Contraceptive methods are used to prevent pregnancy. The most common way of birth control is the pill, which has been available for over 50 years. There are three types of pills:
- Low-dose estrogen pills (also known as mini-pills)
- High-dose estrogen pills (also known as combined oral contraceptives or “the Pill”)
- Progestin-only hormone pills such as Ortho Evra Patch or Depo Provera injection
There are some different birth control methods available. Below is a list of contraceptive methods, their pros and cons, and how they work:
Contraceptive pills
A pill is a form of hormonal contraception. Women can use it to prevent pregnancy.
The pill contains two hormones, oestrogen and progesterone, which are taken daily for 21 days, followed by 7 days off cycle. It is one of the effective birth control methods. The pill is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy if you take it daily without fail. In addition, being consistent in taking pills helps keep hormone levels from fluctuating.
Vaginal Ring
The vaginal ring is a contraceptive method that releases hormones in your body. It’s inserted in the vagina and releases hormones that prevent pregnancy. It’s a good option for women who want to avoid taking a pill every day but aren’t ready to go on hormonal birth control like the combination pill or progestin-only ring (IUD).
The vaginal ring can be removed and replaced at any time during the month, but you’ll need to talk with your doctor about any concerns about this option before making an appointment.
Male Condom
A male condom is a barrier method of birth control that prevents sperm from entering the vagina. The condom can also help to prevent the spread of STIs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea.
Female Condom
Female condoms are a thin, soft, loose-fitting sheath inserted into the vagina before intercourse. The female condom is another method of contraception, such as birth control pills and diaphragms (condoms). The female condom should be inserted up to 8 hours before intercourse and left in place for 4 hours after sex.
Female condoms are available over-the-counter at drugstores without a prescription; they may also be purchased online or by phone from healthcare providers with special training in using them safely.
Cervical Cup
The cervical cup is a small, flexible plastic device inserted into your vagina during sex. It can be an alternative to other contraceptive methods, including condoms and diaphragms.
It blocks sperm from entering the uterus by holding onto sperm when they enter the cervix (the lower part of your womb). It prevents pregnancy from occurring—but if you have sex without using a cervical cup for at least 24 hours after last having unprotected sex with someone else (or if you haven’t had any sexual activity in 24 hours), then this method won’t work as well as it should because there aren’t any residual effects left behind from previous encounters on your body fluids or tissues.
Final Words
We hope that by reading this article, you have become more aware of your options regarding contraceptives. Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all option for everyone! It would be best if you always talked with your doctor about what is best for your specific needs and preferences.
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I tried a few different pills over the years and haven’t got on with them so now I use the contraceptive implant which is great for me. I’ve never heard of the vaginal ring before. x