5 Effective Forms of Contraception
To make sure that the method that you are going for is fool-proof, there are multiple points that you need to consider before narrowing down on a method of contraception. So, keeping in mind their ability to prevent unwanted pregnancies, aside from other factors, given below are several of the most effective forms of contraception you can look into.
- Oral contraceptives
Contraceptive pills are the most common and one of the most effective forms of contraception that people use. The pills have hormones that can control the menstrual cycle and thus, prevent unwanted pregnancy. There are various types of oral contraceptives. While some contain estrogen and progesterone, others might only contain progesterone. The pills are prescribed to be taken daily at the same time to be effective. When the pills are used in the way they are prescribed, they can be 99.7% effective in preventing unwanted pregnancies. - A progestin implant
The implant is another effective form of contraception. It is the size of a matchstick that it works by releasing progestin, and is placed under the skin of the inner arm. Due to the release of the hormone, the cervical mucus thickens, and in turn, it makes it difficult for the sperm to meet an egg. This happens when an egg is released. With the progestin implant, the release of eggs from the ovaries can also be stopped. - Vaginal ring
The vaginal ring also uses hormones to prevent unwanted pregnancy. It is a flexible and small ring that is put inside the vagina. It stays there for 21 days before getting replaced with a new ring. Vaginal rings contain estrogen and progesterone hormones, which are released regularly. The hormones are absorbed into the bloodstream and prevent pregnancy. When used properly, a vaginal ring can be as effective as an oral contraceptive method. - Contraceptive patch
This form of contraception also uses hormones to prevent pregnancies. It is a patch that is applied to the skin and which needs to be changed every week. Just like the vaginal ring, the patch also contains estrogen and progesterone, which is gradually released into the body to prevent pregnancies. The patch is replaced on the same day every week for three weeks. There is no patch used in the fourth week to allow for mensuration. This method also has the same effectiveness as the contraceptive pill. - Intrauterine device or IUD
An IUD is a device that is placed in the uterus to prevent pregnancy. Depending on the model that you pick, the device can protect one up to 5 years, and is a highly effective method of contraception. Sitting on the uterus wall, the device releases progesterone hormone in the body of the female. This leads to the thinning of the uterus wall and thickening of the mucus. It is thus difficult for the sperm to enter the uterus, and an unwanted pregnancy is prevented. This method is 99.8% effective.