Planning to have kids is a serious decision that needs one to be emotionally, physically and financially ready. Fortunately, we can still partake in sexual intimacy without having to worry about the risk of falling pregnant just as long as we stick to the birth control methods available to us.
Birth control might be able to prevent pregnancies, but they do not come without side effects. Some individuals get side effects such as headaches, heavier periods, mood swings and many more.
With many different birth control options out there, this article will look at four different types as supplied by Planned Parenthood.
Permanent Birth Control
A surgical procedure that makes a person who can produce sperm unable to cause a pregnancy or a person who can ovulate unable to become pregnant. Permanent birth control is not reversible and prevents pregnancy 99% of the time. While women can choose from bilateral tubal ligation in the hospital (aka “having your tubes tied”) or a tubal block done in a health center, men may choose a vasectomy.
Implant (Hormonal)
A small rod placed under the skin in the upper arm by a healthcare provider to prevent pregnancy 99% of the time. Less than 1 out of 100 women a year will become pregnant using the implant. The implant, which lasts for 3 years, releases the hormone progestin to stop the ovaries from releasing eggs, and it thickens cervical mucus, so it is difficult for sperm to enter the uterus.
The Pill (Hormonal)
A pill that should be taken at the same time every day for maximum effectiveness, which is often used to reduce cramping and bleeding during periods and that prevents pregnancy 99% of the time. Less than 1 out of 100 women will get pregnant each year if they take the pill each day as directed. The pill releases hormones (progestin-only or a combination of hormones) to stop the ovaries from releasing eggs and thickens cervical mucus, so it is difficult for sperm to enter the uterus.
Condoms (Non-hormonal)
Available in latex or polyurethane, condoms, which prevent pregnancy 98% of the time, are placed over an erect penis to stop sperm from entering the vagina during ejaculation. 2 out of 100 women whose partners use condoms will get pregnant if they always use condoms correctly. Insertive/female condoms are inserted into the vagina and prevent pregnancy 95% of the time. This means that 5 out of 100 women will become pregnant if the insertive condom is always used correctly. Not only are condoms arguably one of the most affordable, accessible forms of birth control, they also protect against STDs.
Also see: Ways to reduce side effects of birth control
