms are hormone-free.
Disadvantages: It can tear or come off during sex if not used properly; some people are allergic to latex(condoms).
The Pill
The pill is one of the most commonly used birth control methods. There are different types of pills because it is about finding the right one for just your body. The combined pill contains estrogen and progestin, while the mini pill contains only one hormone, a progestin. The pill can have many benefits, however, you must remember to always take it on time.
Advantages: Highly effective when used properly; allows sexual spontaneity and does not interrupt sex; some pills can even reduce heavy and painful periods and have a positive effect on acne.
Disadvantages: If you forget to take your pill, it is less or no longer effective; it can only be used by women; it does not protect against STDs; it is a hormonal contraceptive with moderate to very severe side effects such as mood swings and depression, weight gain, increased risk of thrombosis.
The copper IUD
The copper IUD is a hormone-free contraceptive that is inserted into the uterus. It does not change the menstrual cycle. When properly fitted, it is very safe.
The copper IUD consists of a T-shaped or anchor-shaped plastic rod wrapped with a fine copper wire. Unlike the hormonal IUD, the copper IUD does not release hormones. Small amounts of copper are released from the copper wire into the uterus. This changes the lining of the uterus and the mucus at the cervix. The sperm are also restricted in their mobility and ability to fertilize. If fertilization does occur, the fertilized egg cannot implant in the uterine mucosa.
Advantages: Very effective, no hormones and during the time the IUD is in the uterus you do not have to worry about contraception.
Disadvantages: Does not protect against STDs, irregular bleeding and spotting may occur during the first six months of use; insertion and removal of the pill must be done by a health care provider and can be very painful.
The hormone stick (implant)
In this method, a small, flexible rod is inserted under the skin in the woman’s upper arm to release hormones. The hormone prevents the ovary from releasing the egg and thickens the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to enter the uterus. The implant requires a minor procedure with local anesthesia to insert and remove the rod, and must be replaced after three years.
Advantages: High effectiveness; no interruption of intercourse; long-lasting, reversible contraceptive option.
Disadvantages: Implant insertion and removal requires a trained healthcare provider; may cause irregular bleeding initially; does not protect against STDs.
The morning-after pill (emergency contraception).
The “morning-after pill” can be used to prevent pregnancy after sex if contraception was not used, a condom broke during sex, or in cases of sexual abuse. Although it is sometimes called the “morning-after pill,” it can be effective for up to five days after unprotected sex. The earlier it is taken, the more effective it is; if taken within the first three days after sex, it prevents about 85% of expected pregnancies.
The morning-after pill can be taken by any woman, including women who cannot tolerate other oral contraceptives. It can be purchased over-the-counter at a pharmacy or drugstore.
Common side effects of the morning-after pill include nausea and vomiting, severe mood swings, and temporary depressive thoughts; the next period may come sooner or later. The morning-after pill does not provide subsequent protection against STDs.
Vaginal ring or contraceptive ring
The contraceptive ring consists of a flexible plastic ring that delivers hormones locally. It is inserted in front of the uterus and can be used for three weeks. After that, it is removed and a new ring is inserted after a week’s break. The ring releases the hormones estrogen and progestin. These are the same hormones used in birth control pills, but at a lower dose.
Advantages: You can insert and remove a vaginal ring yourself without medical assistance; this birth control method has fewer side effects compared to the pill, allows you to control your period, the ring ensures that your fertility returns quickly when the ring is removed.
Disadvantages: Not suitable for women who cannot tolerate contraceptives containing estrogen; you must remember to change the ring in time; does not protect against STDs.
The diaphragm
A diaphragm is a small, soft silicone cap that is inserted into the vagina and placed in front of the cervix to prevent sperm from entering the uterus. It forms a physical barrier between the sperm and the egg, similar to a condom.
The diaphragm must stay in place for at least six hours after intercourse. After six – but no longer than 24 hours after sex – it must be removed and cleaned.
Advantages: You can use the same diaphragm for up to two years if you take good care of it.
Disadvantages: Using a diaphragm takes some practice, and you have to keep track of the number of hours you put it in. The diaphragm is quite safe when used properly, but not as safe as the pill, condoms, or an IUD.
Sterilization
Sterilization involves surgery to completely remove the body’s ability to reproduce. It is a permanent method of contraception suitable for people who are absolutely sure that they never want to have children or do not want any more children. Sterilization is available for both women and men and is performed in a hospital under general anesthesia.
If you are unsure which contraceptive method is right for you, you should talk to your health care provider about it.