There are a range of advanced birth control methods available in the market today to help women plan their families.

From hormonal implants to intrauterine devices (IUDs) and emergency contraception, these options enable women to take control of their reproductive health. However, it is important to note that not all methods work for everyone, and it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to find the best option based on individual needs and preferences.

Hormonal Implants

One of the most popular and effective long-acting birth control methods is a hormonal implant. This is a small plastic rod that is inserted under the skin in the arm or hip and releases a low dose of hormones to prevent pregnancy for up to three years.

They work by thickening cervical mucus, preventing ovulation, and thinning the uterus lining. Hormonal implants are a highly effective form of birth control, with less than 1% of women becoming pregnant during the first year of use. However, they may cause irregular periods, mood swings, or nausea in some women.

Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)

An IUD is a small T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus by a healthcare professional. IUDs can be made of copper or plastic and can last for up to 10 years, depending on the type.

They work by preventing fertilization and by making it difficult for a fertilized egg to implant in the uterus. IUDs are a long-acting, highly effective form of birth control, with less than 1% of women becoming pregnant during the first year of use. However, they may cause cramping, heavier periods, or other side effects in some women.

Birth Control Pills

Birth control pills contain hormones that prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus to make it difficult for sperm to reach the egg. They are a popular, effective, and easy-to-use form of birth control for many women.

There are different types of birth control pills available, including combination pills that contain both estrogen and progestin, and progestin-only pills. Combination pills are more effective at preventing pregnancy than progestin-only pills. However, birth control pills may cause side effects such as nausea, headaches, or mood swings in some women.

Contraceptive Injection

A contraceptive injection is a shot that is given by a healthcare professional every 12 to 14 weeks to prevent pregnancy.

It consist of a synthetic version of progesterone that prevents ovulation and thickens cervical mucus to make it difficult for sperm to reach the egg. Contraceptive injections are a highly effective form of birth control, with less than 1% of women becoming pregnant during the first year of use. However, they may cause side effects such as weight gain, mood swings, or irregular periods.

Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception, also known as the morning-after pill, is a method of birth control that can be used after unprotected sex or if another method of birth control fails.

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It works by preventing ovulation or by making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg. There are different types of emergency contraception available, including the copper intrauterine device (IUD), and pills containing either estrogen and progestin or progestin-only.

Emergency contraception is not intended to be used as a primary form of birth control and should be used sparingly.

Barrier Methods

Barrier methods of birth control work by physically blocking sperm from reaching the egg. They include condoms (male and female) and diaphragms. Barrier methods are a low-cost and widely available form of birth control.

However, they are less effective than other methods and require consistent and correct use to be effective. Condoms also offer protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Fertility Awareness-Based Methods

Fertility awareness-based methods are natural methods of birth control that involve tracking ovulation and avoiding sex during the fertile period.

These methods can include tracking basal body temperature, monitoring cervical mucus, and using ovulation prediction kits. Fertility awareness-based methods are a hormone-free and low-cost form of birth control. However, they can be less effective than other methods and require high levels of consistency and commitment to accurately track fertility cycles.

Sterilization

Sterilization is a permanent form of birth control that involves either male or female sterilization. Female sterilization, or tubal ligation, involves cutting or blocking the fallopian tubes to prevent eggs from being fertilized.

Male sterilization, or a vasectomy, involves cutting or blocking the tubes that carry sperm. Sterilization is a highly effective form of birth control and is considered a permanent decision.

Conclusion

There is a range of advanced birth control methods available in the market today to help women plan their families.

From hormonal implants to intrauterine devices (IUDs) and emergency contraception, these options enable women to take control of their reproductive health. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to find the best option based on individual needs and preferences. While no method is 100% effective, choosing the best method for you can reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy.