Methodsof contraception include oral contraceptive pills, implants, injectables, patches, vaginal rings, intra uterine devices, condoms, male and female sterilization, lactational amenorrhea methods, withdrawal and fertility awareness-based methods. These methods have different mechanisms of action and effectiveness in preventing unintended pregnancy. Effectiveness of methods is measured by the number of pregnancies per 100 women using the method per year. Methods are classified by their effectiveness as commonly used into:
WHO is working to promote contraception by producing evidence-based guidelines on safety and service delivery of contraceptive methods and on ensuring human rights in contraceptive programmes. WHO assists countries to adapt and implement these tools to strengthen contraceptive policies and programmes. Additionally, WHO participates in developing new contraceptive technologies to and leads and conducts implementation research for expanding access to and strengthening delivery contraceptive information and services.
Many elements need to be considered when choosing a contraceptive method. These include safety, effectiveness, availability (including accessibility and affordability), side effects, user control, reversibility, and ease of removal or discontinuation. Contraceptive methods should be chosen through voluntary, informed choice.
You should also consider dual protection from Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Although hormonal contraceptives and intrauterine devices (IUDs) are highly effective at preventing pregnancy, they do not protect against STIs, including HIV. Consistent and correct use of the external (male) latex condom reduces the risk for HIV infection and other STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis.
Emergency contraception is not a regular method of birth control. Emergency contraception can be used after no birth control was used during sex, or if the birth control method failed, such as if a condom broke.
It is a small plastic stick (about 4 cm long) that is placed under the skin of your upper arm. It slowly releases a low dose of the hormone progestogen, which stops your ovaries releasing an egg each month.
When given on time, each injection is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. This method stops ovulation and makes the fluid at the opening to the uterus (womb) thicker, stopping sperm from getting through.
Oral contraception needs to be taken around the same time each day. It is available on prescription (script) which you take to the pharmacy.
There are 2 types of contraceptive pills available in Australia:
There are many types of combined pills with different doses and hormones. Some brands are more expensive than others and if you have a healthcare card, cheaper brands are available. Ask your pharmacist for more information.
The traditional low dose progestogen only pill is different to the combined pill as you usually still ovulate (release an egg) each month. It may not be as effective (up to 99%) as the new standard dose progestogen only pill and the combined pill. It needs to be taken strictly every day at the same time.
Condoms also lessen the risk of STIs. They are very effective because they block the exchange of body fluids during anal, oral, vaginal, some skin-to-skin contact and sharing of vibrators and sex toys.
The external (or male) condom is a is a strong latex (rubber) pouch that is put over the erect penis to stop sperm from getting into the vagina. Non-latex ones are available for people who have a latex allergy.
Internal condoms come in one size. They are stronger than external condoms and can be put in several hours before having sex. Use a new condom each time you have sex.
Using this method may take some practice.
Diaphragms can be tricky to insert. It is recommended that a doctor or a nurse checks that you are able insert it correctly before it is used as contraception. Check with a doctor or nurse to find out if the diaphragm is a good option for you.
Although highly effective at preventing pregnancy, it can take around 3 months for a vasectomy to begin working (that is, no sperm is present in the semen). Use another form of contraception during this time and have sperm tests with your doctor.
Natural family planning (or fertility awareness) methods are overall not as effective as other forms of contraception. They are built on trust between partners and not having sex at times when you could get pregnant.
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To be effective, any method of contraception must be used consistently and correctly. Contraceptives that require little effort on your part, such as IUDs, contraceptive implants and sterilization, are associated with lower pregnancy rates. In contrast, methods that require monitoring fertility or periodic abstinence are associated with higher pregnancy rates.
The method of contraception you choose depends on your reproductive goals. If you're planning pregnancy in the near future, you may want a method that's easily stopped or quickly reversible, such as a short-acting hormonal method or a barrier method. If you want to prevent pregnancy for a longer amount of time, you may consider a long-acting method, such as an IUD. If you're certain that you don't want to get pregnant at any time in the future, you may prefer a permanent method, such as sterilization. You may find that different contraceptive options work for you at different stages of your life.
It's important to choose a type of birth control that suits your lifestyle. For some people, the most convenient form of birth control may be one that is easy to use, has no bothersome side effects or does not disrupt the sexual experience. For others, convenience means no prescription is required. When choosing a method of birth control, consider how willing you are to plan ahead or follow a rigid medication schedule.
Male and female condoms are the only methods of birth control that offer reliable protection from sexually transmitted infections. Unless you are in a mutually monogamous relationship and have been tested for sexually transmitted infections, use a new condom every time you have sex in addition to any other method of birth control you use.
In addition to preventing pregnancy, some contraceptives provide benefits such as more predictable, lighter menstrual cycles, a decreased risk of sexually transmitted infections or a reduction in the risk of some cancers. If these benefits are important to you, they may influence your choice of birth control option.
Your partner may have birth control preferences that are similar to or different from your own. Discuss birth control options with your partner to help determine which method is acceptable to both of you.
The best method of birth control for you is one that is safe, that you are comfortable using, and that you are able to use consistently and correctly. Your preferred method of birth control may change over your lifetime and is influenced by many different factors, including:
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Birth control (contraception) is any method, medicine, or device used to prevent pregnancy. Women can choose from many different types of birth control. Some work better than others at preventing pregnancy. The type of birth control you use depends on your health, your desire to have children now or in the future, and your need to prevent sexually transmitted infections. Your doctor can help you decide which type is best for you right now.
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