Natural contraceptive
Natural contraceptive methods, also known as fertility awareness-based methods (FABMs) or natural family planning, involve tracking and monitoring a person’s fertility and menstrual cycle to determine the fertile and non-fertile periods. These methods do not rely on the use of hormones, devices, or barriers and are based on the principle of abstaining from sexual intercourse or using a barrier method during fertile periods to prevent pregnancy. Here are some common natural contraceptive methods:
Calendar-Based Methods:
- Standard Days Method: This method is based on a fixed calculation of the menstrual cycle. It assumes that a woman with a regular cycle of 26-32 days is fertile between days 8 and 19 (counting from the first day of the menstrual period). Couples can avoid unprotected intercourse during this period.
Symptothermal Method:
- The symptothermal method combines multiple signs of fertility, such as tracking menstrual cycle length, basal body temperature (BBT), cervical mucus changes, and cervix position. By monitoring these signs, individuals can identify fertile and non-fertile days.
Cervical Mucus Method:
- This method involves tracking changes in cervical mucus throughout the menstrual cycle. Cervical mucus becomes more slippery and transparent when a woman is fertile, indicating the time of ovulation.
Basal Body Temperature (BBT) Method:
- BBT is the body’s resting temperature taken in the morning before getting out of bed. A woman’s BBT rises slightly after ovulation. By tracking BBT over time, individuals can identify the fertile window.
Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM):
- LAM is a natural method that relies on breastfeeding to suppress ovulation. It is effective when the following conditions are met: exclusive breastfeeding, no menstruation, and the baby is under six months old.
It’s essential to understand that natural contraceptive methods require consistent and accurate tracking of fertility signs, which can be challenging, and they are generally less effective than other contraceptive methods. The effectiveness of natural methods varies depending on the individual’s ability to correctly interpret and follow the method’s guidelines.
While natural contraceptive methods can be used by individuals or couples who have specific reasons for avoiding hormonal or barrier methods, they do not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Barrier contraceptive Methods
Barrier contraceptives are methods of contraception that physically block sperm from reaching an egg. They create a barrier between the sperm and the female reproductive system, thus preventing fertilization. These methods are typically available without a prescription and offer a non-hormonal and non-invasive way to prevent pregnancy. Here are some common barrier contraceptive methods:
Male Condom: This is a sheath made of latex or polyurethane that is placed over the erect penis before sexual intercourse. It traps the sperm and prevents them from entering the vagina. Male condoms also provide some protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Female Condom: A female condom is a polyurethane or nitrile pouch that is inserted into the vagina before sex. It lines the vagina and provides a barrier to sperm. Female condoms can be inserted up to eight hours before intercourse.
Diaphragm: A diaphragm is a shallow, dome-shaped device made of latex or silicone that a woman inserts into her vagina before sex. It covers the cervix and prevents sperm from entering. A diaphragm should be used with a spermicide for better effectiveness.
Cervical Cap: Similar to a diaphragm, a cervical cap is a small, cup-like device made of silicone that fits over the cervix. It is used with spermicide and provides a barrier to sperm.
Sponge: The contraceptive sponge is a soft, disposable device that is inserted into the vagina before sex. It contains spermicide and covers the cervix, preventing sperm from entering.
Spermicide: Spermicide is a chemical substance, available in various forms such as creams, gels, foams, suppositories, and film. It is applied inside the vagina to immobilize and kill sperm.
Cervical Shield: This is a newer form of cervical barrier contraceptive made of silicone. It covers the cervix and, when used with spermicide, provides a barrier to sperm.
Hormonal contraceptive methods
Hormonal contraceptive methods use synthetic hormones to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and altering the uterine lining. These methods are highly effective when used correctly. Here are common hormonal contraceptive methods:
Birth Control Pills (Oral Contraceptives): These are daily pills containing synthetic hormones, typically a combination of estrogen and progestin (combined pills) or progestin alone (mini-pills). They work by inhibiting ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and thinning the uterine lining.
Birth Control Patch: The contraceptive patch is a small, adhesive patch that is worn on the skin and delivers hormones through the skin. It is usually changed weekly for three weeks, followed by one week without a patch.
Birth Control Shot (Depo-Provera): The shot contains a progestin hormone and is administered by a healthcare provider every 12 to 13 weeks.
Birth Control Implant (e.g., Nexplanon): A small, flexible rod is inserted under the skin of the upper arm and releases progestin hormones. It provides contraceptive protection for several years.
Intrauterine Devices (IUDs): IUDs are small, T-shaped devices placed in the uterus. There are two types:
- Hormonal IUDs: These release progestin hormones and provide long-term contraception, typically for 3-5 years.
- Copper IUDs: Copper IUDs do not contain hormones but are still considered highly effective. They can provide contraception for up to 10 years.
Vaginal Ring (NuvaRing): This is a flexible, hormonal ring inserted into the vagina, releasing estrogen and progestin. It is left in place for three weeks and then removed for one week to allow for a menstrual period.
Emergency Contraception (Morning-After Pill): These are high-dose hormonal pills or copper IUDs used after unprotected intercourse to prevent pregnancy. They work by delaying or preventing ovulation.
Permanent contraceptive method
Permanent contraceptive methods, also known as sterilization, are options for individuals or couples who have decided that they do not want to have more children or any children in the future. These methods are considered permanent because they are intended to be long-lasting or irreversible. Here are two common permanent contraceptive methods:
Tubal Ligation (Female Sterilization): This surgical procedure involves the blocking, sealing, or cutting of the fallopian tubes, which prevents eggs from traveling from the ovaries to the uterus. It is usually performed under general anesthesia or through minimally invasive techniques. Tubal ligation is a permanent form of contraception and is typically not intended to be reversed. In some cases, however, tubal reversal surgery can be attempted to restore fertility.
Vasectomy (Male Sterilization): Vasectomy is a surgical procedure that involves cutting or blocking the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra. This prevents sperm from being released during ejaculation. Vasectomy is a permanent method of contraception. While it can sometimes be reversed through vasectomy reversal surgery, the success of reversal varies, and it is not guaranteed to restore fertility.
Both of these permanent contraceptive methods are highly effective in preventing pregnancy and are intended to be long-lasting or permanent. They do not involve the use of hormones, and they do not typically affect sexual function or desire. The decision to undergo sterilization should be carefully considered and is usually best for individuals or couples who are certain they do not want to have more children.
