Several methods can be used to prevent pregnancy, including hormonal methods, barrier methods, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and surgical methods. One effective method is the hormonal contraceptive pill, which works by preventing ovulation (the release of an egg) and thickening cervical mucus, which can also help prevent sperm from reaching the egg.
Here’s a more detailed look at some common methods:
1. Hormonal Contraception:
Hormonal Contraceptive Pills:
These pills contain synthetic hormones that prevent the release of eggs from the ovaries and thicken cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to travel to the egg.
Hormonal Contraceptive Implant:
A small rod is inserted under the skin, releasing hormones to prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus.
Hormonal Contraceptive Injection:
A shot of hormones is given regularly to prevent ovulation.
Hormonal Contraceptive Patch or Vaginal Ring:
These methods release hormones that prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus.
Hormonal Intrauterine Device (IUD):
An IUD is inserted into the uterus and releases hormones, preventing ovulation and thickening cervical mucus.
2. Barrier Methods:
Condoms:
These create a physical barrier between the penis and vagina, preventing sperm from entering the uterus.
Diaphragm or Cervical Cap:
These are inserted into the vagina to cover the cervix and prevent sperm from reaching the uterus.
Sponge:
A sponge with spermicide is inserted into the vagina to create a barrier and kill sperm.
3. Intrauterine Devices (IUDs):
IUDs: These devices are inserted into the uterus and can be hormonal or copper-based.
Hormonal IUDs: release hormones to prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus.
Copper IUDs: work by making the uterus an inhospitable environment for sperm and preventing fertilization.
4. Surgical Methods:
Vasectomy (Male Sterilization):
This procedure involves cutting and tying the vas deferens to prevent sperm from being released in semen.
Tubal Ligation (Female Sterilization):
This procedure involves blocking or tying the fallopian tubes to prevent eggs from traveling to the uterus.
Elaboration on Hormonal Contraceptive Pills:
Hormonal contraceptive pills are a common and effective way to prevent pregnancy. They work by preventing ovulation, which is the release of an egg from the ovary. The pills also thicken cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to reach the egg. most hormonal contraception contains two different hormones (estrogen and progestin).
Effectiveness of Hormonal Pills:
The effectiveness of hormonal pills can vary depending on how they are taken. If taken correctly, they can be highly effective, with a failure rate of less than 1%. However, if pills are missed or taken inconsistently, the effectiveness can decrease.
The NHS notes that the typical use effectiveness of the combined pill is 91%, while the perfect use effectiveness is over 99%.
Side Effects:
Hormonal pills can have some side effects, such as nausea, headaches, mood changes, and changes in menstrual bleeding. It’s important to discuss potential side effects with a healthcare provider before starting hormonal contraception.