Choosing when to start a family is an important decision. While you make this decision there are many family planning methods available to provide protection.
Many family planning methods are available, including contraceptive pills, condoms, intrauterine devices, diaphragms, contraceptive patches and contraceptive vaginal rings. With so many choices available, making an informed choice can be daunting. Do your homework, learn the benefits and drawbacks of each method and then decide which method meets your needs.
Oral Contraceptives
More commonly known as "the pill," oral contraceptives have been widely available since the 1960s. Oral contraceptives most commonly use hormones such as progestin and estrogen. These hormones work in concert to prevent the release of an egg from the ovary, thus preventing the sperm from meeting the egg and preventing pregnancy. It is important to use the pill correctly, taking doses daily and at the same time each day. Minimal side effects are associated with oral contraceptives, including small amounts of bleeding between periods or "break through bleeding" and nausea. Normally all side effects will dissipate after the first three months of consistent use. The pill is not instantly effective and an alternate method of birth control should be used for the first month. Oral contraceptives are also known to have several health benefits outside of preventing pregnancy, including decreasing risk of ovarian cancer and endometrial cancer. Oral contraceptives don't prevent sexually transmitted diseases. The condom is still necessary to protect against STDs.
Condoms
Condoms are often referred to as a "barrier method" of birth control. Condoms are often made out of latex or sheep skin and are highly effective when used properly in preventing pregnancy and from contracting most sexually transmitted diseases. Latex condoms can reduce the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhea, chlamydia and trichomoniasis and might also protect against genital herpes, syphilis and chancroid. Because the latter three infections might also be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact where the condom does not provide coverage, these infections can still be contracted despite use of a condom.
Intrauterine Devices
Several types of IUDs are available through your primary health care provider. These devices need to be inserted at a clinic, usually while a woman is menstruating and the cervix is more open. An IUD is inserted through the cervix and into the uterus and is effective immediately upon insertion. Many risks are associated with this method and it is not an option that is ideal for all women. Some risks include a higher risk for severe pelvic infections, perforation of the uterine wall and over time, the IUD could become embedded in the uterine wall. IUDs do not protect against STDs.
Vaginal Ring
A women can conveniently insert the thin, clear ring into the vagina on her own every four weeks. This provides a once per month option for women who do not like to take the pill daily. The vaginal ring releases progestin and estrogen through the vagina, preventing ovulation and thickening cervical mucous. The vaginal ring becomes effective after the first seven days of use. The vaginal ring does not protect against STDs.
Contraceptive Patch
The contraceptive patch is a 4 by 4 cm patch that is applied to the skin once per month and is worn for three weeks. The patch releases the hormones estrogen and progestin into the bloodstream, preventing ovulation and thus preventing pregnancy. For most, the patch will remain on during physical activities and even during water sports. If you apply the patch more than 24 hours after the start of your period, you will not be protected for the first week and should use an alternative method of birth control. The patch doesn't prevent against STDs.
Diaphragm
The diaphragm is a bowl-shaped device made of a thin and flexible rubber that is inserted into the vagina before intercourse. Keeping sperm from entering the uterus, the diaphragm works by blocking the cervix. Spermicide is added to the device to provide additional protection, however this must be reapplied for multiple uses of the diaphragm. The diaphragm should be replaced every two years. It doesn't protect against STDs.
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