An unplanned pregnancy might be a happy surprise for some couples, but for some people the timing couldn’t be worse. There are numerous types of birth control available and while none are 100 percent guaranteed effective, when used properly they can help you prevent an unwanted pregnancy.
Birth control comes in several different forms: barrier, horomonal, interauterine devices (IUD), natural and post sexual activity birth control.
Barrier Methods
The condom is the most common and most familiar barrier birth control option. Condoms worn by men are 87-90 percent effective. There is the female condom, which is inserted into the vagina before sex, and is about 79 percent effective.
Spermicides are also considered a barrier method. In a foam, gel, or suppository, the spermicide kills sperm.
The diaphragm and cervical caps are also barriers. Both are available by prescription and must be fitted by a gynecologist. Each are 80-82 percent effective and are usually used with a spermicide.
The sponge is another barrier method of birth control. The little sponge contains spermicide and is placed over the cervix. Unfortunately the sponge is only 64-82 percent effective and is easily dislodged out of place.
Intrauterine Device (IUD)
There are two types of IUD – one with hormones and one containing copper. They are meant to interfere with the way sperm travel to reach the egg. The hormone releasing IUD is about 98 percent effective. Side effects may include increased risk for pelvic inflammatory disease and a 50 percent risk of miscarriage if you become pregnant while wearing an IUD.
The Pill and The Patch
The birth control pill and birth control patch are the most commonly prescribed forms of method birth control. Both prevent ovulation by administering hormones on a daily basis. Birth control pills come in minipills and combined oral contraceptive form. Minipills contain progestin, which thickens cervical mucus so the sperm can’t reach the egg and are slightly less effective than combined oral contraceptives. While they are about 97 percent effective, monitoring is important to ensure you are not having an adverse reaction. There is increased risk of blood clots and stroke with hormone methods. It is very important to speak with your doctor about the pros and cons of any hormone birth control method, as some women may not be able to use them.
Norplant Birth Control
Norplant is made from little tiny rubber rods containing progestin. Norplant is placed under the skin in your upper arm. It then releases the progestin into the body slowly over time. There are two types of Norplant – six rods for a five-year progestin release and a two rod for birth control for two years.
Natural Birth Control
Natural birth control is also called the rhythm method of birth control. It involves knowing exactly when the woman is ovulating and avoiding sex during that time. Body temperature and cervical mucus are also used to know when to avoid sex. Does it work? For some women it may, but most women have times when their cycle is irregular and ovulation can be unpredictable. While some women swear by this method of birth control, pregnancy is still a high risk.
Knowing what works and what doesn’t work is important when it comes to planning or preventing pregnancy. Speak with your doctor or ob/gyn and get the facts to make the right choice for you.
