There are a number of different types of female contraceptive methods available and the type of contraception chosen will depend upon the particular time in a woman’s life and her specific needs. An interactive process between a woman and her doctor will assist in making the best possible choice.
Contraception is a term that covers a variety of birth control methods or techniques to prevent fertilization, and is either hormonal or non-hormonal. An example of a non-hormonal method is the barrier method, which includes the use of male or female condoms. Condoms work by preventing sperm from entering the uterus, whilst also providing protection from sexually transmitted diseases.
Hormonal contraception refers to those birth control methods that contain a progestogen or a combination of oestrogen and progestogen hormones.
The combined contraceptive pill, taken daily, is a widely accepted form of female hormonal birth control, which works by preventing the egg from leaving the ovary. The cervical mucus thickens and inhibits sperm movement, and the lining of the uterus becomes thinner, making it unsuitable for implantation.
The mini pill works in much the same way but releases small amounts of progestogen only and must be taken at the same time each day without a break to be effective.
A longer-lasting alternative to the oral contraceptive pill is the contraceptive intramuscular injection which contains progestogen only. It works by inhibiting ovulation and lasts up to three months.
The contraceptive ring is inserted into the vagina by the woman. The ring contains both progestogen and oestrogen, which are directly released into the blood vessels lining the vaginal wall. It works by preventing ovulation, and is worn for three weeks and then removed for a week. It is then replaced by a new ring.
The contraceptive implant is a small plastic rod containing progestogen only which is placed under the skin in the upper arm by a trained doctor. The progestogen is released into the bloodstream and stops the ovaries from releasing an egg each month. The implant lasts for up to three years.
The intrauterine system, or IUS, contains enough progestogen to last for up to five years. It consists of a small plastic device, placed in the uterus by a trained doctor. Progestogen is slowly released directly into the uterus, preventing sperm from entering the uterus. Cervical mucus is thickened and a fertilized egg is prevented from implanting in the uterus.
An IUD, or intrauterine device, is a small plastic and copper device inserted into the uterus by a trained doctor. It does not release any hormones, but prevents fertilization and implantation and can remain in place for up to five years.
Birth control methods can be divided into two types of contraceptive options. First, there are those methods that are short acting and used daily or on each occasion of sexual intercourse, such as the contraceptive pill or the condom respectively. Secondly, there are longer-lasting forms of birth control such as the contraceptive injection or birth control implant or the contraceptive IUD.
As different types of contraception require different actions by the user, and also differing levels of diligence, a woman’s choice of contraceptive method may depend upon ease of use. The condom, for example, must be used at every act of intercourse.
The contraceptive pill requires some action every day and the birth control injection requires a twelve weekly action.
Choosing the best method of birth control is an important decision. With so many different types of contraception for women available, trying to select the best and most suitable contraceptive method can be confusing. A woman’s doctor can assist her to sift through the often complex information around the different forms of female contraceptives and the possible side effects.
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