Any method, medicine, or device used to prevent pregnancy is referred to as birth control. Women have a variety of birth control options where some are more effective than others when it comes to preventing pregnancy. Your health, desire to have children now or in the future, and desire to avoid sexually transmitted infections all influence the method of birth control you use. Your doctor will be able to advise you on which type is best for you right now.
Dr Teena Thomas, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Sarjapur, Bangalore says, “There is no best birth control method for every woman. The birth control method that is best for you and your partner is determined by a variety of factors and may change over time.”
There are several options available that should be consulted by your doctor before deciding on the options, whether you want to get pregnant soon, in a few years, or never.
What Are The Options That Women Should Be Aware Of?
Dr. Teena Thomas also tells us about the several methods of birth control that a woman should be aware of.
Abstinence
Abstinence is the only 100% effective birth control method, as well as the best way to protect yourself from STDs. You might not be ready for sex. If you don't feel ready, don't let anyone force you to have sex. It is a significant decision with serious emotional and physical ramifications.
Female Sterilization – Tubal Ligation
Tubal ligation is a surgical procedure used to tie the fallopian tubes of a woman. This results in permanent sterility by preventing the ovum from reaching the uterus. This also prevents sperm from passing up the tube, where fertilization normally occurs.
Progestin Arm Implant – Nexplanon
It is a single rod of hormone inserted directly under the skin of the upper arm. Over a three-year period, it delivers a progestin hormone and prevents pregnancy.
Intrauterine Device (IUD)
It is a small, flexible T-shaped device that is implanted within the uterus (womb). There are two kinds of IUDs - A copper IUD and hormonal IUD.
Hormonal Contraception In Combination
The contraception includes birth control pills, patch, and vaginal rings. Women use birth control pills, patches, and rings, to avoid pregnancy. The pill is taken once a day, the vaginal ring once a month, and the patch is changed once a week.
Cervical Cap
The cervical cap is a soft rubber or plastic thimble-shaped cup that fits comfortably over the cervix. This functions very similarly with the diaphragm.
The Female Condom
It is a flexible ring at each end of a lubricated polyurethane tube. The tube's one end is closed. The condom prevents sperm from entering the uterus.
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Are Birth Control Pills Safe?
Dr Teena Thomas also adds, “Hormonal birth control methods, such as the pill, are safe for the vast majority of women. Hormone doses in today's birth control pills are lower than in the past. This has reduced the likelihood of adverse effects and serious health problems.”
Some women may benefit from today's birth control pills, such as a lower risk of certain types of cancer. Newer generation oral contraceptive pills may also help in weight reduction. If used under the guidance of your gynaecologist, it may result in minimal side effects.
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Conclusion
The best method of birth control for you is one that is safe, comfortable, and easy for you to use consistently and correctly. Your preferred method of birth control may change throughout your life and is influenced by a variety of factors, including age and medical history, your reproductive objectives, relationship variables such as marital status, number of sexual partners, frequency of sex, and partner preferences and religious convictions.
It is essential to understanding the birth control options that suit you the best. A genuine assessment of yourself and your relationships is equally important when determining which type of birth control should be used.