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Types of Contraception - Advantages and Disadvantages Choosing a method of birth control is a personal decision that should take into account your needs, budget and habits. It is important to discuss your options with a trusted doctor, but take a look at this list of advantages and disadvantages of common birth control methods before you make your choice. Hormonal contraceptives carry advantages and disadvantages. These methods are generally very effective, but you may experience side effects like headaches, nausea, mood swings and weight gain as your body adjusts to the extra dosage of hormones. Many women do prefer hormonal methods of contraception because they may lead to shorter periods, less cramps and less symptoms of PMS. Sometimes just called "the pill," oral contraceptives like combination pills use the hormones estrogen and progestin to prevent ovulation and thickening the cervical mucus to stop sperm from joining with an egg. Progestin-only pills are a good option for women over the age of 35 or those with certain medical conditions. The pill is 99% effective if taken exactly as directed. That means taking the pill at the same time every day and never missing doses. The pill is also widely available and can be affordable. Emergency contraceptive is a high dose of birth control hormones that can be taken after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy as well. The Nuva Ring is a small, flexible plastic ring that is inserted in the vagina for three weeks at a time and uses the same hormones as birth control pills to prevent pregnancy. The ring is a good option for those that cannot take a pill at the same time each day. You and your partner should not be able to feel the ring once it is inserted. The birth control patch is applied to the skin using adhesive for three months out of the month. The patch uses the same hormones as the ring and the pill. Those that have trouble remembering to take a pill each day may be more comfortable with the patch, but one must ensure that the patch is properly adhered to the skin at all times to ensure pregnancy prevention. The patch may also be less effective for overweight women. A hormonal IUD, or intra-uterine device, is a small "T-shaped" device that is placed in the uterus by a medical professional and may use hormones to prevent pregnancy. Non-hormonal copper IUDs act as a natural spermicide. IUDs are long-lasting and can prevent pregnancy for up to 12 years. IUDs are a great option for women that don't want to worry about their birth control each day or month. The birth control shot uses progestin to prevent pregnancy and is administered every 12 weeks by a doctor or nurse. This is a great option for women that cannot remember to take a pill each day. Using a spermicide, condom, diaphragm or sponge method may work for you as well. These methods are often convenient and inexpensive, but are less effective than hormonal methods of birth control. |
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