Everything you want to know about Contraceptives(Birth control,fertility control)

Everything you want to know about  about Contraceptives

Today, the options for birth control are numerous.Their roles too have grown from birth control to protection from sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).Traditionally in India, OCPs, IUDs and condoms have been the preferred modes of contraception.Here is a breakdown of different methods and mediums of contraception:


Male condoms:
A male condom is a thin sheath made of latex (rubber), polyurethane (plastic) or animal membrane. Worn by a man over male organ, it acts as a physical barrier to keep the sperm from entering the cervix and getting to the egg. It protects both partners from STDs. Condoms come in different sizes, colours and even flavours, and should be stored away from heat and light. Always check the expiry datebefore use.

Female condoms:
These are a relatively new entrant, with just two brands -- Velvet (Rs 100 for a pack of three) and Confidom (Rs 250 for a packof two) -- both manufactured by Hindustan Latex Ltd. It is tougher and drastically reduces risk of breakage. You should never use them with a male condom.


Intra-uterine devices (IUDs):
An IUD is a copper coil fitted in the woman's womb that doesnot allow the sperm to meet the egg. Popularly called Copper T, it is a good alternative to hormone pills. The chemicals in the device change the uterine lining to prevent implantation of eggs. It can be effective for three to 10 years, depending on the kind of device used. The body may resent the foreign body initially, causing some pains. However, a wrongly inserted IUD could cause pelvic inflammation or puncture the uterus. Maintain good hygiene and medical care if you're using one. They are cost-effective and cost as little as Rs 400 to Rs 1,000.

Oral contraceptive pills (OCPs):
They are ideal for women who want to be sexually active but want a worry-free method of birth control. When taken as directed by a doctor, they offer nearly 100 percent protection against pregnancy.Oral contraceptives, known as “The Pill”, contain two synthetic female hormones (estrogenand progesterone) which prevent pregnancy by inhibiting the monthly release of the “egg” from the ovaries. These are the same female hormones you normally produce. Oral contraceptives are almost 100% effective when taken correctly. To be absolutely safe, you shoulduse a second form of contraception the first seven days of the first cycle.Birth control pills do not completely protect a woman from getting sexually transmitted diseases.


Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs):
As the name suggests, they should be taken only in times of emergency and cannot replace OCPs. The current treatment schedule is one dose within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse, and a second dose 12 hours after the first dose. ECP should be taken as soon after unprotected intercourse as is practical.

Make an informed choice

Frequency of sex:
If frequency of sex is low, condoms are the best option. You would not want to be on OCPs if you're having sex only once in a few months.

Number of partners:
If you have multiple partners,use a method that protects against STDs. This means that an IUD, spermicides or injectables are not enough for you. You need condoms.

Mutual assent:
The choice of contraception should be discussed mutually and responsibility should be shared.

Health and family history:
Inform your gynaecologist about family medical history, especially your mother's, as there may be contra-indications with some types of contraceptives. This is vital in case there is a history of smoking, breast cancer, diabetes or heart disease, which can be aggravated by OCPs or injectables.