A Breif Description of Contraceptives

I will be looking at different types of contraceptives in brief then latter I shall provide much detail. Let’s begin with the Combined Pill which contains oestrogen and progestogen. Being 99 percent effective it works by preventing ovulation. However,
it has side effects like nausea and vomiting which can be controlled by taking the pill at bedtime.

Another type is the Mini Pill which is a progesterone-only pill. It thickens the cervical mucus preventing the sperm from reaching the egg; and thins the lining of the womb so it is less likely to accept fertilized egg. It works best for the breast-feeding mothers.

Condoms are also contraceptives. If used correctly and regularly they are effective. Condoms prevent pregnancies and reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases. They are good since very few people are allergic to the latex which makes them.

We also have the Intrauterine System which sits in the uterus, slowly releasing progestogen. It works by thickening cervical mucus and thinning womb lining. It is 99 percent effective and lasts for five years. Among its side effects are headaches and breast tenderness. Intrauterine Device (IUD) is a popular contraceptive among married women. This device releases copper ions into the body preventing sperms from fertilizing eggs. It has no hormonal risks.

There is the Injection which is a progestogen-only injection. The progestogen prevents ovulation. Side effects include nausea, headache, weight gain, sore breast, skin rash, dizziness, depression among others. Some ladies would opt for the Implant. It is implanted under the skin of the upper arm and inhibits ovulation by releasing progestogen. It works for three years and is 99 percent effective.

A recent contraceptive is the Patch which contains oestrogen and progestogen. It helps keep the correct level of hormones in the body at all times. The bloodstream absorbs the hormone unlike the pill which is absorbed by the stomach.

Another contraceptive containing oestrogen and progestogen is the Nuvaring. It is as effective as the pill. The Sponge which is made of plastic foam and containing a spermicide can also be used. It is soft and round. It is normally inserted into the vagina before intercourse. It works best for women who have never given birth.

The most common contraceptive is the Morning after pill or Emergency pill. It is taken in one or two doses and can be started up to five days after unprotected sex. It has side effects like nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness, irregular bleeding, dizziness and headaches.

Other contraceptives are the Cervical Cap and Diaphragm. Medical experts advise people to acquire adequate knowledge before choosing a contraceptive. This decision should not be left to the lady alone, both partners should take part. The different contraceptives have different side effects on different people.

Here are related articles:

1.Cervical Cancer at a glance

2.Analysis of Family Planning Injections