There are different reasons why people, especially women, opt for birth control. A more compelling reason for using certain birth control methods is that these products also help in getting protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
While the most effective way to avoid both pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases is to refrain from sexual contact or practice total abstinence, a number of birth control options are readily available and have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. What’s good for one person may not be effective for another.
In recent years, more types of birth control methods have hit the market. Aside from prevention of pregnancy, a new wave of patches, pills, and implants has given women more control over their reproductive cycles, including the unpleasant symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.
Aside from the different factors to consider in deciding which birth control method to choose, it is also important to know their advantages and benefits, as well as their possible health risks. The list below may help you sort through your options:
The Pill – It is considered to be 98-99% effective if taken as directed. The woman using the pill would also reduce her risk of ovarian cysts, ectopic pregnancy, benign breast cysts or lumps, and endometrial and ovarian cancer. Generally not prescribed for women who smoke, are over age 35, and have families (or personal) history of certain health problems.
This is a once-a-week contraception for women who can’t or don’t want to take daily pills. Generally not prescribed for women who smoke, are over age 35, and have families (or personal) history of blood clots; uterine, liver, or breast cancers; serious heart problems (like heart attack); and stroke.
It’s a once-a-month form of contraception for women who don’t want to take daily pills. It reduces risk of ovarian cysts, ectopic pregnancy, benign breast cysts or lumps, and endometrial and ovarian cancer. Generally not prescribed for women who smoke, are over age 35, and have families (or personal) history of blood clots; uterine, liver, or breast cancers; serious heart problems (like heart attack); and stroke.
IUD (Intrauterine Device) – This device is considered to be 99.9% effective. It can prevent pregnancy for up to 5 years and does not contain estrogen. About 20% of women have no period after one year.
Implant – The implant is believed to be more than 99% effective. It may cause unpredictable and irregular monthly periods and spotting may occur.
Permanent Birth Control – As a permanent birth control method, it is considered to be 99.8% effective based on four years of follow-up. Works for both very thin and overweight women. Since no birth control procedure is 100% absolutely effective, there is always a risk of pregnancy.
There are different reasons why people, especially women, opt for birth control. A more compelling reason for using certain birth control methods is that these products also help in getting protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
While the most effective way to avoid both pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases is to refrain from sexual contact or practice total abstinence, a number of birth control options are readily available and have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Permanent Birth Control – As a permanent birth control method, it is considered to be 99.8% effective based on four years of follow-up. Since no birth control procedure is 100% absolutely effective, there is always a risk of pregnancy.
