Contraceptives: 9 modern types

World Contraception Day is celebrated on September 26. The event encourages people to be responsible in matters of their own health and family planning.

It is dedicated to informing the population about existing methods of protection. On this day, gaps are filled in the issues of sex education, so that pregnancy is always desirable and timely.

The main types of contraceptives

All contraceptives can be divided into hormonal and non-hormonal. The first contain female sex hormones and affect the process of egg maturation, its readiness for fertilization. Hormones are usually taken in the form of oral medications, but can also be injected into the body in the form of injections, implants or vaginal remedies.

Non-hormonal contraceptives do not affect the ovulation cycle – they do not allow the process of fertilization itself. Such means either create a barrier between male and female sex cells (barrier methods), or change the spermatozoa themselves, making them unable to fertilize.

Popular types of contraceptives

To date, there are many means for protection. Let’s look at some of them.

Condoms. The simplest and most affordable method of barrier contraception. It is important to note that they protect not only from unwanted pregnancy, but also from sexually transmitted diseases. Condoms can be both male and female, but the female version is not so popular.

Vaginal diaphragms, cervical caps, sponges – female barrier contraceptives. They do not affect the hormonal background, they are suitable for nursing women. The disadvantage is the relatively low efficiency.

Spermicides. They are available in the form of vaginal creams, candles, tablets, aerosols. The principle of action is the destruction of spermatozoa when they enter the female body. Spermicides are injected into the vagina before sexual intercourse.

Intrauterine devices (IUDs). The spiral is inserted by the doctor into the uterine cavity. The method is recommended for women who have already given birth to a child. The IUD physically prevents the penetration of sperm into the uterus, preventing fertilization. There are hormonal, inert, copper-containing spirals.

Vaginal rings. A flexible plastic ring that, after being inserted into the vagina, releases hormones that prevent the onset of pregnancy. A woman can install the ring herself, but the possibility and timing of using the ring should be determined by a doctor.

Birth control pills. (the most popular of Yasmin birth control pills) Hormonal drugs intended for continuous use according to the scheme prescribed by a doctor. They delay the onset of ovulation, which is necessary for fertilization.

Contraceptive injections. This option is similar in effect to taking pills, but does not require daily monitoring. A dose of the hormone is injected into a woman’s body with an intramuscular injection. The dosage and injection scheme is prescribed by a doctor.

Hormonal implants. It can be a thin stick or a capsule that is installed under the skin on the hand for a long time and releases a hormonal drug that prevents ovulation and thickens the cervical mucus.

Postcoital hormonal drugs. Emergency contraception is used after unplanned sexual intercourse. The method involves a single injection of a high dose of hormones into the body, and therefore is not suitable for frequent use.

Before choosing the means of contraception, it is necessary to consult with your doctor. All hormonal contraceptives have contraindications, so their use can be prescribed only after passing an examination and tests. Be healthy!