Contraception is a confusing subject, and many people want to know what they’re getting themselves into before they start. If you’re looking for more information on which contraception method is right for you-or if you just want to make sure you’re getting what you think you’re getting-these frequently asked questions should help you out.
How do contraceptives work?
Contraceptives work to prevent pregnancy by either physically blocking sperm, disabling sperm before they reach the uterus, or suppressing ovulation. Some methods are better than others, but some methods can be combined with others to reduce the chance of pregnancy further. It’s the responsibility of both men and women to use contraceptives, and it’s important to decide together on what to use to ensure your chosen methods are used properly.
Beyond its primary role in preventing unintended pregnancies, contraception also plays a pivotal role in safeguarding against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). By utilizing barrier methods like condoms or dental dams, individuals not only protect themselves from pregnancy but also significantly reduce the risk of contracting or transmitting infections such as HIV, gonorrhea, or chlamydia.
However, for a comprehensive approach to sexual health, considering additional measures is prudent. Incorporating probiotics for women into one’s routine can bolster the body’s natural defenses against STDs by promoting a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria in the genital tract, thus enhancing the overall immune response.
Is contraception permanent?
You may not want to get pregnant right now, but you may want children at some point in the future, so you may be wondering whether contraception is permanent. Most contraception methods are temporary or reversible, but two methods are permanent. The first is female sterilization, whilst the second is male sterilization.
Female sterilization involves sealing or blocking the fallopian tubes, preventing eggs from reaching the uterus. Surgery is performed to do this, and the procedure is not easily reversible. Meanwhile, male sterilization involves cutting or sealing the vas deferens, preventing sperm from leaving the testicles. Again, surgery is performed to do this, and it is not easily reversible.
What is the best contraceptive method?
No one method works better than any other method. It comes down to individual preference, need, and correct usage. Condoms, for example, are considered 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. However, they must be used perfectly to maintain 99% effectiveness. If you don’t use a condom perfectly, or you don’t enjoy the feeling of a condom, you may not consider it to be the best method.
Meanwhile, the pill is over 99% effective, so it could be considered better than condoms in this sense. They also reduce or prevent periods, which could be considered a benefit. However, some women experience side effects such as nausea, mood swings, hot flashes, and headaches, so it may not be the best method for you.
It’s generally agreed, however, that the pull-out method is the worst contraceptive method. Some sexual health professionals argue it isn’t a form of contraception at all due to there being no physical barrier to sperm or hormonal suppression of ovulation. Used perfectly, the method is still only around 78% effective, but it’s often not performed correctly, significantly reducing the effectiveness. It’s worth remembering that even pre-ejaculate can contain live sperm, which is why this method is so unreliable.
Does the pill contribute to weight gain?
The birth control pill has various side effects, but according to the NHS, weight gain is not one of them. You may notice some small changes to your body when first taking the pill, caused by the changes in your hormones, but this should settle down as your body becomes used to the difference. A recent study shows that this weight gain may be related to hormonal imbalances, not birth control use. The study, a collaboration between the Mayo Clinic and Indiana University, examined more than 350 women and concluded that birth control use could improve their hormone levels. For those concerned about hormonal imbalances and their impact on weight, it’s worth exploring options such as hormone therapy in Tinley Park, IL, and other places, which can provide valuable insights and solutions for managing hormonal health.
Is there a chance that contraceptives can cause cancer?
Multiple studies have been carried out on this, with varying results. Cancer Research, for example, has found that taking the pill does slightly increase the chances of breast and cervical cancer, but ten years after stopping the pill, a person’s risk decreases to the point that it would be if they had never taken it. Meanwhile, they have found that the pill reduces the chance of developing ovarian and endometrial cancer, and this reduced risk is permanent even after stopping the pill. Ultimately, cancer can develop in anyone, and your genetics and lifestyle are a bigger factor in whether you’ll develop it or not.
Consult with an OB-GYN for contraception-related queries.
When it comes to contraception, consulting with the best obgyn houston or a medical professional of comparable caliber in your location could be a smart choice for personalized guidance and support.
During your consultation, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the full range of contraceptive options available, from hormonal methods like birth control pills, patches, and injections to long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) such as intrauterine devices (IUDs) and contraceptive implants. Moreover, an OB-GYN near you can offer personalized recommendations based on your medical history, any underlying health conditions, and other relevant factors. Additionally, consulting with these healthcare experts can allow for ongoing support and follow-up care.
Overall, scheduling an appointment with an OB-GYN is an essential step in making informed decisions about contraception. With expert guidance and personalized care, you can confidently choose the contraceptive method that best fits your needs and lifestyle, helping you take control of your reproductive health and family planning journey.
