Birth Control Methods & Option

OVERVIEW

Birth control is a means of preventing conception used by both men and women. There are several birth control methods available. By understanding more about the options, you can decide which path is best for you and your spouse.

If you are sexually active and do not desire a child, do not put off using birth control. An unexpected pregnancy can occur at any time you have unprotected sex.

If you’re thinking about utilizing birth control (contraception), you have several options.

For some people, the most convenient kind of birth control is one that is simple to use, has no unpleasant side effects, and does not interfere with sexual experience. Others prefer that no prescription be required. Consider how willing you are to plan or adhere to a strict drug regimen when selecting a form of birth control. 

Some contraception methods are inexpensive, while others are more expensive. Inquire with your insurance provider about your coverage, and then weigh the cost in your selection.

METHODS AND OPTIONS

  • Barrier method

Male and female condoms, as well as the diaphragm, cervical cap, and contraceptive sponge, are all examples. 

  • Hormonal techniques that work quickly 

Birth control pills, as well as the vaginal ring (NuvaRing), skin patch (Xulane), and contraceptive injection, are examples (Depo-Provera). These are considered short-acting techniques since they must be used on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis.

  • Long-acting hormonal treatments 

Copper IUDs (ParaGard), hormonal IUDs (Mirena, Skyla, Kyleena, and others), and contraceptive implants are examples (Nexplanon). These are considered long-acting methods because, depending on the device, they continue for three to ten years after installation, or until you opt to have the device removed. 

  • Sterilization 

This is a long-term birth control strategy. The two examples of sterilization would be tubal ligation for women and vasectomy for men.

  • Vaginal gel or spermicide

These are nonhormonal birth control methods. Spermicide is a kind of contraception that either kills or prevents sperm from migrating. Vaginal pH regulator gel (Phexxi) prevents sperm from migrating, preventing them from reaching an egg to fertilize it. These products are applied to the vagina just before sex.

  • Fertility awareness techniques 

These approaches are based on basal body temperature and cervical mucus to determine which days of the month you are viable. You avoid having sex on or around the days you are fertile, or you utilize a barrier method of birth control. 

It is also critical to be aware of emergency contraceptive options, such as the morning-after pill (Plan B One-Step, Aftera, ella, and others), which can be taken to prevent pregnancy following unprotected sex.

BIRTH CONTROL EFFECTIVENESS AND WORK PROCESS

Any form of contraception must be used consistently and correctly to be effective. Low-effort methods of contraception like IUDs, contraceptive implants, and sterilization are linked to lower pregnancy rates. Contrarily, strategies that call for regular abstinence or fertility monitoring are linked to higher pregnancy rates.

Birth control methods differ in their effectiveness. Birth control methods may include: 

  • Stop sperm from reaching the egg. 
  • Sperm inactivation or damage 
  • Prevent the release of an egg every month. 
  • Changing the uterine lining to prevent attachment of a fertilized egg to it. 
  • Increase the cervical mucus thickness to prevent easy sperm passage.

BIRTH CONTROL SIDE EFFECTS

Think about whether you can tolerate the potential side effects of a particular birth control method. Some techniques are more likely to cause side effects than others, some of which may be serious. However, you can discuss your medical history with your doctor and how it may impact the method of birth control you choose.

Moreover, Depo-Provera, an injectable contraceptive, is said to have the most side effects. Oral contraceptives are reported to have the most side effects, while IUDs and the NuvaRing are reported to have the fewest. Abstinence is the only 100% effective birth control and the best way to protect yourself from STDs.

Hormonal Birth Control Method Side Effects

Common birth control pill side effects: 

  • Nausea/Vomiting 
  • Skin discoloration due to weight gain 
  • Acne 
  • Bleeding or spotting between periods 
  • Swings in mood 
  • Menstrual flow variation 
  • Breast enlargement or tenderness

Heart attacks, blood clots, and strokes are all possible and serious side effects of oral contraceptives. 

Cigarette smoking raises the likelihood of these complications. This risk is greatest in women over 35 who smoke heavily (more than 15 cigarettes per day). If you use birth control pills, your doctor will most likely advise you to stop smoking.

Barrier Method Side Effects

Barrier methods of birth control can have the following side effects: 

  • When using a diaphragm and spermicide, there is an increased risk of developing urinary tract infections (UTIs). 
  • If you leave a diaphragm or cervical cap in for more than 24 hours, you are more likely to develop toxic shock syndrome. 
  • Some people may be allergic to the ingredients in spermicide creams or other spermicide products. They may experience vaginal or penile irritation.

One advantage of using barrier methods is that they reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases (especially properly used condoms). None of them eliminates the risk.

Emergency Contraception Side Effects

Nausea, vomiting, headache, fatigue, dizziness, breast tenderness, and lower abdominal pain are all symptoms.

IUD Side Effects

Side effects of IUDs (depends on the type of IUD used) : 

  • Copper-containing IUDs may aggravate menstrual cramps and bleed. 
  • Uterine perforation or puncture is a rare complication of all IUDs. 
  • Hormone-containing IUDs may cause the same side effects as hormonal contraceptives, such as headaches, breast tenderness, or acne.

PRECAUTION TAKING BIRTH CONTROL WITH ANXIETY HISTORY

Anxiety can be managed in many ways. From cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) sessions and counseling to simple at-home activities like yoga and meditation. 

Abood believes that lifestyle changes such as eating nutritious foods and exercising regularly can also help. 

Of course, you can change your birth control method as well.

Changing your birth control method may help you feel less anxious. However, there’s a chance it won’t make a difference. 

If you start to feel anxious or have other mood changes, you should consider switching to a nonhormonal form of contraception. On the list are: 

  • Copper IUD
  • Diaphragm
  • Condoms

LARC (long-acting reversible contraception) is another option. 

Trusted Source for those who are concerned about forgetting to take a pill or apply a patch. 

Fortunately, online birth control information can also help you to clear your doubts. Speak with your doctor if you already have an anxiety issue or are concerned about a particular method of contraception. 

Be as honest as possible. Remember, they must assist you in determining which method of birth control is best for you. 

If you are concerned that your current contraception is impacting your mood, keep a record of your symptoms and show it to your doctor. The sooner they can deal with those symptoms, the better. 

Your doctor can then advise you on self-help techniques, send you to a mental health specialist for counseling, or prescribe medication, such as an antidepressant.

THE BOTTOM LINE

It’s tough to say whether hormonal birth control will help or hurt anxiety. Just because someone else has a terrible experience does not guarantee that you will as well. However, before choosing a contraceptive, consider the potential side effects. If you’re concerned, consult a doctor. They will collaborate with you to discover a solution that meets your requirements.


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