Methods Of Birth Control

The epidemic of unplanned pregnancies has made the topic of birth control a necessity. There are several methods of birth control currently available. Some work better than others. It is important to determine which method is best for you based on your specific needs. Also, it is important to keep in mind that most birth control methods do not protect you from HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.

What different types of birth control are available?

According to the National Women's Health Information Center, the statistics for various birth control methods are as follows:

- The Male Condom – This barrier method is the most common form of birth control. It keeps the male sperm from reaching the female egg. Latex and polyurethane condoms are proven to help protect against STDs. They are 84 to 98 percent effective in preventing pregnancy.
- Oral Contraceptives – The pill contains estrogen and progestin hormones, and is taken daily to block the release of eggs from the ovaries. It is 95 to 99.9 percent effective and does not protect against STDs.
- The Female Condom – Made of polyurethane, this barrier method is worn by the woman and keeps sperm from getting inside her body. It may protect against STDs, including HIV, and can be inserted up to 24 hours before sexual intercourse. Female condoms are 79 to 95 percent effective.
- Depo-Provera – This method consists of a shot of progestin in the buttocks or arm every three months for women. It is 97 percent effective in preventing pregnancy and does not protect against STDs.
- Diaphragm – This barrier method worn by the woman causes the cervix to be blocked from sperm. They come in different sizes and must be fitted for you specifically. The diaphragm is 84 to 94 percent effective.
- Contraceptive Sponge – This disk-shaped device is made out of polyurethane foam and contains spermicide. It is 84 to 91 percent effective in preventing pregnancy in women who have not had a child and 68 to 80 percent in those who have had a child. It does not protect against STDs.
- The Patch – This is worn by the woman and releases estrogen and progestin into her bloodstream. It is 98 to 99 percent effective and does not protect against HIV or STDs.
- The NuvaRing – Worn inside the woman, this ring releases progestin and estrogen into her body. It is 98 to 99 percent effective and does not protect against STDs.
- IUD – Intrauterine Device – Shaped in the form of a T and inserted by a doctor, this is implanted in the uterus and is 99 percent effective in preventing pregnancy. The IUD does not protect against STDs.
- Surgical Sterilization – Tubal Ligation or Vasectomy – These procedures are permanent and, in most cases, irreversible. Tubal ligation stops eggs from traveling to the uterus. A vasectomy stops sperm flow from getting to the male ejaculate. This method of birth control is 99.9 percent effective. It does not protect against STDs.
- Emergency Contraception – This is not a regular method of birth control and should only be used in emergencies when unprotected sex has occurred. It consists of taking two doses of hormonal pills 12 hours apart and must be taken within three days after unprotected sex. This is 75 to 89 percent effective in preventing pregnancy and does not protect against STDs.

There are several types of birth control available to both men and women. It is necessary to remember that most types do not protect against STDs like HIV. It is important to determine which birth control method is best for you and your partner based on your comfort level, age, specific needs and overall health.