Birth control is a method for both men and women to prevent pregnancy and plan the timing of it. Hormonal, non-hormonal, and over-the-counter (OTC) birth control methods are just a few of the options available. When it comes to picking a method of birth control, the effectiveness of the contraception you use is a major consideration.
In today’s world, we have a wide variety of safe and effective birth control options. It is impossible to generalize about what influences the efficacy of various forms of birth control. Consistent and correct use of your birth control method will increase its efficacy, just like with any other contraceptive. In other words, if you want high levels of birth control efficacy, you need to use it consistently and correctly.
Having an understanding of failure rates can help you compare birth control effectiveness. Birth control comparison can get a little muddled at this point. Contrary to popular belief, the success rate of birth control is higher than the rate of failure. For the sake of argument, let us say you are evaluating the efficacy of the birth control pill versus that of Depo Provera. Depo Provera has a 6-percent failure rate, while the pill is 8-percent effective.
However, failure rates are the number of pregnancies that occur when 100 women use that birth control method for a year. Depo Provera prevents pregnancies by 94% compared to the pill’s 82%. As a result, the birth control success rate is equal to the failure rate minus 100.
In this article, you will learn the pros and cons comparison of different birth control methods.
Types Of Birth Control
Male And Female Condoms
A male condom is placed on the penis of a male during sex. Polyurethane condoms are an option for those who are allergic to latex.
The receptive partner wears a female condom, a tube-shaped barrier method, during vaginal or anal intercourse. They are better for people with latex allergies than male condoms because they are typically made of polyurethane or nitrile rather than the natural rubber latex. Inside the vagina or anus, the female condom’s closed-end is positioned, while the open end is located on the outside. Flexible rings on the ends of the female condom assist in guiding the insertion of the condom. During a sexual act, only one condom (male or female) should be used.
Only water-based lubricants, such as K-Y® Jelly, should be used with latex condoms (the majority of male condoms). The latex in a condom will degrade if it is exposed to an oil-based lubricant, such as Vaseline. Polyurethane is used in the manufacture of female condoms, making them compatible with both water and oil-based lubricants.
Semen is collected during ejaculation, and condoms prevent sperm from entering the uterus by acting as a barrier. Numerous sexually transmitted diseases can be prevented by using condoms. When used in combination with spermicide or withdrawal, condoms have stronger effectiveness.
Pros
- Protects against HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
- No negative effects.
- Non-hormonal
- Ejaculation may be alleviated by this treatment
- With other birth control methods, it is possible to increase its efficacy
- Breastfeeding mothers can use this product.
Cons
- The contraceptive can break or slip off, requiring immediate contraception.
- Inhibits spontaneity
- May help both partners feel more comfortable.
- Female condoms have the potential to make sexual contact more obnoxious.
Diaphragm
The diaphragm is a silicone cup in the shape of a dome with a flexible rim. Before intercourse, you inject spermicide into the diaphragm and insert it into the vagina, covering the cervix. It must be kept within the vagina for six hours the following intercourse and may be kept for up to 24 hours.
Today’s most popular style, Caya, is one-size-fits-all. It requires a prescription, but unlike previous generations of diaphragms, it does not require professional fitting. However, it may be beneficial if your provider demonstrates how to properly place it.
The diaphragm protects the cervix from sperm entry into the uterus. Sperm are immobilized when spermicide is used in conjunction with the diaphragm.
Pros
- Generally, neither the user nor their partner feels it.
- Can be inserted up to four hours earlier to intercourse
- Contains no hormones
- Can be combined with other methods of birth control, such as condoms, to increase the effectiveness
- Suitable for use while breastfeeding
- Purchase is relatively inexpensive, and when properly cared for, it can last up to two years.
Cons
- It can increase the chances of urinary tract infection.
- May be pushed out of position during sexual activity, posing a risk of pregnancy.
- Silicone or spermicide may irritate the vaginal area.
- Nonoxynol-9, the most frequently used spermicide in diaphragms, has been linked to an increased risk of Hiv infections when used regularly by individuals at high risk of HIV transmission.
- Not effective against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections.
Sponge
A foam sponge with spermicide is about two inches in diameter and soft. Put it into the vagina, moistening it with water before placing it over the cervix. It must be kept in the vagina for at least six hours and up to thirty hours following intercourse. Having a nylon band on one end makes it easier to remove. The sponge, unlike the diaphragm and cervical cap, is thrown away after one use.
You can define sponge as a barrier that prevents sperm from entering the uterus, just like other methods. Sperm are rendered inert by the spermicide contained within the sponge.
Pros
- Use up to 24 hours before a sexual encounter by inserting it into the vagina
- Usually not felt by users or their partners
- Has no hormones in it.
- Increased effectiveness can be achieved by combining it with other forms of birth control (such as condoms).
- Breastfeeding mothers can use this product.
Cons
- Water and spermicide, according to some users, can make sex messy.
- Using lubricant may help alleviate the symptoms of vaginal dryness.
- Inserting may take some practice.
- Doesn’t work as well after childbirth
- Vaginal irritation is a possibility.
- Using nonoxynol-9, the most common spermicide with the cervical cap increases the risk of HIV transmission.
- HIV and other STIs are not shielded from exposure.
Vaginal Ring
The ring contains progestin and estrogen, which are the same hormones found in birth control pills and the patch. These hormones inhibit ovulation and thicken cervical mucus, forming a barrier to sperm entering the uterus. The ring is made of a flexible ring that is placed in the vagina and left in place for three consecutive weeks.
Pros
- Periods may become more manageable and cramping may be alleviated.
- Low maintenance—no daily pill required
- Certain users report fewer adverse effects than they did with the Pill.
- Possibility of alleviating hormonal acne
- Fertility returns quickly after cessation of use.
Cons
- Insertion is required every three weeks.
- May cause an increase in vaginal discharge or irritation in the vaginal area.
- Spotting between periods, breast tenderness, and nausea are all possible side effects.
- Estrogen is contraindicated if you have a history of cardiovascular disease or blood clots, hypertension, certaintypes of migraine, or if you smoke.
- Not advised during the first four weeks following delivery.
- Not effective against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections.
Conclusion
Many factors should be taken into consideration when deciding to use birth control. Some of these considerations are your general well-being, the frequency and variety of your sexual encounters, and whether or not you intend to start a family shortly. Ordering birth control online is simple and convenient.
