The Female Condom

Female Condom

 Failure Rate 210 per 1000 women per year

 What is it?

The female condom is a barrier method of contraception that is used at the time of intercourse.  It can also provide protection against some sexually transmitted infections (STI).  It is a soft, disposable, polyurethane sheath and is available in all drugstores without a prescription. 

 How does it work?

It is placed in the vagina before having sex.  It lines the vagina completely, preventing direct contact between the penis and vagina and also prevents the exchange of bodily fluids.  Sperm is trapped in the condom, which is thrown away after use.  They are not reusable. 

 Advantages?

Available widely without a prescription and It protects against some pregnancy and some STIs

Disadvantages?

It requires a proper insertion technique, some women find this difficult.  The flexible inner ring may cause some discomfort for some.  It is more expensive than the male condom and is not available in all stores.  It makes noise during sex and may slip or break during sex, also, some women find it to be messy. 

Injectable Contraceptive

Injectable Contraceptive 

Failure Rate: 160 – 320 per 1000 women per year

 What is it?

This injectable contraceptive contains only progesterone and is administered only four times a year. 

 How does it work?

The hormone progesterone prevents ovulation, cervical mucus is thickened making it difficult for sperm to penetrate and the lining on the uterus is thinned making implantation difficult.

 Advantages?

One of the most effective reversible birth control methods available.  With continued use, menstrual cycles cease in over half of users after the first year and two-thirds of users after two years of use.  No daily routine is required; one injection lasts for three months.  Effective immediately when given during the fist 5 days of a normal menstrual period. 

 Disadvantages?

Initally, irregular bleeding is the most common side effect.  Calcium supplementations are advised.  Studies show a decrease in bone mineral density, however, this can be reversed once you stop taking it.  It takes an average of nine months after the last injection for the ovaries to start releasing eggs again.  Does NOT protect against STIs.  The lack of a monthly period may be bothersome for some women. 

The Vaginal Ring

Vaginal Ring

Failure Rate:  80 per 1000 women per year

 The vaginal ring is a flexible ring that is inserted into the vagina for 3 weeks and is removed for 1 week. 

 What is it?

It is a flexible and nearly transparent ring that measures about 2 inches across.  It releases a continuous dose of hormones. 

How does it work?

It is very similar to the birth control pill as it prevents ovulation, thickens cervical mucus making it difficult for sperm to penetrate and thins the uterus’ lining. 

 Advantages.

Again, it is very similar to the pill in that it regulates periods, however, it is a once-a-month regime, so no daily reminders necessary.  It is easily reversible and does not interfere with sex. 

Disadvantages.

The vaginal ring DOES NOT protect against STIs so a back-up is necessary.  Also, it may cause some side effects such as bloating, headaches, nausea and/or spotting, or the ring could be expelled, however, this is uncommon. 

The Birth Control Pill

The Birth Control Pill

 

The Birth Control Pill

Failure Rate: 80 per 1000 women per year

Birth Control.  If you’re not on it, you’ve heard a lot about it.  Good stories, weird stories and I’m sure, some horror stories.  Going on the birth control pill is a major decision and you should think it through before going on it.  If you are going on the pill for the first time, you are probably extremely overwhelmed by the sheer amount of brands.  Alesse, Tri-Cyclen, Diane 35 and Marvellon, are just of the many out there.  And while I’m sure you know that every pill and every person is different, there are some details about each brand that can only be learned from taking it or talking with people who’ve take it.  Before you decide to go on the birth control pill there are some things you should know.

How it works

The birth control pill comes in 21 or 28 day packs, which would be one pill per every day of your cycle.  Most birth control pills are combination pills, meaning they combine estrogen and progesterone which work to prevent ovulation.  Ovualtion is the process in which the egg is released during the monthly cycle.  Therefore, if a woman does not ovulate, there is no egg to be fertilized and she can not get pregnant.  The pill also works by thickening the mucus in the cervix which makes it harder for sperm to enter and also by thinning the lining of the uteran wall so that if an egg does become fertilized, it will be unable to stick the wall of the uterus and develop.  Following the 21 days where you take the pill to prevent ovulation, there is a seven day period where you take a placebo, or no pill at all.  In those seven, you will get your period.  

When will the Pill NOT work?

Remember, the pill takes approximately two months in order to become effective, so in those two months, it would be well advised to use a back-up from of contraception.  Also, if you miss taking a pill entirely or even by four hours, this can reduce its effectiveness.  The birth control pill does not work if you are on antibiotics, such as penicillin or amoxicilan, or if you have vomited or had diarrhea recently.  Always remember to use a back-up during these times!

What happens if I miss a pill?

If you miss a pill, don’t worry, take two the next day and continue to take the pills like you normally would.  But until you have taken the pill for SEVEN consecutive days, you must use a back-up method.  If you’ve missed two or more pills in a row and have had sex without a protection then consult your doctor about an emergency contraceptive or “the morning after pill.”

Some Advantages

 There are several reasons why girls decide to go on the birth control pill.  Reason number one, the obvious, the prevention of pregnancy and if taken properly, everyday at the same time, can be 99% effective.  The second most common reason it is taken is to treat problem skin and acne.  The pill can be very effective in clearing up skin problems, though with varying results, and for some with no results at all.  The most commonly prescribed pill for girls who suffer from acne is Ortho Tri-Cyclen.  In clinical trials it has been proven to be the most effective.  

Many women go on the pill because it is excellent and regulating your periods.  If your periods do not follow a schedule, the pill can and will correct that.  In some women, their period is lighter and the pain form menstrual cramps can be reduced.  

Some Disadvantages.

The pill DOES NOT protect against Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) or Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs).  Whether you are in a monogamous relationship or not, it is always important to use an additional form of contraception, like a condom. It is also recommended that women with a history of heart disease or any heart problems should not take the pill and in addition it is strongly advised to NOT SMOKE while on the pill.  And the most common disadvantage to taking the pill is probably remembering to take it!  It can be a pain, but if you have a cell phone, set an alarm, or perhaps coincide taking the pill with a common daily practice, like brushing your teeth.

Some Side Effects.

One of the most common side effects that women seem to be concerned with is, will the pill make you gain weight?  There have been many studies into weight gain associated with the pill and those studies have concluded that it will not necessarily happen.  However, some studies have shown that the pill can increase your appetite.  Doctors and health care professionals believe that because the birth control pill tricks your mind into thinking you’re pregnant, you may instinctively feel the need to eat for two.  Don’t do this! Remember, this is just a trick!  If there is weight gain it usually occurs in the first two months and will mostly likely stop after that.  And while your breast and hips will most likely increase in size, the rest of you does not have to!  Some other common side effects from the pill are nausea, bloating breast tenderness and decreased libido.  However, remember that each woman is different and side effects vary from person to person.