If you don't want to get pregnant, don't have intercourse! J/K, birth control is almost always thought of as a pill that controls pregnancies, when in fact there are many forms of birth control that can offer a woman more than that. Condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps, spermacides, rings, patches and pills are also forms of birth control many people can experiment with.
The most common form of BC are pills. There are different types of them but most women choose the one that consists of a synthetic estrogen and synthetic progestin and is taken daily for three weeks, skipping the week of menstruation. There is also what is called the Morning After Pill, which contains a high dosage of progestin. If taken within 72 hours of intercourse the drug transfers with ovulation. If ovulation has already occurred the drug will eventually block or stop implantation from happening.
Either partner can be sterilized by simple medical procedures such as vasectomy, tubal ligation or QS (Quinacrine Sterilization). Sterilization procedures can be reversed in most cases. Spermacides are chemicals such as nonoxynol 9 that inactivate sperm. They're inserted into the vagina prior to intercourse.
Cervical caps are fitted over the cervix and can be removed if desired or left in place until menstruation occurs. Skin patches can be applied and left on skin for up to one week. They are designed to release hormones through the skin to divert pregnancy from happening. Vaginal rings are small plastic rings that are inserted into the vagina. They release estrogen and progestin that lasts for 3 weeks. Other vaginal rings that only contain progestin block the menstrual cycle for up to 3 months. Implanon is a tiny flexible rod that releases progestin and is inserted under the skin that prevents pregnancy for 3 years.
Condoms are highly effective in preventing pregnancy and also protect against most STD's. Everyone should know where they go and how they get there, and if you don't know how to use this basic birth control method then maybe you shouldn't be having sex. Diaphragms are a rubber dome placed at the upper end of the vagina and may be used along with spermicidal chemicals. Always talk with your doctor to make sure steps you take with controlling birth doesn't interfere with each other.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Looking For an Excellent Birth Control Method?
Birth control is very important in the modern society. This is because more and more people are choosing to take charge of their lives and determine the number of children they wish to have if at all. Birth control has helped many people and couples in society bring up healthy families reducing the load of having too many children who would otherwise be neglected.
However, choosing a birth control method can prove to be a very daunting task. Every person wants to choose a method that will be suitable for them. For this reason, it is vital for you to know what to consider when you are choosing a method of birth control. The following factors should be considered and when you have evaluated different outcomes and considered side factors, you will be in a position to make a good decision that you will not regret.
• Health risks As you well know, there are many birth control methods that might do you more harm than good; especially if you have a medical condition. For example, hormonal birth control methods like the combined estrogen and progestin is not recommended for women who are over the age of 35. Habits like smoking will further compromise the effect of certain methods with regard to birth control. Women who smoke should not use the combined hormonal methods due to health risks. Also, women who have a history of diabetes, high blood pressure, blood clots and even migraines should seek medical help when it comes to choosing the right method.
• Your return to fertility is also a very important factor to consider. This is because there are methods of birth control which will take away fertility for a longer time than you anticipated. Such methods include a shot of Depo-Provera. This progestin-only method has been reported to cause a lot of heartache to women who may end up loosing their fertility altogether. It is vital for you to consider a method that will enable you conceive at the time you wish to conceive.
• Effectiveness is the other great factor to consider. Every individual or couple wants to use a method that will guarantee good results. It is not always possible to have full guarantees with various birth control methods but, there are those that are more effective than others. Hormonal implants and injections top the list when it comes to effectiveness. Birth control pills, patches, rings and others follow. Methods like use of condoms, spermicides and diaphragms are moderately effective compared to the other methods. Your choice should be effective when it comes to preventing pregnancy.
• Protection from sexually transmitted diseases is also very important. It might even be more important than the risk of getting pregnant because your life is at stake. There are effective methods of birth control that will not do you justice when it comes to protecting you from diseases transmitted sexually. The use of condoms is the leading method when it comes to this form of protection. Therefore, it is wise to use a combination of various methods to protect yourself effectively from pregnancy and from contracting sexually transmitted diseases.
• Permanence is another key point to consider. You want a method that will serve you in a duration that is most suitable. For those who do not want any children or do not want more children, a permanent method like female tubal ligation or male vasectomy will be just right. However, if you do not want to do away with your fertility, it is advisable to stick to the more temporary methods of birth control.
• Finally, it is vital to consider other benefits that a birth control method can bring. For example, there are hormonal methods that have been seen to be effective against acne. Others have been seen to reduce menstrual cramping and pain. Let your health care provider guide you into making the best decisions with this regard.
Keep in mind that you want the methods to work for you. If you have a method that is doing the opposite, it is time to re-evaluate and consider the above factors. Chances are that there will be a method or methods that will work great to help you avoid unwanted pregnancy as well as sexually transmitted diseases.
However, choosing a birth control method can prove to be a very daunting task. Every person wants to choose a method that will be suitable for them. For this reason, it is vital for you to know what to consider when you are choosing a method of birth control. The following factors should be considered and when you have evaluated different outcomes and considered side factors, you will be in a position to make a good decision that you will not regret.
• Health risks As you well know, there are many birth control methods that might do you more harm than good; especially if you have a medical condition. For example, hormonal birth control methods like the combined estrogen and progestin is not recommended for women who are over the age of 35. Habits like smoking will further compromise the effect of certain methods with regard to birth control. Women who smoke should not use the combined hormonal methods due to health risks. Also, women who have a history of diabetes, high blood pressure, blood clots and even migraines should seek medical help when it comes to choosing the right method.
• Your return to fertility is also a very important factor to consider. This is because there are methods of birth control which will take away fertility for a longer time than you anticipated. Such methods include a shot of Depo-Provera. This progestin-only method has been reported to cause a lot of heartache to women who may end up loosing their fertility altogether. It is vital for you to consider a method that will enable you conceive at the time you wish to conceive.
• Effectiveness is the other great factor to consider. Every individual or couple wants to use a method that will guarantee good results. It is not always possible to have full guarantees with various birth control methods but, there are those that are more effective than others. Hormonal implants and injections top the list when it comes to effectiveness. Birth control pills, patches, rings and others follow. Methods like use of condoms, spermicides and diaphragms are moderately effective compared to the other methods. Your choice should be effective when it comes to preventing pregnancy.
• Protection from sexually transmitted diseases is also very important. It might even be more important than the risk of getting pregnant because your life is at stake. There are effective methods of birth control that will not do you justice when it comes to protecting you from diseases transmitted sexually. The use of condoms is the leading method when it comes to this form of protection. Therefore, it is wise to use a combination of various methods to protect yourself effectively from pregnancy and from contracting sexually transmitted diseases.
• Permanence is another key point to consider. You want a method that will serve you in a duration that is most suitable. For those who do not want any children or do not want more children, a permanent method like female tubal ligation or male vasectomy will be just right. However, if you do not want to do away with your fertility, it is advisable to stick to the more temporary methods of birth control.
• Finally, it is vital to consider other benefits that a birth control method can bring. For example, there are hormonal methods that have been seen to be effective against acne. Others have been seen to reduce menstrual cramping and pain. Let your health care provider guide you into making the best decisions with this regard.
Keep in mind that you want the methods to work for you. If you have a method that is doing the opposite, it is time to re-evaluate and consider the above factors. Chances are that there will be a method or methods that will work great to help you avoid unwanted pregnancy as well as sexually transmitted diseases.
Is Low Dose Birth Control OK For Disabled Women?
Are disabled women getting the best deal when it comes to enjoying sex without risking pregnancy if they don't want to or are unable to parent a child? According to Dr. Maida Taylor of the University of California, low dose birth control is manageable for lots of disabled women, as are many other types of birth control including the IUD so long as regular monitoring is carried out with adjustments made as necessary.
It DOES depend on the type of impairment a woman experiences, including a mental disability, as to which type of low dose birth control is suitable but the Depo injection or implants are not the only method of birth control that can be considered. Even the low dose birth control pill, in some circumstances, is quite OK.
The Depo-Provera shot [medroxyprogesterone acetate] is popular because it lasts for 3 months, it does not contain estrogen and is highly effective in preventing pregnancy. The injection is given into the woman's buttocks or the arm muscle. The 'shot' does not suit all women as it can cause headaches, bloating/weight gain and irregular bleeding which is tough enough for anyone to manage and I would imagine, the last thing you need if you're disabled.
Dr. Taylor reviewed several disabilities and diseases and below are her recommendations for which contraceptives are suitable for affected women:
Visual impairment and blindness. - if caused by a form of thrombosis, any birth control containing estrogen may be unsuitable. Dr. Taylor explains "but there is no evidence that hormonal contraception accelerates microvascular disease in diabetics. Since pregnancy has a high probability of accelerating retinal disease, effective contraception is essential for susceptible insulin-requiring diabetics"
Stroke, cerebrovascular accident and head injury - male and female condoms, caps, diaphragms and pessaries are fine. IUDs are good also. Again, Dr. Taylor warns that if cause of the disorder is thrombotic, then a contraceptive that does NOT contain estrogen should be used. As with any form of visual impairment, if a woman has suffered a head injury she should be very cautious about using oral contraceptives (OCs) so as not to cause further damage, even though the risk is small. "Contraceptive implant and progestin injectable might be considered with consultation," Dr. Taylor said.
Cerebral palsy, polio, and muscular dystrophy -low dose birth control pills and other methods of birth control containing estrogen need to be used with care and preferably only if a woman is fairly active. If a woman is immobile she is at greater risk from blood clots/thrombosis. Diaphragms are good but may not be suitable if a woman's bladder is not working properly as they can contribute to urine being held back and a subsequent urinary tract infection developing.
Mental retardation - condoms, caps, diaphragms and other barrier methods are not suitable for women who are severely retarded so for maximum effectiveness and convenience of use, Depo injections and implants are provided for these women. Dr. Taylor emphasises "With any and all contraception in this population, consent issues with parents, conservators, or courts may be raised. And there is a need to work with patients so they can comprehend, as much as possible, pregnancy, sexuality, and childbearing."
Loss of an arm, hand - this disability allows for several types of low dose birth control to be used if desired and barrier methods may be especially convenient and hassle free for the disabled woman but all this needs to be worked out with a partner, who must be willing to assist with a method of birth control that suits them both - so honest chats beforehand are the go here.
Partial loss of movement or impaired movement, paralysis or amputation of a leg - this often means that a woman is confined to a chair or bed and is not active in moving around so her risk of thrombosis is increased. Low dose birth control methods WITHOUT estrogen would not be suitable.
A woman's 'contraception career' lasts decades but does not need to be a burden for disabled women - if low dose birth control pills are used, constant monitoring of the combination with other medications taken and changing levels of hormones should be carried out. The type of low dose birth control that served you well at 29 may not be satisfactory when you're 35. If debilitation occurs or the progression of a disease brings on immobility or affects the immune system, the method of birth control should be reviewed.
A disabled woman has the right to have a variety of birth control methods 'designed' for her throughout her 'contraception career'. If she is unable to make a choice for herself, surely we have a duty of care to honour and acknowledge her sexuality by making that decision for her so that she can celebrate her womanhood with safety?
Carole Pemberton keeps you up to date with the latest information on contraceptives to empower you to enjoy your sexuality while successfully managing your 'contraception career'.
It DOES depend on the type of impairment a woman experiences, including a mental disability, as to which type of low dose birth control is suitable but the Depo injection or implants are not the only method of birth control that can be considered. Even the low dose birth control pill, in some circumstances, is quite OK.
The Depo-Provera shot [medroxyprogesterone acetate] is popular because it lasts for 3 months, it does not contain estrogen and is highly effective in preventing pregnancy. The injection is given into the woman's buttocks or the arm muscle. The 'shot' does not suit all women as it can cause headaches, bloating/weight gain and irregular bleeding which is tough enough for anyone to manage and I would imagine, the last thing you need if you're disabled.
Dr. Taylor reviewed several disabilities and diseases and below are her recommendations for which contraceptives are suitable for affected women:
Visual impairment and blindness. - if caused by a form of thrombosis, any birth control containing estrogen may be unsuitable. Dr. Taylor explains "but there is no evidence that hormonal contraception accelerates microvascular disease in diabetics. Since pregnancy has a high probability of accelerating retinal disease, effective contraception is essential for susceptible insulin-requiring diabetics"
Stroke, cerebrovascular accident and head injury - male and female condoms, caps, diaphragms and pessaries are fine. IUDs are good also. Again, Dr. Taylor warns that if cause of the disorder is thrombotic, then a contraceptive that does NOT contain estrogen should be used. As with any form of visual impairment, if a woman has suffered a head injury she should be very cautious about using oral contraceptives (OCs) so as not to cause further damage, even though the risk is small. "Contraceptive implant and progestin injectable might be considered with consultation," Dr. Taylor said.
Cerebral palsy, polio, and muscular dystrophy -low dose birth control pills and other methods of birth control containing estrogen need to be used with care and preferably only if a woman is fairly active. If a woman is immobile she is at greater risk from blood clots/thrombosis. Diaphragms are good but may not be suitable if a woman's bladder is not working properly as they can contribute to urine being held back and a subsequent urinary tract infection developing.
Mental retardation - condoms, caps, diaphragms and other barrier methods are not suitable for women who are severely retarded so for maximum effectiveness and convenience of use, Depo injections and implants are provided for these women. Dr. Taylor emphasises "With any and all contraception in this population, consent issues with parents, conservators, or courts may be raised. And there is a need to work with patients so they can comprehend, as much as possible, pregnancy, sexuality, and childbearing."
Loss of an arm, hand - this disability allows for several types of low dose birth control to be used if desired and barrier methods may be especially convenient and hassle free for the disabled woman but all this needs to be worked out with a partner, who must be willing to assist with a method of birth control that suits them both - so honest chats beforehand are the go here.
Partial loss of movement or impaired movement, paralysis or amputation of a leg - this often means that a woman is confined to a chair or bed and is not active in moving around so her risk of thrombosis is increased. Low dose birth control methods WITHOUT estrogen would not be suitable.
A woman's 'contraception career' lasts decades but does not need to be a burden for disabled women - if low dose birth control pills are used, constant monitoring of the combination with other medications taken and changing levels of hormones should be carried out. The type of low dose birth control that served you well at 29 may not be satisfactory when you're 35. If debilitation occurs or the progression of a disease brings on immobility or affects the immune system, the method of birth control should be reviewed.
A disabled woman has the right to have a variety of birth control methods 'designed' for her throughout her 'contraception career'. If she is unable to make a choice for herself, surely we have a duty of care to honour and acknowledge her sexuality by making that decision for her so that she can celebrate her womanhood with safety?
Carole Pemberton keeps you up to date with the latest information on contraceptives to empower you to enjoy your sexuality while successfully managing your 'contraception career'.
Birth Control Pills and HIV
Will birth control pills protect us from HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, and other STDs?
Some people are misled to believe that if they take birth control pills, they are protecting themselves not only from getting pregnant but also from infection with HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, birth control pills or other types of birth control, such as intrauterine devices (IUDs), Depo-Provera, or tubal ligation will NOT protect you from HIV and other STDs.
According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, the male latex condom is the only birth control method that is proven to help protect you from HIV and other STDs. If you are allergic to latex, there are condoms made of polyurethane that you can use. Condoms come lubricated (which can make sexual intercourse more comfortable and pleasurable) and non-lubricated (which can be used for oral sex).
It is important to only use latex or polyurethane condoms to protect against HIV and other STDs. "Natural" or "lambskin" condoms have tiny pores that may allow for the passage of viruses like HIV, hepatitis B and herpes.
If you use non-lubricated condoms for vaginal or anal sex, you can add lubrication with water-based lubricants (like KY jelly) that you can buy at a drug store. According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, you should never use oil-based products, such as massage oils, baby oil, lotions, or petroleum jelly, to lubricate a condom. These will weaken the condom, causing it to tear or break.
It is very important to use a condom correctly and consistently - which means every time you have vaginal, oral, or anal sex. If you do not know how to use a condom, talk with your doctor or nurse. Don't be embarrassed.
Also, do not assume that your partner knows how to use a condom correctly. Many men have never had anyone show them how. The biggest reason condoms fail is due to incorrect use. Male condoms can only be used once. Research is being done to find out how effective the female condom is in preventing HIV and other STDs.
Nowadays, there are many birth control methods available that a woman can use. Talk with your doctor or nurse to help your spouse figure out what method is best for her. She can always try one method and if she does not like it, she can try another one.
Some people are misled to believe that if they take birth control pills, they are protecting themselves not only from getting pregnant but also from infection with HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, birth control pills or other types of birth control, such as intrauterine devices (IUDs), Depo-Provera, or tubal ligation will NOT protect you from HIV and other STDs.
According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, the male latex condom is the only birth control method that is proven to help protect you from HIV and other STDs. If you are allergic to latex, there are condoms made of polyurethane that you can use. Condoms come lubricated (which can make sexual intercourse more comfortable and pleasurable) and non-lubricated (which can be used for oral sex).
It is important to only use latex or polyurethane condoms to protect against HIV and other STDs. "Natural" or "lambskin" condoms have tiny pores that may allow for the passage of viruses like HIV, hepatitis B and herpes.
If you use non-lubricated condoms for vaginal or anal sex, you can add lubrication with water-based lubricants (like KY jelly) that you can buy at a drug store. According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, you should never use oil-based products, such as massage oils, baby oil, lotions, or petroleum jelly, to lubricate a condom. These will weaken the condom, causing it to tear or break.
It is very important to use a condom correctly and consistently - which means every time you have vaginal, oral, or anal sex. If you do not know how to use a condom, talk with your doctor or nurse. Don't be embarrassed.
Also, do not assume that your partner knows how to use a condom correctly. Many men have never had anyone show them how. The biggest reason condoms fail is due to incorrect use. Male condoms can only be used once. Research is being done to find out how effective the female condom is in preventing HIV and other STDs.
Nowadays, there are many birth control methods available that a woman can use. Talk with your doctor or nurse to help your spouse figure out what method is best for her. She can always try one method and if she does not like it, she can try another one.
Can Birth Control Pills Cause Infertility?
Millions of women, in the U.S. and worldwide, use some sort of pharmaceutical birth control method or oral contraceptive such as the pill to prevent pregnancy while engaging in sex. For many years now, oral contraception has been the most popular of birth control methods, currently used by over 12 million women in the United States alone.
In this new century, longer term methods of birth control have become available. Among these are the hormonal contraceptive ring which provides approximately 3 continuous months of contraceptive control. Another birth control method is progestin implants, which release a continuous dose of progestin that acts to prevent ovulation. These implants can work from 3 to 6 years.
Some women use pharmaceutical contraception to avoid unwanted pregnancy. Others, however, use it as a means of spacing the births of their children. For those in the latter category, many fear that continuing to use pharmaceutical birth control will increase their chances of infertility and possibly prevent them from having children in the future.
Other lesser used birth control methods include the Intra-Uterine Contraceptive Device or IUD, condoms, spermicidal lotions, and, of course, abstinence.
The IUD is made of metal and plastic and is inserted into the woman's uterus. It prevents the fertilized female egg from being inserted into the uterine cavity, thus preventing pregnancy.
Of all methods of birth control, the ones at most risk for possibly causing future infertility are the IUD and the hormonal birth control methods such as the pill, hormonal contraceptive ring, and so on.
In normal cases, birth control pills aren't likely to impair your long-term fertility. The birth control pills produced today contain a fraction of estrogen and other chemicals compared to pills from the forty years ago or more. In fact, doctors will advise that most women can start tying to get pregnant immediately after stopping the pill without any problem. In the case of women using hormonal contraception or other long term birth control methods, the wait may be a bit longer as it takes time for the all of the chemicals to be purged from the body.
In some women, however, pharmaceutical birth control methods has been shown to adversely affect or destroy the cervical fluid needed for conception. Usually, but not always, this fluid is regenerated once the woman goes off the pill. If the fluid is damaged or not regenerated, there is a possibility that conception could be impacted.
However, the biggest danger of using pharmaceutical methods of birth control is that it makes the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases much easier which can absolutely increase the chances of infertility.
In the case of the IUD, the potential danger is less direct. The IUD has to be inserted into the uterus. While doing so, it is possible that bacteria will hitch a ride on the IUD device, enter the uterus causing it to become infected and damaged. If infected, the infection can, in some cases, lead to infertility.
Aside from abstinence, all methods of birth control carry some minimal risk. In most cases, however, the risk of them affecting your ability to have children is slight.
In this new century, longer term methods of birth control have become available. Among these are the hormonal contraceptive ring which provides approximately 3 continuous months of contraceptive control. Another birth control method is progestin implants, which release a continuous dose of progestin that acts to prevent ovulation. These implants can work from 3 to 6 years.
Some women use pharmaceutical contraception to avoid unwanted pregnancy. Others, however, use it as a means of spacing the births of their children. For those in the latter category, many fear that continuing to use pharmaceutical birth control will increase their chances of infertility and possibly prevent them from having children in the future.
Other lesser used birth control methods include the Intra-Uterine Contraceptive Device or IUD, condoms, spermicidal lotions, and, of course, abstinence.
The IUD is made of metal and plastic and is inserted into the woman's uterus. It prevents the fertilized female egg from being inserted into the uterine cavity, thus preventing pregnancy.
Of all methods of birth control, the ones at most risk for possibly causing future infertility are the IUD and the hormonal birth control methods such as the pill, hormonal contraceptive ring, and so on.
In normal cases, birth control pills aren't likely to impair your long-term fertility. The birth control pills produced today contain a fraction of estrogen and other chemicals compared to pills from the forty years ago or more. In fact, doctors will advise that most women can start tying to get pregnant immediately after stopping the pill without any problem. In the case of women using hormonal contraception or other long term birth control methods, the wait may be a bit longer as it takes time for the all of the chemicals to be purged from the body.
In some women, however, pharmaceutical birth control methods has been shown to adversely affect or destroy the cervical fluid needed for conception. Usually, but not always, this fluid is regenerated once the woman goes off the pill. If the fluid is damaged or not regenerated, there is a possibility that conception could be impacted.
However, the biggest danger of using pharmaceutical methods of birth control is that it makes the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases much easier which can absolutely increase the chances of infertility.
In the case of the IUD, the potential danger is less direct. The IUD has to be inserted into the uterus. While doing so, it is possible that bacteria will hitch a ride on the IUD device, enter the uterus causing it to become infected and damaged. If infected, the infection can, in some cases, lead to infertility.
Aside from abstinence, all methods of birth control carry some minimal risk. In most cases, however, the risk of them affecting your ability to have children is slight.
How the Latest Women's Birth Control Methods Affect Men
I think it's time someone talked about women's birth control from a man's perspective.Yeah, yeah. I understand that what a "woman does with her own body is her own business", etc. But that doesn't mean we as guys aren't going to have opinions about it.
After all, by definition, we're affected. At least somehow.
And never before have we been MORE affected than these days, when women's birth control has become as much of a "fashion accessory" or something as a practical solution to preventing pregnancy.
So here it is. We have "ribbed" condoms, flavored ones and so forth...which only goes to show that contraceptives are everyone's business after all.
So if women's interests can potentially be met by male contraception, it's time for us guys to have a voice.
1) The Patch
The birth control patch apparently works well, and fast. But this is not meant to be a dry clinical piece on objective functionality and medical pros/cons. So let's get to the point.
The point is that I don't want to see a big ol' sloppy Band-Aid ™ on her tail section. And no apologies either. A good, well-placed whack at key moments just doesn't quite resonate the same way (literally or figuratively) when that thing's stuck there. And since most women and men are right-handed, this just underscores my point. If that last sentence didn't make sense, think about it until it does.
So ladies, if you must use The Patch, I fully get you're trying to make it discreet so you don't look like you're healing from road rash or something. But it can't go back there either.
And since I'm at a loss for recommending a better place for it myself, I feel your dilemma. Especially since even if you decide to just yank the patch off and chuck it there tends to be a nasty mark for a while. It's as if some mutant square-faced leech has been macking away at you. Nice.
2) The Ring
Formally branded "NuvaRing", nothing quite takes the "ce" out of "contraception" like this contraption.
Yes, it works, and it's probably a major improvement upon diaphragms and IUDs.
But you don't think it adversely affects your sex life, guess again.
First and foremost, don't listen to your gynecologist, who will probably tell you that "you won't be able to feel it, and neither will your guy."
Whatever.
That theory goes out the window the first time "your guy" pulls out wearing the thing. Bulls eye.
Me: "It looks I won the 'ring toss' game. Where's my big teddy bear?"
Her: "[gasp] OMG...that wasn't supposed to be possible! LOL Here, let me put it on the nightstand/dashboard/kitchen counter/shower head"
Unfortunately, you only get three hours worth of a "time out" from that thing before the whole transaction is null and void and all bets are off. Ouch.
Speaking of "ouch", if you just leave The Ring in and deal with carnival games, there's always the off chance that Louis Leakey is going to find it right at an inopportune moment...sideways. Let's just say that's a mood killer.
And we won't talk about the likelihood of finding "temporarily" removed rings on the carpet by the bed with lint all stuck to them. Uh oh.
So what's a woman to do? Sure that's your business, ladies. Then again, we could wear latex condoms even if you're viciously allergic, couldn't we?
But we won't. And we'd appreciate if you'd stick to the pill if at all possible, please.
And by the way guys, don't be talked out of wrapping that rascal, either by her or by yourself.
And if she says, "I'm on the pill so you don't have to pull out", there's no proof like solid evidence in the form of a pill case with the "numbers matching".
At least you have tangible evidence with rings and patches, huh? Well, that's at least one in the "plus" column for them. Draw your own conclusions.
After all, by definition, we're affected. At least somehow.
And never before have we been MORE affected than these days, when women's birth control has become as much of a "fashion accessory" or something as a practical solution to preventing pregnancy.
So here it is. We have "ribbed" condoms, flavored ones and so forth...which only goes to show that contraceptives are everyone's business after all.
So if women's interests can potentially be met by male contraception, it's time for us guys to have a voice.
1) The Patch
The birth control patch apparently works well, and fast. But this is not meant to be a dry clinical piece on objective functionality and medical pros/cons. So let's get to the point.
The point is that I don't want to see a big ol' sloppy Band-Aid ™ on her tail section. And no apologies either. A good, well-placed whack at key moments just doesn't quite resonate the same way (literally or figuratively) when that thing's stuck there. And since most women and men are right-handed, this just underscores my point. If that last sentence didn't make sense, think about it until it does.
So ladies, if you must use The Patch, I fully get you're trying to make it discreet so you don't look like you're healing from road rash or something. But it can't go back there either.
And since I'm at a loss for recommending a better place for it myself, I feel your dilemma. Especially since even if you decide to just yank the patch off and chuck it there tends to be a nasty mark for a while. It's as if some mutant square-faced leech has been macking away at you. Nice.
2) The Ring
Formally branded "NuvaRing", nothing quite takes the "ce" out of "contraception" like this contraption.
Yes, it works, and it's probably a major improvement upon diaphragms and IUDs.
But you don't think it adversely affects your sex life, guess again.
First and foremost, don't listen to your gynecologist, who will probably tell you that "you won't be able to feel it, and neither will your guy."
Whatever.
That theory goes out the window the first time "your guy" pulls out wearing the thing. Bulls eye.
Me: "It looks I won the 'ring toss' game. Where's my big teddy bear?"
Her: "[gasp] OMG...that wasn't supposed to be possible! LOL Here, let me put it on the nightstand/dashboard/kitchen counter/shower head"
Unfortunately, you only get three hours worth of a "time out" from that thing before the whole transaction is null and void and all bets are off. Ouch.
Speaking of "ouch", if you just leave The Ring in and deal with carnival games, there's always the off chance that Louis Leakey is going to find it right at an inopportune moment...sideways. Let's just say that's a mood killer.
And we won't talk about the likelihood of finding "temporarily" removed rings on the carpet by the bed with lint all stuck to them. Uh oh.
So what's a woman to do? Sure that's your business, ladies. Then again, we could wear latex condoms even if you're viciously allergic, couldn't we?
But we won't. And we'd appreciate if you'd stick to the pill if at all possible, please.
And by the way guys, don't be talked out of wrapping that rascal, either by her or by yourself.
And if she says, "I'm on the pill so you don't have to pull out", there's no proof like solid evidence in the form of a pill case with the "numbers matching".
At least you have tangible evidence with rings and patches, huh? Well, that's at least one in the "plus" column for them. Draw your own conclusions.
The Many Choices Of Birth Control
Birth control dates back hundreds of years. Though pills and various other methods are all the rage right now, they were not so much the type of birth control that used to exist in past times. As people, technology and science has evolved so too have the methods of birth control available to a couple wishing to postpone pregnancy or prevent it all together. The most common birth control on the market today is the pill. But many women do not like the pill due to side effects they may experience so they either turn to newer forms of birth control or ones that have a proven track record.
There are many forms of birth control alternatives. Another popular choice is the condom, which has been developed to suit both genders and protect both of them from not only unwanted pregnancy but also sexually transmitted diseases. There is also the rhythm method in which a female who is very in tune to her cycle and regular in her cycle just avoids having sexual intercourse on days that she is most fertile and most likely to become pregnant. This option works well in the fact it requires no extra medications or outside items but also finds itself lacking if the women is irregular or her body goes off cycle.
No matter the form of birth control chosen it is important to note that either gender now has partial control in deciding whether or not they have a child. The females has many choices as does the male, some have better track records than others but are still effective if used properly. There is little reason these days to find yourself in the situation of an unwanted pregnancy, with a little research you can find the birth control method that is best suited to you and your partner.
There are many forms of birth control alternatives. Another popular choice is the condom, which has been developed to suit both genders and protect both of them from not only unwanted pregnancy but also sexually transmitted diseases. There is also the rhythm method in which a female who is very in tune to her cycle and regular in her cycle just avoids having sexual intercourse on days that she is most fertile and most likely to become pregnant. This option works well in the fact it requires no extra medications or outside items but also finds itself lacking if the women is irregular or her body goes off cycle.
No matter the form of birth control chosen it is important to note that either gender now has partial control in deciding whether or not they have a child. The females has many choices as does the male, some have better track records than others but are still effective if used properly. There is little reason these days to find yourself in the situation of an unwanted pregnancy, with a little research you can find the birth control method that is best suited to you and your partner.
Male Birth Control
Male Birth Control: Simple Enough?
Yes, male birth control methods are simple enough and yet men still don't get it. There are only three male contraception methods, although there's news of creating a hormonal contraceptive pill for male but the development of the drug is still underway. So we are down to three male birth control methods for now.
Condoms, vasectomy, and withdrawal. These are the only three contraceptives that men have to worry about. But that number we can still narrow down. Vasectomy is often not an option taken by males since they often believe that the procedure is irreversible. For your information, the procedure is reversible. But still this method needs the man to be lying on his back on the operating table and going under the knife, and such an idea is usually not that appealing. Not that I blame the man, though, nobody wants to be lying in an operating table for whatever purpose.
The second method is withdrawal. You have a higher chance of getting your partner pregnant with this method. This can be effective when combined with the calendar method of birth control. The calendar method if in case you don't know means tracking the menstrual cycle of your partner and having intercourse only during the first eight days of the cycle. This is quite effective when you have only one partner but can be highly risky if you engage in social sex.
With everything said about the other two methods, our last method seems to be the most suited in all occasions and situations. The use of condoms as a birth control method has a high enough success rate. It is not 100% effective since no birth control method really is perfect. And yet, men oftentimes fail in birth control even if there are only three methods that they have to choose from, or rather have a single method at their disposal if you follow our argument.
However, there are studies being done which gives men other options aside from those three. I really don't know if these new contraceptive methods will help especially if men are in general not paying much that attention to contraceptives anyways.
But still, this development in male birth control is a welcome one. Research have been looking at developing medications, much like the female birth control pills, targeting the hormones inside the male body. This hormonal contraception can be administered as injections or as implants, although, like I said research is still being conducted and experiments are being performed to show if such contraceptives are possible.
This hormonal contraception for males will function as a limiting catalyst to the production of the male sperm. The tricky aspect of the research is finding a way of bringing back the sperm count level to the amount that men will be considered as fertile.
Other method that they are looking for includes implanting tiny plugs called IVD (Intra Vas Device) to block the sperm; applying heat to the testes to induce infertility; and even the use of ultrasound waves as a means to control the production of the sperm. The ultrasound waves will heat the testes which will result to reducing the production of sperms. Again, the issue of whether the sperm count will normalize after a few months or even years.
Well, regardless of the methods under study the present male birth control is quite simple enough so men should learn how to use them or else it's off to the operating with you.
Yes, male birth control methods are simple enough and yet men still don't get it. There are only three male contraception methods, although there's news of creating a hormonal contraceptive pill for male but the development of the drug is still underway. So we are down to three male birth control methods for now.
Condoms, vasectomy, and withdrawal. These are the only three contraceptives that men have to worry about. But that number we can still narrow down. Vasectomy is often not an option taken by males since they often believe that the procedure is irreversible. For your information, the procedure is reversible. But still this method needs the man to be lying on his back on the operating table and going under the knife, and such an idea is usually not that appealing. Not that I blame the man, though, nobody wants to be lying in an operating table for whatever purpose.
The second method is withdrawal. You have a higher chance of getting your partner pregnant with this method. This can be effective when combined with the calendar method of birth control. The calendar method if in case you don't know means tracking the menstrual cycle of your partner and having intercourse only during the first eight days of the cycle. This is quite effective when you have only one partner but can be highly risky if you engage in social sex.
With everything said about the other two methods, our last method seems to be the most suited in all occasions and situations. The use of condoms as a birth control method has a high enough success rate. It is not 100% effective since no birth control method really is perfect. And yet, men oftentimes fail in birth control even if there are only three methods that they have to choose from, or rather have a single method at their disposal if you follow our argument.
However, there are studies being done which gives men other options aside from those three. I really don't know if these new contraceptive methods will help especially if men are in general not paying much that attention to contraceptives anyways.
But still, this development in male birth control is a welcome one. Research have been looking at developing medications, much like the female birth control pills, targeting the hormones inside the male body. This hormonal contraception can be administered as injections or as implants, although, like I said research is still being conducted and experiments are being performed to show if such contraceptives are possible.
This hormonal contraception for males will function as a limiting catalyst to the production of the male sperm. The tricky aspect of the research is finding a way of bringing back the sperm count level to the amount that men will be considered as fertile.
Other method that they are looking for includes implanting tiny plugs called IVD (Intra Vas Device) to block the sperm; applying heat to the testes to induce infertility; and even the use of ultrasound waves as a means to control the production of the sperm. The ultrasound waves will heat the testes which will result to reducing the production of sperms. Again, the issue of whether the sperm count will normalize after a few months or even years.
Well, regardless of the methods under study the present male birth control is quite simple enough so men should learn how to use them or else it's off to the operating with you.
Effective Ways Of Birth Control After Pregnancy
Sex after pregnancy period is associated with anxiety and confusion in many couples. Many women are not ready for sex till some time after their delivery. Their self-confidence is a little low, as they want to look good even after pregnancy. Hormonal changes also play a major role in this changed attitude towards sex after delivery. However once you are ready for it the next big question is how to take care of birth control after pregnancy. Birth control while breast-feeding is not a sure shot solution. You may get pregnant in this stage also. Therefore, it's essential that you know safer ways of birth control after pregnancy.
Sex After Pregnancy
Many women do not indulge in intercourse up to 2 months after delivery. This works fine if it's a mutual decision of the couple. Some women do not fee like having sex after pregnancy due to hormonal changes.
The vagina and cervix takes a couple of weeks to heal after which it is safe to have intercourse. Doctor's consultation is always advised, as most women tend to become fertile after two weeks of their delivery.
There are many birth control methods, which women can choose from, after their pregnancy period. Some of the most common ones are:
LAM For Birth Control
LAM is also known as breast feeding method and is a common way of birth control after pregnancy. The thumb rule of this technique is to feed your child every four hours during daytime and every six hours during night.
It works for only those women who are still breastfeeding and have also not got back their menstrual cycle after pregnancy. This method is only effective till six months then you might have to switch to some other method.
Barrier Methods
Barrier methods of birth control after pregnancy are very popular amongst couples. This includes condoms, diaphragms and other things like sponges which help in ensuring safer sex. Women should only use spermicidal methods once the vagina has healed. A doctor should be consulted before using them. Other barrier methods can be used only after six to eight weeks after delivery.
IUD Insertion
IUD is a technique of birth control after pregnancy, which does not affect the women's breast milk. If the IUD is correctly inserted by a professional, be assured, you cannot get pregnant.
Birth Control Through Hormones
Mothers who are breast-feeding cannot take hormones like estrogen. Which means that using the vaginal ring, wearing a patch and taking pills is strictly prohibited. This hormone might affect your breast milk and reduces the milk supply, which can be harmful for your child. Only progestin is safe for nursing mothers, as it does not enter the breast milk. If you are doubtful, forget hormonal methods and opt for other ways of birth control such as barrier methods, or simply do not have sex for some time!
You can enjoy lovemaking as before if you take care of birth control after pregnancy by using any of the above methods. Before selecting a method its best to consult your doctor, then start on technique that is best suitable for you as a couple.
Sex After Pregnancy
Many women do not indulge in intercourse up to 2 months after delivery. This works fine if it's a mutual decision of the couple. Some women do not fee like having sex after pregnancy due to hormonal changes.
The vagina and cervix takes a couple of weeks to heal after which it is safe to have intercourse. Doctor's consultation is always advised, as most women tend to become fertile after two weeks of their delivery.
There are many birth control methods, which women can choose from, after their pregnancy period. Some of the most common ones are:
LAM For Birth Control
LAM is also known as breast feeding method and is a common way of birth control after pregnancy. The thumb rule of this technique is to feed your child every four hours during daytime and every six hours during night.
It works for only those women who are still breastfeeding and have also not got back their menstrual cycle after pregnancy. This method is only effective till six months then you might have to switch to some other method.
Barrier Methods
Barrier methods of birth control after pregnancy are very popular amongst couples. This includes condoms, diaphragms and other things like sponges which help in ensuring safer sex. Women should only use spermicidal methods once the vagina has healed. A doctor should be consulted before using them. Other barrier methods can be used only after six to eight weeks after delivery.
IUD Insertion
IUD is a technique of birth control after pregnancy, which does not affect the women's breast milk. If the IUD is correctly inserted by a professional, be assured, you cannot get pregnant.
Birth Control Through Hormones
Mothers who are breast-feeding cannot take hormones like estrogen. Which means that using the vaginal ring, wearing a patch and taking pills is strictly prohibited. This hormone might affect your breast milk and reduces the milk supply, which can be harmful for your child. Only progestin is safe for nursing mothers, as it does not enter the breast milk. If you are doubtful, forget hormonal methods and opt for other ways of birth control such as barrier methods, or simply do not have sex for some time!
You can enjoy lovemaking as before if you take care of birth control after pregnancy by using any of the above methods. Before selecting a method its best to consult your doctor, then start on technique that is best suitable for you as a couple.
Review On Birth Control Pill
Ortho Tri-Cyclen - Provides birth control and acne control
Ortho Tri-Cylcen is clinically proven birth control pills. Unlike many other births control pills which offer the solutions toward birth control, but give you another problem by populating yourself with acne. It is a hormonal treatment whereby dropping significantly the chance of women being fertilized, while reducing the other hormone which cause acne at the same time. It has been clinically proven that it helps to significantly reduce acne population in the skin. Scientific research by FDA has demonstrated that improvement of acne was reported during the use in more than 85% of the participants treated with Ortho TriCyclen.
Female usually go through 3 levels of hormonal change during their cycle. Ortho Tri Cyclen which is the combination of hormones named norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol, also deliver 3 levels instead of just one or two. Therefore, you get the proper amount of hormones throughout your cycle to prevent pregnancy. It works by preventing the eggs to be released from ovaries into the uterus (place where fertilization usually occur). In addition, it also thickened the uterus; thereby make it very difficult for the sperm to enter the uterus.
Precautions before you decide to buy Ortho Tri Cyclen
1) Do not use this medication if you have recently had a baby or you are pregnant.
2) Do not use this medication if you have a history of stroke, a hormone-related cancer such as breast cancer, abnormal vaginal bleeding, liver disease or liver cancer, migraine headaches, circulation problems or a history of jaundice caused by birth control pills.
3) Do not use this medication if you are smoker or older than 35
4) Birth control pills become less effective if you combine with other medication. Make sure you consult with your doctor.
Side effects of Ortho Tri Cyclen
You might feel nausea and vomiting after you have taken Ortho Tri Cyclen during the first few weeks. However, this is completely normal as your body adjust to a new kind of hormonal level. Consult your doctor if you suffer from severe abdominal pain, limb swelling and blurred vision
Ortho Tri-Cylcen is clinically proven birth control pills. Unlike many other births control pills which offer the solutions toward birth control, but give you another problem by populating yourself with acne. It is a hormonal treatment whereby dropping significantly the chance of women being fertilized, while reducing the other hormone which cause acne at the same time. It has been clinically proven that it helps to significantly reduce acne population in the skin. Scientific research by FDA has demonstrated that improvement of acne was reported during the use in more than 85% of the participants treated with Ortho TriCyclen.
Female usually go through 3 levels of hormonal change during their cycle. Ortho Tri Cyclen which is the combination of hormones named norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol, also deliver 3 levels instead of just one or two. Therefore, you get the proper amount of hormones throughout your cycle to prevent pregnancy. It works by preventing the eggs to be released from ovaries into the uterus (place where fertilization usually occur). In addition, it also thickened the uterus; thereby make it very difficult for the sperm to enter the uterus.
Precautions before you decide to buy Ortho Tri Cyclen
1) Do not use this medication if you have recently had a baby or you are pregnant.
2) Do not use this medication if you have a history of stroke, a hormone-related cancer such as breast cancer, abnormal vaginal bleeding, liver disease or liver cancer, migraine headaches, circulation problems or a history of jaundice caused by birth control pills.
3) Do not use this medication if you are smoker or older than 35
4) Birth control pills become less effective if you combine with other medication. Make sure you consult with your doctor.
Side effects of Ortho Tri Cyclen
You might feel nausea and vomiting after you have taken Ortho Tri Cyclen during the first few weeks. However, this is completely normal as your body adjust to a new kind of hormonal level. Consult your doctor if you suffer from severe abdominal pain, limb swelling and blurred vision
Birth Control Needs, Methods and Information Available For Today's Women
With the rapid growth of the population in the world as well as the increased sense in general awareness for HIV/AIDS, has forced to think on birth control methods. The current world’s population is estimated to be around 6.4 billion with annual growth of 76 million and hence, it is estimated to reach 9 billion by year 2050. In next two decades, world’s two highly populous countries, China & India are expected to reach the population of 1.5 billion each i.e more than one third of the total world population of that time. It is alarming situation for the world to control this “population explosion”. Therefore, United Nations are urging countries specially highly populated countries to control their population.
As per the survey report for birth control methods if applied in 169 countries, 137 million women willing to delay their contraceptives, 64 million women are using less effective birth control measures. If these women are helped with adequate birth control treatment (like pills, condoms), 23 million of unplanned births, 22 million induced abortions and 1.4 million infants could be avoided as estimated by United Nations Population Fund.
Besides population, HIV/AIDS is also very important factor forcing the need for birth control. An estimated, world has 38 million people have either AIDS or infected with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). In seven African countries, one out of 5 adults is infected with HIV. Birth control methods are, therefore, become imperative to control further spread of HIV/AIDS, particularly in these countries. The population in these countries is projected at 35% lower by 2025 free from HIV/AIDS. It will further reduce the total life expectancy by an average of 29 years in these countries.
History of Birth Control
200 AD, Greek gynecologist Soranus said that women become fertile during ovulation. He suggested some birth control tips for women to avoid unwanted pregnancy like smearing olive oil, pomegranate pulp, ginger, or tobacco juice around vagina to kill sperm, drinking water used by blacksmith to cool hot metals and jumping 7 times backward after the sexual intercourse. Many birth control methods like ayurvedic treatments used centuries ago (aside from sexual abstinence). However, there are some historical records of Egyptian women are found who were using some herbal or acid substances like crocodile dung or lubricants like honey or household olive oil as vaginal suppository, which they may have found effective at killing sperm.
However, commercial use of birth control method started in 1960 in the form of birth control pill. It was in 1950, when Planned Parenthood Federation of America invited biologist Dr. Gregory Pincus to develop oral contraceptive pill that would be harmless, universally acceptable and safe for husband and wife. After under going many tests with more than 6,000 women in Puerto Rico and Haiti , it was 1960 when the first commercially produced birth control pill called Enovid-10 was introduced to women in USA . This first oral contraceptive was made with two hormones Estrogen (100 to 175 microgram) and Progestin (10 mg). They were proved to be 99% effective if taken as directed. With estimation, more than 18 million women in US are relying on birth control pills
Types of birth control pills
Unlike the decades old oral contraceptive pills (which had higher number of hormones), today’s birth control pills are in low-dose forms with health benefits. So, women can take birth control pills with much fewer health risks.
Generally there are three types of birth control pills available
1. Progestin only pills (POP)
It is also known as “mini-pill” containing no estrogen. It is recommended for breastfeeding women because estrogen reduced milk production. This POP pill works by thickening the cervical mucus and thus preventing sperm to enter uterus
2. Combination birth control pills
The widely known birth control pills are having combination of two hormones progestin and estrogen. These types of oral contraceptive pills come with the pack of 21 “active pills” and 7 “placebos” , which do not contain any hormones. These are, in fact, known as “reminder pills”
These combination pills are further sub-divided into three types of pills due to the level of two hormones progestin and estrogen.
i) Monophasic birth control pills
Here, every active pill contains the equal number of progestin and estrogen. The other seven pills are placebo having no hormones. Menstruation starts when these placebo pills are taken
ii) Multiphasic birth control pills
They are also known as biphasic or trphasic oral contraceptive pills due to different levels of hormones in active pills. These pills are required to be taken at specific time in its entire pills schedule. Multiphasic birth control pills help offsetting the risks of oral contraceptives.
iii) Continuous birth control pills
it is also known as 365 days pills to be taken continuously throughout the year without the year. This is the new entry of oral contraceptive pills in the birth control market. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Lybrel, which is the only continuous birth control pill approved so far and available for general women use. Women do not get menstrual period while they are under the treatment of Lybrel, however, they might find some breakthrough bleeding or spotting, particularly at the initial stage.
3) Emergency birth control pills
Also known as “morning after pills”, these are designed for immediate pregnancy protection after the unprotected sex. It is highly recommended to take emergency pills within 48 hours and maximum 72 hours to be effective in avoiding pregnancy. These are different than usual oral contraceptive pills where you plan your birth control much in advance. Emergency pills are also taken when the women are sexually assaulted. FDA has approved Plan B as the safest emergency pills. Due to OTC (over the counter) approval by FDA for women above 18 years, Plan B can now be ordered behind pharmacy counter.
As per the survey report for birth control methods if applied in 169 countries, 137 million women willing to delay their contraceptives, 64 million women are using less effective birth control measures. If these women are helped with adequate birth control treatment (like pills, condoms), 23 million of unplanned births, 22 million induced abortions and 1.4 million infants could be avoided as estimated by United Nations Population Fund.
Besides population, HIV/AIDS is also very important factor forcing the need for birth control. An estimated, world has 38 million people have either AIDS or infected with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). In seven African countries, one out of 5 adults is infected with HIV. Birth control methods are, therefore, become imperative to control further spread of HIV/AIDS, particularly in these countries. The population in these countries is projected at 35% lower by 2025 free from HIV/AIDS. It will further reduce the total life expectancy by an average of 29 years in these countries.
History of Birth Control
200 AD, Greek gynecologist Soranus said that women become fertile during ovulation. He suggested some birth control tips for women to avoid unwanted pregnancy like smearing olive oil, pomegranate pulp, ginger, or tobacco juice around vagina to kill sperm, drinking water used by blacksmith to cool hot metals and jumping 7 times backward after the sexual intercourse. Many birth control methods like ayurvedic treatments used centuries ago (aside from sexual abstinence). However, there are some historical records of Egyptian women are found who were using some herbal or acid substances like crocodile dung or lubricants like honey or household olive oil as vaginal suppository, which they may have found effective at killing sperm.
However, commercial use of birth control method started in 1960 in the form of birth control pill. It was in 1950, when Planned Parenthood Federation of America invited biologist Dr. Gregory Pincus to develop oral contraceptive pill that would be harmless, universally acceptable and safe for husband and wife. After under going many tests with more than 6,000 women in Puerto Rico and Haiti , it was 1960 when the first commercially produced birth control pill called Enovid-10 was introduced to women in USA . This first oral contraceptive was made with two hormones Estrogen (100 to 175 microgram) and Progestin (10 mg). They were proved to be 99% effective if taken as directed. With estimation, more than 18 million women in US are relying on birth control pills
Types of birth control pills
Unlike the decades old oral contraceptive pills (which had higher number of hormones), today’s birth control pills are in low-dose forms with health benefits. So, women can take birth control pills with much fewer health risks.
Generally there are three types of birth control pills available
1. Progestin only pills (POP)
It is also known as “mini-pill” containing no estrogen. It is recommended for breastfeeding women because estrogen reduced milk production. This POP pill works by thickening the cervical mucus and thus preventing sperm to enter uterus
2. Combination birth control pills
The widely known birth control pills are having combination of two hormones progestin and estrogen. These types of oral contraceptive pills come with the pack of 21 “active pills” and 7 “placebos” , which do not contain any hormones. These are, in fact, known as “reminder pills”
These combination pills are further sub-divided into three types of pills due to the level of two hormones progestin and estrogen.
i) Monophasic birth control pills
Here, every active pill contains the equal number of progestin and estrogen. The other seven pills are placebo having no hormones. Menstruation starts when these placebo pills are taken
ii) Multiphasic birth control pills
They are also known as biphasic or trphasic oral contraceptive pills due to different levels of hormones in active pills. These pills are required to be taken at specific time in its entire pills schedule. Multiphasic birth control pills help offsetting the risks of oral contraceptives.
iii) Continuous birth control pills
it is also known as 365 days pills to be taken continuously throughout the year without the year. This is the new entry of oral contraceptive pills in the birth control market. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Lybrel, which is the only continuous birth control pill approved so far and available for general women use. Women do not get menstrual period while they are under the treatment of Lybrel, however, they might find some breakthrough bleeding or spotting, particularly at the initial stage.
3) Emergency birth control pills
Also known as “morning after pills”, these are designed for immediate pregnancy protection after the unprotected sex. It is highly recommended to take emergency pills within 48 hours and maximum 72 hours to be effective in avoiding pregnancy. These are different than usual oral contraceptive pills where you plan your birth control much in advance. Emergency pills are also taken when the women are sexually assaulted. FDA has approved Plan B as the safest emergency pills. Due to OTC (over the counter) approval by FDA for women above 18 years, Plan B can now be ordered behind pharmacy counter.
Birth Control After Pregnancy - A Must For Your And Your Child's Wellbeing
For you and your child’s wellbeing, you have to take an informed decision regarding birth control after pregnancy. There are many types of birth control methods available in the market today; however, only some of these methods will suit your body. It thus becomes imperative that you weigh the pros and cons of various birth control methods before you choose one.
After the pregnancy period is over your hormones will undergo dramatic changes. Some women will not show any interest in sex, while others will witness an increase in their sex drive. Physically most women are fit to have sex two weeks after giving birth, as the vagina typically takes two weeks to heal and the cervix also closes by this time.
If you are interested in sex after pregnancy, you should understand that there is a huge chance that you could get pregnant again even two weeks after giving birth. Therefore, you have to choose your contraception carefully. Ask your doctor if it is absolutely okay for you to have sex.
Lactational Amenorrhea Method
There are basically four types of birth control after pregnancy methods that women can choose from. Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM), also called the breastfeeding method, can be used by women who are nursing and have not had their menstrual cycle after pregnancy. For this method to be effective you need to breastfeed your baby from both breasts every four hours and in the night every six hours. This method of birth control while breastfeeding works for six months after the baby is born and then you would have to shift to contraception.
Barrier Methods
Barrier methods for birth control after pregnancy include condoms, female condoms, sponges, diaphragms, cervical caps, and shields. They would not cause any harm to your nursing infant.
Hormonal Methods
The hormonal methods for birth control after pregnancy should be taken after careful considerations. If you are nursing, you should not take combination hormone treatment that has estrogen or ethinyl estradiol in it. You can pass on the estrogen to your baby via the breast milk. Progestin-only methods of birth control, like mini-pills, Depo-Provera, etc. are often said to be safe for both you and your baby; however, some doctors claim that progestin can also be passed on to your baby.
IUD
Intra Uterine Devices, like Copper IUD, are safe and effective birth control devices. An IUD will not have any affect on your breast milk, so you can use it even while nursing.
Besides the above mentioned methods you can do what many other women do - keep track of your fertility cycle. Your doctor can help you learn about your fertility cycle. Then all you need to do is abstain from sex on your unsafe days.
Birth control will ensure that you do not get pregnant again soon after giving birth. This will give you time to properly look after yourself and your baby. Most importantly this will also give you time to get back into shape so that you look good after pregnancy. Talk to your doctor about birth control after pregnancy and decide accordingly.
Taking adequate steps for birth control after pregnancy is necessary if you want to maintain your health and your child’s as well. Today women have many birth control options to choose from after they witness resumption of menstrual cycle after pregnancy. All you have to do is weigh the pros and cons carefully and then make your decision. Visit Pregnancy for more on issues such as birth control while breastfeeding, look good after pregnancy and sex after pregnancy besides all other information you would like to have about pregnancy and childbirth.
After the pregnancy period is over your hormones will undergo dramatic changes. Some women will not show any interest in sex, while others will witness an increase in their sex drive. Physically most women are fit to have sex two weeks after giving birth, as the vagina typically takes two weeks to heal and the cervix also closes by this time.
If you are interested in sex after pregnancy, you should understand that there is a huge chance that you could get pregnant again even two weeks after giving birth. Therefore, you have to choose your contraception carefully. Ask your doctor if it is absolutely okay for you to have sex.
Lactational Amenorrhea Method
There are basically four types of birth control after pregnancy methods that women can choose from. Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM), also called the breastfeeding method, can be used by women who are nursing and have not had their menstrual cycle after pregnancy. For this method to be effective you need to breastfeed your baby from both breasts every four hours and in the night every six hours. This method of birth control while breastfeeding works for six months after the baby is born and then you would have to shift to contraception.
Barrier Methods
Barrier methods for birth control after pregnancy include condoms, female condoms, sponges, diaphragms, cervical caps, and shields. They would not cause any harm to your nursing infant.
Hormonal Methods
The hormonal methods for birth control after pregnancy should be taken after careful considerations. If you are nursing, you should not take combination hormone treatment that has estrogen or ethinyl estradiol in it. You can pass on the estrogen to your baby via the breast milk. Progestin-only methods of birth control, like mini-pills, Depo-Provera, etc. are often said to be safe for both you and your baby; however, some doctors claim that progestin can also be passed on to your baby.
IUD
Intra Uterine Devices, like Copper IUD, are safe and effective birth control devices. An IUD will not have any affect on your breast milk, so you can use it even while nursing.
Besides the above mentioned methods you can do what many other women do - keep track of your fertility cycle. Your doctor can help you learn about your fertility cycle. Then all you need to do is abstain from sex on your unsafe days.
Birth control will ensure that you do not get pregnant again soon after giving birth. This will give you time to properly look after yourself and your baby. Most importantly this will also give you time to get back into shape so that you look good after pregnancy. Talk to your doctor about birth control after pregnancy and decide accordingly.
Taking adequate steps for birth control after pregnancy is necessary if you want to maintain your health and your child’s as well. Today women have many birth control options to choose from after they witness resumption of menstrual cycle after pregnancy. All you have to do is weigh the pros and cons carefully and then make your decision. Visit Pregnancy for more on issues such as birth control while breastfeeding, look good after pregnancy and sex after pregnancy besides all other information you would like to have about pregnancy and childbirth.
Birth Control Natural Supplement
Birth control methods have been used by women since ages. They have used herbs to control fertility. Family planning has always been widely practiced by men and women since ages. The difference is that in early times people used birth control methods that were risky and caused death to a number of women. They were dangerous and ineffective. But today they involve less risk with it.
Today medical science has endowed women with various choices when it comes to birth control such as “the pill”, Norplant capsules, Depo-Provera, the female condom, diaphragm, cervical cap, intrauterine device (IUD) and sterilization. Most of these alternatives are convenient and easy and women do not face many problems. But there are various medications, supplements and other substances that have been said to worsen high blood pressure (hypertension). And few women do have serious problems when no proper advice is taken from the medical provider. The birth control methods especially the pills can cause migraines, yeast infections, vitamin deficiencies, ectopic pregnancies and change in moods. There are few serious problems also associated with it such as increased risks for cardiovascular disease and cancer. As a result some women are going for something natural, for something that has no chemicals, no side effects and a surprisingly low risk of pregnancy.
Years back abstinence that is having no sexual intercourse was practiced by many. They did have sex when they wanted but kept them away from having sex during the days of ovulation in a woman. They called it the “rhythm cycle”. A woman would know that she is most likely to get pregnant by observing her own body and menstrual cycle. This method is still used in today’s omodern world known as FAM (fertility awareness method) that help women to know when ovulation is coming and is likely to get pregnant and as such refrain from sexual intercourse. Although such technique is not dangerous it is not 100 % effective. But there are some old methods that cause great damage and can even cause death.
In third world countries where use of contraceptives is not common, people use methods that are dangerous and ineffective. They also use herbal supplements for birth control that might have severe side effects. Although not all herbal birth supplements are harmful yet there is some risk associated unless one does not have complete knowledge about it. The use of natural supplements which has some extracts from plants does not mean that they are 100% safe. Such natural supplements can cause some allergies and other problems. Therefore it is always recommended to go for the modern methods of birth control and if you opt for natural method then there should be complete knowledge of the natural supplement. You should be aware of the risk factrs associated with it and should not be used blindly.
Today medical science has endowed women with various choices when it comes to birth control such as “the pill”, Norplant capsules, Depo-Provera, the female condom, diaphragm, cervical cap, intrauterine device (IUD) and sterilization. Most of these alternatives are convenient and easy and women do not face many problems. But there are various medications, supplements and other substances that have been said to worsen high blood pressure (hypertension). And few women do have serious problems when no proper advice is taken from the medical provider. The birth control methods especially the pills can cause migraines, yeast infections, vitamin deficiencies, ectopic pregnancies and change in moods. There are few serious problems also associated with it such as increased risks for cardiovascular disease and cancer. As a result some women are going for something natural, for something that has no chemicals, no side effects and a surprisingly low risk of pregnancy.
Years back abstinence that is having no sexual intercourse was practiced by many. They did have sex when they wanted but kept them away from having sex during the days of ovulation in a woman. They called it the “rhythm cycle”. A woman would know that she is most likely to get pregnant by observing her own body and menstrual cycle. This method is still used in today’s omodern world known as FAM (fertility awareness method) that help women to know when ovulation is coming and is likely to get pregnant and as such refrain from sexual intercourse. Although such technique is not dangerous it is not 100 % effective. But there are some old methods that cause great damage and can even cause death.
In third world countries where use of contraceptives is not common, people use methods that are dangerous and ineffective. They also use herbal supplements for birth control that might have severe side effects. Although not all herbal birth supplements are harmful yet there is some risk associated unless one does not have complete knowledge about it. The use of natural supplements which has some extracts from plants does not mean that they are 100% safe. Such natural supplements can cause some allergies and other problems. Therefore it is always recommended to go for the modern methods of birth control and if you opt for natural method then there should be complete knowledge of the natural supplement. You should be aware of the risk factrs associated with it and should not be used blindly.
Birth Control
Both males and females should take responsibility when they become parents. They should be aware that they are bringing a new life into this world. But when men and women are not ready to take the responsibility then they should go for birth control methods.
It has been reported that every year in United States there are about 3.6 million unplanned pregnancies. Out of these half of them happen because the couples do not use any birth control method and other half who do use the birth control methods do not use them correctly.
If you plan for a birth control method then before you start with the methods it is best to take the advice of the doctor as each method of birth control has its own pros and cons. If you do not like one method you can always try the other method.
Gaining knowledge about birth control methods is important because all the methods have their own advantages and disadvantages. Moreover there is no best method of birth control as no method prevents pregnancy all the time. There are always chances of getting pregnant.
Generally females get pregnant because of the following reasons-
When a female gets semen which is a fluid released by a man’s penis inside or just around her vagina. The semen contains the sperm. Pre cum that leak out of the man’s erect penis can also contain sperm and cause pregnancy. When girls and boys have sex and neither of them uses contraception.
To make it easy and simple the birth control methods either prevents a man’s sperm to enter from reaching a woman’s egg or preventing the fertilized egg from implanting in the woman’s uterus and starting to grow.
If you plan for a birth control method then before you start with the methods it is best to take the advice of the doctor as each method of birth control has its own pros and cons. If you do not like one method you can always try the other method.
The only way not get pregnant is practicing abstinence. That is not to have sex at all. This is the only best and 100% guaranteed method on not getting pregnant. But this is hard to follow and not possible for most of the couples.
Gaining knowledge about birth control methods is important because all the methods have their own advantages and disadvantages. Moreover there is no best method of birth control as no method prevents pregnancy all the time. There are always chances of getting pregnant.
Before you plan to take birth control methods there are things to be taken into account such as your overall health, the number of sexual partners you have, how often you have sex, if you want to have children and your comfort level with using the method.
Apart from the natural way of birth control, abstinence, that is refraining yourself from sex there are other artificial methods too.
The first type is the barrier method. It physically prevents the sperm from entering the uterus of the woman and thus prevents the fertilizing the women’s egg. The barrier method means the use of condoms. There are more advantages of barrier methods such as they are available widely worldwide and if used properly they provide effective protection against sexually transmitted diseases.
The second type is the hormonal method that alters a woman’s hormonal cycle to prevent fertilization. This method signifies the use of pills. Most of the birth control pills work to prevent ovulation, which means that it prevents the release of an egg by the ovaries. You have to take a pill everyday for the results. There are certain side effects of birth control pills such as headaches, breast swelling, nausea, weight gain and depression.
There is yet another type of contraception which includes IUD, intrauterine device which is generally not recommended for young women who have had no children.
We should keep in mind that most of the birth control methods do not protect you from HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases(STDs) such as gonorrhea and herpes. The best way to protect you from HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases is using latex condom. The female condom may give some protection against STD.
It has been reported that every year in United States there are about 3.6 million unplanned pregnancies. Out of these half of them happen because the couples do not use any birth control method and other half who do use the birth control methods do not use them correctly.
If you plan for a birth control method then before you start with the methods it is best to take the advice of the doctor as each method of birth control has its own pros and cons. If you do not like one method you can always try the other method.
Gaining knowledge about birth control methods is important because all the methods have their own advantages and disadvantages. Moreover there is no best method of birth control as no method prevents pregnancy all the time. There are always chances of getting pregnant.
Generally females get pregnant because of the following reasons-
When a female gets semen which is a fluid released by a man’s penis inside or just around her vagina. The semen contains the sperm. Pre cum that leak out of the man’s erect penis can also contain sperm and cause pregnancy. When girls and boys have sex and neither of them uses contraception.
To make it easy and simple the birth control methods either prevents a man’s sperm to enter from reaching a woman’s egg or preventing the fertilized egg from implanting in the woman’s uterus and starting to grow.
If you plan for a birth control method then before you start with the methods it is best to take the advice of the doctor as each method of birth control has its own pros and cons. If you do not like one method you can always try the other method.
The only way not get pregnant is practicing abstinence. That is not to have sex at all. This is the only best and 100% guaranteed method on not getting pregnant. But this is hard to follow and not possible for most of the couples.
Gaining knowledge about birth control methods is important because all the methods have their own advantages and disadvantages. Moreover there is no best method of birth control as no method prevents pregnancy all the time. There are always chances of getting pregnant.
Before you plan to take birth control methods there are things to be taken into account such as your overall health, the number of sexual partners you have, how often you have sex, if you want to have children and your comfort level with using the method.
Apart from the natural way of birth control, abstinence, that is refraining yourself from sex there are other artificial methods too.
The first type is the barrier method. It physically prevents the sperm from entering the uterus of the woman and thus prevents the fertilizing the women’s egg. The barrier method means the use of condoms. There are more advantages of barrier methods such as they are available widely worldwide and if used properly they provide effective protection against sexually transmitted diseases.
The second type is the hormonal method that alters a woman’s hormonal cycle to prevent fertilization. This method signifies the use of pills. Most of the birth control pills work to prevent ovulation, which means that it prevents the release of an egg by the ovaries. You have to take a pill everyday for the results. There are certain side effects of birth control pills such as headaches, breast swelling, nausea, weight gain and depression.
There is yet another type of contraception which includes IUD, intrauterine device which is generally not recommended for young women who have had no children.
We should keep in mind that most of the birth control methods do not protect you from HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases(STDs) such as gonorrhea and herpes. The best way to protect you from HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases is using latex condom. The female condom may give some protection against STD.
Birth Control While Breastfeeding
A woman can get pregnant when she is nursing. If you want to prevent pregnancy while nursing, you have a few options for birth control.
Sex After Childbirth
It used to be that women were advised to not have sex until six weeks after they gave birth, at their six week check-up. If you feel comfortable with this, then you can wait. However, the vagina typically heals after two weeks or so, and the cervix will also be closed after two weeks. If you haven’t had any complications, you can have sex as early as two weeks after you give birth. Ask your doctor if there are any reasons you shouldn’t. You might not want to have sex after you give birth: a woman’s hormones change dramatically after being pregnant, and sometimes they are not as sexually charged. If you are interested in sex, know that you could be fertile again as soon as two weeks after you have your baby. Be aware of this and choose your contraception wisely.
Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM)
This is sometimes also called the breastfeeding method. This is the method that has some people confused as to whether or not you can get pregnant while you are nursing. If you choose to nurse your baby and to not give your baby other milk, you can postpone your fertility.
This means you feed your baby every four hours (from both breasts). In the night, you have to feed your baby at least every six hours.
You can only use this method if you are nursing and if you haven’t had a period since your baby was born. This method only works for six months after the baby is born, and then you have to use another method.
Barrier Methods
Barrier methods of birth control won’t harm your nursing infant. These include condoms, female condoms, sponges, and prescription barrier based methods. With many prescription barrier methods, you have to wait until six to eight weeks after delivery: these include diaphragms, cervical caps, and shields.
If you are using a barrier based method with a spermicide, be sure that your vagina has healed thoroughly before using spermicide and having sex.
Hormonal Methods
You cannot take a combination hormone treatment (one that has estrogen, or ethinyl estradiol, in it) if you are nursing. This means that you cannot take combination pills, you can’t wear the Patch, and you can’t use a Vaginal Ring. The estrogen will be found in your breastmilk and affect your baby, and will also affect your milk supply.
You can, however, use progestin-only methods of birth control. This includes progestin-only pills, which are sometimes called mini-pills, Depo-Provera, and Mirena, a hormonal IUD (intrauterine device). Many doctors claim that progestins are too large to pass into breastmilk and will not affect your baby.
Other doctors, however, are wary about using progestin-only birth control. Dr. Cindy McClain Pearman, a family practice physician from Knoxville, Tennessee, claims that “Mini-pills and Depo are not supposed to affect [milk] supply, but I have seen it happen often, especially with the mini-pill.”
If you feel uncertain about using hormonal birth control methods, you can always choose another form of birth control, be it abstinence, a barrier method, or a fertility awareness method.
IUDs: IntraUterine Devices
You can use a copper IUD while you are nursing; it will not affect your breastmilk. An IUD is a device that is inserted by your doctor. It means that you won’t be able to conceive until you have it removed by a professional. Often, women who have just given birth report easier IUD insertions.
Fertility Awareness Methods
You can choose to track your fertility after your baby is born. This cannot happen until you have your first period. To learn about tracking your fertility, you will need to speak to an expert: ask your doctor, or local clinic, or women’s group. You will have to abstain from sex on your unsafe days, or plan to use a back-up method.
Having just had a baby can be a magical (but tiring) experience. Family planning can benefit you, your partner, and your baby. Choose the option that seems right for you.
Sex After Childbirth
It used to be that women were advised to not have sex until six weeks after they gave birth, at their six week check-up. If you feel comfortable with this, then you can wait. However, the vagina typically heals after two weeks or so, and the cervix will also be closed after two weeks. If you haven’t had any complications, you can have sex as early as two weeks after you give birth. Ask your doctor if there are any reasons you shouldn’t. You might not want to have sex after you give birth: a woman’s hormones change dramatically after being pregnant, and sometimes they are not as sexually charged. If you are interested in sex, know that you could be fertile again as soon as two weeks after you have your baby. Be aware of this and choose your contraception wisely.
Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM)
This is sometimes also called the breastfeeding method. This is the method that has some people confused as to whether or not you can get pregnant while you are nursing. If you choose to nurse your baby and to not give your baby other milk, you can postpone your fertility.
This means you feed your baby every four hours (from both breasts). In the night, you have to feed your baby at least every six hours.
You can only use this method if you are nursing and if you haven’t had a period since your baby was born. This method only works for six months after the baby is born, and then you have to use another method.
Barrier Methods
Barrier methods of birth control won’t harm your nursing infant. These include condoms, female condoms, sponges, and prescription barrier based methods. With many prescription barrier methods, you have to wait until six to eight weeks after delivery: these include diaphragms, cervical caps, and shields.
If you are using a barrier based method with a spermicide, be sure that your vagina has healed thoroughly before using spermicide and having sex.
Hormonal Methods
You cannot take a combination hormone treatment (one that has estrogen, or ethinyl estradiol, in it) if you are nursing. This means that you cannot take combination pills, you can’t wear the Patch, and you can’t use a Vaginal Ring. The estrogen will be found in your breastmilk and affect your baby, and will also affect your milk supply.
You can, however, use progestin-only methods of birth control. This includes progestin-only pills, which are sometimes called mini-pills, Depo-Provera, and Mirena, a hormonal IUD (intrauterine device). Many doctors claim that progestins are too large to pass into breastmilk and will not affect your baby.
Other doctors, however, are wary about using progestin-only birth control. Dr. Cindy McClain Pearman, a family practice physician from Knoxville, Tennessee, claims that “Mini-pills and Depo are not supposed to affect [milk] supply, but I have seen it happen often, especially with the mini-pill.”
If you feel uncertain about using hormonal birth control methods, you can always choose another form of birth control, be it abstinence, a barrier method, or a fertility awareness method.
IUDs: IntraUterine Devices
You can use a copper IUD while you are nursing; it will not affect your breastmilk. An IUD is a device that is inserted by your doctor. It means that you won’t be able to conceive until you have it removed by a professional. Often, women who have just given birth report easier IUD insertions.
Fertility Awareness Methods
You can choose to track your fertility after your baby is born. This cannot happen until you have your first period. To learn about tracking your fertility, you will need to speak to an expert: ask your doctor, or local clinic, or women’s group. You will have to abstain from sex on your unsafe days, or plan to use a back-up method.
Having just had a baby can be a magical (but tiring) experience. Family planning can benefit you, your partner, and your baby. Choose the option that seems right for you.
Natural Birth Control
Natural birth control is one of the most widely used methods of fertility regulation. Some religions and cultural beliefs do not permit artificial birth control devices or drugs. The natural birth control method is more acceptable to these people. This method includes a periodic abstinence, with couples avoiding sexual intercourse during the woman's fertile period.
The rhythm method or calendar method, standard days method, sympto-thermal method, and withdrawal method are some of the natural birth control methods.
In the rhythm method, sexual intercourse takes place based on three assumptions. The first is that ovulation occurs fourteen days before the beginning of menstruation. This method also relies upon the fact that the sperm will remain viable for three days and that the ovum survives for twenty-four hours. With these theories in mind, women can decide on the days of abstinence. The standard day method replaced the rhythm method over a period of time. In the standard day method, the first day of a period is considered as day one. Women can have unprotected sex from day one to day seven. From days eight to nineteen, they should avoid sex. From day twenty to the next period, they can again have unprotected intercourse.
Withdrawal is a method of natural birth control in which the man withdraws his penis from the woman's vagina before ejaculation. This method does not always work because the man must have enough control to withdraw in time. The Sympto-thermal method is also an effective natural birth control method. Women using this method should keep track of their cervical mucus signs, their waking or basal body temperatures, and their menstrual cycle histories. In this method, the mucus detected date is noted first. The end of the fertile period is determined based on the basal body temperature. Intercourse can be resumed as the temperature rises. The temperature begins to rise one to two days after ovulation and corresponds to the rising level of progesterone.
Natural birth control methods allow a woman to have an understanding of her body. These methods have no side effects. Natural birth control methods do not require the use of drugs or chemicals. Compared with other birth control methods, a natural birth control method is inexpensive. Such methods can also be used to achieve pregnancy. Natural birth control methods require discipline and systematic charting. This is most suitable for women with regular and predictable menstrual cycles.
The rhythm method or calendar method, standard days method, sympto-thermal method, and withdrawal method are some of the natural birth control methods.
In the rhythm method, sexual intercourse takes place based on three assumptions. The first is that ovulation occurs fourteen days before the beginning of menstruation. This method also relies upon the fact that the sperm will remain viable for three days and that the ovum survives for twenty-four hours. With these theories in mind, women can decide on the days of abstinence. The standard day method replaced the rhythm method over a period of time. In the standard day method, the first day of a period is considered as day one. Women can have unprotected sex from day one to day seven. From days eight to nineteen, they should avoid sex. From day twenty to the next period, they can again have unprotected intercourse.
Withdrawal is a method of natural birth control in which the man withdraws his penis from the woman's vagina before ejaculation. This method does not always work because the man must have enough control to withdraw in time. The Sympto-thermal method is also an effective natural birth control method. Women using this method should keep track of their cervical mucus signs, their waking or basal body temperatures, and their menstrual cycle histories. In this method, the mucus detected date is noted first. The end of the fertile period is determined based on the basal body temperature. Intercourse can be resumed as the temperature rises. The temperature begins to rise one to two days after ovulation and corresponds to the rising level of progesterone.
Natural birth control methods allow a woman to have an understanding of her body. These methods have no side effects. Natural birth control methods do not require the use of drugs or chemicals. Compared with other birth control methods, a natural birth control method is inexpensive. Such methods can also be used to achieve pregnancy. Natural birth control methods require discipline and systematic charting. This is most suitable for women with regular and predictable menstrual cycles.
Dog Birth Control - Dog Birth Control Pills, Dog Condoms, And Many Other Birth Control Methods!
Who would have thought that there is dog birth control? Before becoming interested in the topic, I too was clueless that such a thing even existed! Being a dog lover, it breaks my heart to go to local pounds and animal shelters and see hundreds of dogs locked up in cages without a loving family. Every dog and puppy needs a loving, caring family to take care of it and play with it, giving it the attention it deserves. This is where dog birth control comes to into play.
If you're like me, you consider your dog to be part of the family, especially if he has been around for a few years. Most dog lovers (myself included) see their pooch as another son or daughter. And just like homeless children and overpopulation is a problem troubling the world today, an overpopulation of dogs is an issue just as serious.
Every hour in the United States, 2000 dogs are born. A majority of these dogs end up abandoned or dead because of uncontrolled breeding and overpopulation. The price is adding up too: American taxpayers are paying around $230 million for animal control agencies to cope with this problem. The solution? Killing all unwanted, homeless dogs!
Breeding dogs is serious business, and if you are considering it, you should know the facts. Research your dogs breed and learn the proper breeding methods. However, if you are NOT considering breeding your dogs and would like to prevent your beloved puppy from having a bunch of cute puppies, then you should look into dog birth control. Just like human birth control methods, there are actually dog birth control pills, dog condoms and other methods to prevent female dogs from going into heat!
There are also birth control options for male dogs. Dog condoms are increasing in popularity and are in most tests, are about as effective as human counterparts. They come in sizes designed to fit small, medium, and large breed dogs. The condoms are available in meat scented and lubricated to increase pleasure for both dogs. The first dog condoms were to set to appear in most major pet stores in fall of 2005. Currently there is a female condom being designed as well which is set to hit the shelves sometime in 2007.
As always, consult your veterinarian first so that they can examine your dog and determine the proper and most effective method of birth control! Remember to put the healthy and safety of your pet first before using birth control!
Another great option for controlling unwanted dog births is to spay or neauter your pet. Although many will disagree, spaying and neutering your dog has many benefits and will make for a happier, calmer, family friendly dog. Not to mention the fact that by spaying and neutering you dog you are preventing the birth of unwanted puppies. By doing this, the main focus of the dog's life will be his/her human family.
A lot of people out there against this for the reason that it is "cruel" or "inhumane". Well, it is just as cruel and inhumane to let dogs roam endlessly, producing millions of unwanted puppies whose only fate will be death because of overpopulation. It is just like failing to educate our teenagers about proper birth control safety methods. There are millions of babies born each year to mothers who aren't ready to have a child, and so they end up put up for adoption, in shelters or foster homes.
I honestly see no difference in these two scenarios. Dogs are living, breathing beings and should be treated with respect. Spaying and neutering may seem cruel, but for the fact alone that prevents many health problems should be enough to convince any dog lover. No one actually enjoys seeing their dog suffer, spaying and neutering can put an end to that.
Animal shelters do what they can to connect homeless dogs with a home, but there are far too many dogs and far too few homes for all of them. It's a tragedy that we're allowing these dogs to be born only to turn our heads when they are put to death. Be responsible! Have your dog spayed or neutered, and invest in dog birth control if necessary. It is truly the only way to control the dog population, and have a happy, healthy, family oriented dog for life!
If you're like me, you consider your dog to be part of the family, especially if he has been around for a few years. Most dog lovers (myself included) see their pooch as another son or daughter. And just like homeless children and overpopulation is a problem troubling the world today, an overpopulation of dogs is an issue just as serious.
Every hour in the United States, 2000 dogs are born. A majority of these dogs end up abandoned or dead because of uncontrolled breeding and overpopulation. The price is adding up too: American taxpayers are paying around $230 million for animal control agencies to cope with this problem. The solution? Killing all unwanted, homeless dogs!
Breeding dogs is serious business, and if you are considering it, you should know the facts. Research your dogs breed and learn the proper breeding methods. However, if you are NOT considering breeding your dogs and would like to prevent your beloved puppy from having a bunch of cute puppies, then you should look into dog birth control. Just like human birth control methods, there are actually dog birth control pills, dog condoms and other methods to prevent female dogs from going into heat!
There are also birth control options for male dogs. Dog condoms are increasing in popularity and are in most tests, are about as effective as human counterparts. They come in sizes designed to fit small, medium, and large breed dogs. The condoms are available in meat scented and lubricated to increase pleasure for both dogs. The first dog condoms were to set to appear in most major pet stores in fall of 2005. Currently there is a female condom being designed as well which is set to hit the shelves sometime in 2007.
As always, consult your veterinarian first so that they can examine your dog and determine the proper and most effective method of birth control! Remember to put the healthy and safety of your pet first before using birth control!
Another great option for controlling unwanted dog births is to spay or neauter your pet. Although many will disagree, spaying and neutering your dog has many benefits and will make for a happier, calmer, family friendly dog. Not to mention the fact that by spaying and neutering you dog you are preventing the birth of unwanted puppies. By doing this, the main focus of the dog's life will be his/her human family.
A lot of people out there against this for the reason that it is "cruel" or "inhumane". Well, it is just as cruel and inhumane to let dogs roam endlessly, producing millions of unwanted puppies whose only fate will be death because of overpopulation. It is just like failing to educate our teenagers about proper birth control safety methods. There are millions of babies born each year to mothers who aren't ready to have a child, and so they end up put up for adoption, in shelters or foster homes.
I honestly see no difference in these two scenarios. Dogs are living, breathing beings and should be treated with respect. Spaying and neutering may seem cruel, but for the fact alone that prevents many health problems should be enough to convince any dog lover. No one actually enjoys seeing their dog suffer, spaying and neutering can put an end to that.
Animal shelters do what they can to connect homeless dogs with a home, but there are far too many dogs and far too few homes for all of them. It's a tragedy that we're allowing these dogs to be born only to turn our heads when they are put to death. Be responsible! Have your dog spayed or neutered, and invest in dog birth control if necessary. It is truly the only way to control the dog population, and have a happy, healthy, family oriented dog for life!
An Introduction To Birth Control
The dictionary defines birth control as “a regimen of one or more actions, devices, or medications followed in order to deliberately prevent or reduce the likelihood of a woman becoming pregnant.” Birth control has become imperative in today’s world, due to the global rise in population, need for family planning and also to safeguard oneself from unwanted pregnancy.
There are various methods of birth control that one can adopt, including the withdrawal method, or coitus interruptus; barrier methods like condom, diaphragm, cervical cap or contraceptive sponge; chemical methods like contraceptive pills, contraceptive patch, or the progesterone-only pill (POP); intrauterine methods; fertility awareness methods and more. Other than the preventive methods, one can also adopt abortion methods like surgical abortions, chemical abortions and herbal abortifacients to end unwanted pregnancies. Some permanent birth control solutions are surgical sterilization, which includes tubal ligation for women and vasectomy for men.
Although there are many alternate methods of birth control available in the market, the most commonly used methods are contraceptive pills and condoms. Contraceptive pills or oral contraceptives consist of a pill with doses of synthetic hormones like progestin or estrogen, taken orally by a woman to prevent pregnancy. The contraceptive pills are considered to be a reliable mode of preventing pregnancy, but can sometimes also result in certain side effects like obesity, headaches or depression in some women. Condoms were traditionally manufactured for men but now are available for female users. Condoms serve a dual function, as they not only help in avoiding pregnancy but also prevent sexually transmitted diseases like HIV/AIDS.
In Canada and the US, contraceptive patches are also fast gaining popularity. A woman applies contraceptive patches on her skin for a week, and they release synthetic hormones to prevent pregnancy. They act in the same manner as contraceptive pills. Contraceptive patches in Canada and US are sold under the brand name Ortho Evra, and are sold only by prescription.
With the advances in science and technology, we might witness new innovations in birth control methods; however, in order to choose the right mode of birth control one must consult one’s doctor.
There are various methods of birth control that one can adopt, including the withdrawal method, or coitus interruptus; barrier methods like condom, diaphragm, cervical cap or contraceptive sponge; chemical methods like contraceptive pills, contraceptive patch, or the progesterone-only pill (POP); intrauterine methods; fertility awareness methods and more. Other than the preventive methods, one can also adopt abortion methods like surgical abortions, chemical abortions and herbal abortifacients to end unwanted pregnancies. Some permanent birth control solutions are surgical sterilization, which includes tubal ligation for women and vasectomy for men.
Although there are many alternate methods of birth control available in the market, the most commonly used methods are contraceptive pills and condoms. Contraceptive pills or oral contraceptives consist of a pill with doses of synthetic hormones like progestin or estrogen, taken orally by a woman to prevent pregnancy. The contraceptive pills are considered to be a reliable mode of preventing pregnancy, but can sometimes also result in certain side effects like obesity, headaches or depression in some women. Condoms were traditionally manufactured for men but now are available for female users. Condoms serve a dual function, as they not only help in avoiding pregnancy but also prevent sexually transmitted diseases like HIV/AIDS.
In Canada and the US, contraceptive patches are also fast gaining popularity. A woman applies contraceptive patches on her skin for a week, and they release synthetic hormones to prevent pregnancy. They act in the same manner as contraceptive pills. Contraceptive patches in Canada and US are sold under the brand name Ortho Evra, and are sold only by prescription.
With the advances in science and technology, we might witness new innovations in birth control methods; however, in order to choose the right mode of birth control one must consult one’s doctor.
A Rundown On The Birth Control Methods
With the population boom in recent years, many countries have pushed for the use of birth control to help curb the increase in population. There are many types of birth control methods that families can use, depending on what the couple are most comfortable with.
Hormonal Methods
One of the methods of controlling birth that is available in the market is the hormonal method, which targets hormones and their effects on the body’s fertility. Some of the most common hormonal methods are the use of birth control pills and birth control shots, skin patches and the vaginal ring. This method actually works quite as it prevents the production of eggs. As a big bonus, these methods can also help relieve pain and cramps during monthly periods and can relieve heavy flows.
There are also Intrauterine devices (IUDs) that contain hormones called Minera. IUDs, however, are more expensive as they can last for years, sometimes lasting for more than 5 years. IUDs , although expensive, is highly recommended as these have 99 percent success rates. And because you only have to pay once over a period of five to 10 years, the total cost of birth control is actually much cheaper compared to other forms of birth controls. Another thing that adds to its appeal is that IUDs do not interrupt foreplay during sexual intercourse or foreplay and they do not require the cooperation of the sexual partner. It has also been found that IUDs can also be used while breastfeeding.
One disadvantage though of hormonal method besides the cost is you have to take the pills or the medications religiously. One relapse can mean ineffectiveness of the birth control method. They are also not ample protection against sexually-transmitted diseases unlike condoms and other barrier method instruments. Another disadvantage is that it can react differently when taken in with other medications. This is why people should first consult the gynecologists for medications that may affect its effectiveness.
Barrier Method
Barrier methods, on the other hand, are generally less effective than the hormonal methods although they seem to be the most widely-used especially among the younger set. Among the devices that belong to these group of birth control instruments are condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps, and sponges. There are also Lea’s shield and spermicides, which when used with any of the barrier devices can help increase the effectiveness by killing the sperms. Still, one advantage of barrier method is that it protects both individuals from sexually-transmitted diseases. In fact, some people use condoms not to prevent pregnancy but to prevent the spread of diseases.
Calendar method
Natural birth control methods can also be done through the calendar method. This can be tough work though for the couple. The woman must first determine the fertile periods of the month. The couple must then avoid having sex on the days that the woman is most fertile to avoid conceiving. This however is not reliable and must be calculated to the letter before it can be effective. The calendar method is actually the only method supported by the Catholic Church, which takes a pro-life stand.
Sterilization surgery
Permanent birth control methods such as vasectomy and tubal litigation surgery are also options for the couple but they must remember that they can no longer have children when they have these procedures performed on them. These methods are actually for couples who are old or those who already have children and feel that they should not have anymore.
Hormonal Methods
One of the methods of controlling birth that is available in the market is the hormonal method, which targets hormones and their effects on the body’s fertility. Some of the most common hormonal methods are the use of birth control pills and birth control shots, skin patches and the vaginal ring. This method actually works quite as it prevents the production of eggs. As a big bonus, these methods can also help relieve pain and cramps during monthly periods and can relieve heavy flows.
There are also Intrauterine devices (IUDs) that contain hormones called Minera. IUDs, however, are more expensive as they can last for years, sometimes lasting for more than 5 years. IUDs , although expensive, is highly recommended as these have 99 percent success rates. And because you only have to pay once over a period of five to 10 years, the total cost of birth control is actually much cheaper compared to other forms of birth controls. Another thing that adds to its appeal is that IUDs do not interrupt foreplay during sexual intercourse or foreplay and they do not require the cooperation of the sexual partner. It has also been found that IUDs can also be used while breastfeeding.
One disadvantage though of hormonal method besides the cost is you have to take the pills or the medications religiously. One relapse can mean ineffectiveness of the birth control method. They are also not ample protection against sexually-transmitted diseases unlike condoms and other barrier method instruments. Another disadvantage is that it can react differently when taken in with other medications. This is why people should first consult the gynecologists for medications that may affect its effectiveness.
Barrier Method
Barrier methods, on the other hand, are generally less effective than the hormonal methods although they seem to be the most widely-used especially among the younger set. Among the devices that belong to these group of birth control instruments are condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps, and sponges. There are also Lea’s shield and spermicides, which when used with any of the barrier devices can help increase the effectiveness by killing the sperms. Still, one advantage of barrier method is that it protects both individuals from sexually-transmitted diseases. In fact, some people use condoms not to prevent pregnancy but to prevent the spread of diseases.
Calendar method
Natural birth control methods can also be done through the calendar method. This can be tough work though for the couple. The woman must first determine the fertile periods of the month. The couple must then avoid having sex on the days that the woman is most fertile to avoid conceiving. This however is not reliable and must be calculated to the letter before it can be effective. The calendar method is actually the only method supported by the Catholic Church, which takes a pro-life stand.
Sterilization surgery
Permanent birth control methods such as vasectomy and tubal litigation surgery are also options for the couple but they must remember that they can no longer have children when they have these procedures performed on them. These methods are actually for couples who are old or those who already have children and feel that they should not have anymore.
The History of Birth Control
Many of these methods had nothing to do with sexual intercourse or the act of conceiving a baby and, obviously, had little if any effect on birth control. Such methods were dances, amulets and rituals. Some methods, however, even if they were used without any knowledge about how to get pregnant, were ancient modifications of modern methods of birth control used even today.
In the times when pregnancy was believed to be controlled by spirits, the moon or the sun, rituals, myths, dances and amulets were popular means to control fertility. Those were the times when pregnancy and childbirth were dangerous to women’s lives. The death rate during childbirth or after it was high, and women tried to avoid pregnancy especially when they had already many children. The birth control methods were passed on from woman to woman quietly. It is known that in cultures where the moon was believed to be the power of conception, women tended to sleep out of the reach of moonlight in order to avoid pregnancy. In some other cultures throwing corn kernels, apples, or nails into a well or springing at a magical hour was believed to help a woman to stay un-pregnant for a month. Another ritual that was thought to help prevent unwanted pregnancy was walking over graves of dead female ancestors.
Ancient Roman women put a leather pouch filled with cat’s liver on their left foot during sexual intercourse to prevent pregnancy. Some women believed that spitting three times into a frog’s mouth was a good method of birth control. European women thought that they could prevent pregnancy by turning backwards a wheel of a mill at midnight. And in many cultures women constantly wore various necklaces and amulets, which were supposed to have the power of controlling the act of conception.
Some time later natural family planning techniques came into the minds of ancient women. The rhythm method, known and used by some women even nowadays, was introduced by a Greek gynecologist Soranus in the second century CE. He suggested that women should avoid sex during the days when ovulation occurred because he thought they were then most fertile. However, he was absolutely wrong assuming that ovulation occurred during the days of menstrual bleeding. In addition to the rhythm method, Soranus advised women to hold the breath and draw their bodies back during sex in order to stop the sperm from entering a woman’s body. He also suggested a woman to jump backwards seven times after sexual intercourse or sit down on bent knees to cause sneezing. These methods had no scientific basis and thus were not effective in birth control.
Another method, with the knowledge of ovulation and its effect on conception was continuous breast-feeding until a child was three years old. Somehow women knew that breast-feeding had to prevent ovulation and therefore they were not able to conceive.
The only method that had then and still has now a hundred percent efficiency in birth control was abstinence. Therefore many women had joined the monasteries and became nuns. For other women complete abstinence was not possible on a long-term basis but some religions and ethical groups had periods when sex was prohibited, such as during Lent or different religious or ethical holidays. However, these had no effect on birth control.
One of the oldest birth control methods, that had something to do with the knowledge of how women became pregnant, was used in Egypt around 1500 BC. It is thought to be the oldest contraceptive. Suppositories made out of crocodile dung or honey, were used by women. It was believed that the sticky substance could stop the white fluid from a man entering a woman’s body. This probably only discouraged a man from having sexual intercourse with a woman who used these suppositories.
Nowadays medical progress and modern technologies have made a lot of differences in sexual lives of men and women. Women have a lot of birth control methods they can choose these days in order to protect against pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. Scientists are about to introduce a new method of contraception for men – the male birth control pill. However, there are a lot of people in the world today, who still use various old birth control methods to avoid unexpected pregnancies. How far have we really come from ancient times?
In the times when pregnancy was believed to be controlled by spirits, the moon or the sun, rituals, myths, dances and amulets were popular means to control fertility. Those were the times when pregnancy and childbirth were dangerous to women’s lives. The death rate during childbirth or after it was high, and women tried to avoid pregnancy especially when they had already many children. The birth control methods were passed on from woman to woman quietly. It is known that in cultures where the moon was believed to be the power of conception, women tended to sleep out of the reach of moonlight in order to avoid pregnancy. In some other cultures throwing corn kernels, apples, or nails into a well or springing at a magical hour was believed to help a woman to stay un-pregnant for a month. Another ritual that was thought to help prevent unwanted pregnancy was walking over graves of dead female ancestors.
Ancient Roman women put a leather pouch filled with cat’s liver on their left foot during sexual intercourse to prevent pregnancy. Some women believed that spitting three times into a frog’s mouth was a good method of birth control. European women thought that they could prevent pregnancy by turning backwards a wheel of a mill at midnight. And in many cultures women constantly wore various necklaces and amulets, which were supposed to have the power of controlling the act of conception.
Some time later natural family planning techniques came into the minds of ancient women. The rhythm method, known and used by some women even nowadays, was introduced by a Greek gynecologist Soranus in the second century CE. He suggested that women should avoid sex during the days when ovulation occurred because he thought they were then most fertile. However, he was absolutely wrong assuming that ovulation occurred during the days of menstrual bleeding. In addition to the rhythm method, Soranus advised women to hold the breath and draw their bodies back during sex in order to stop the sperm from entering a woman’s body. He also suggested a woman to jump backwards seven times after sexual intercourse or sit down on bent knees to cause sneezing. These methods had no scientific basis and thus were not effective in birth control.
Another method, with the knowledge of ovulation and its effect on conception was continuous breast-feeding until a child was three years old. Somehow women knew that breast-feeding had to prevent ovulation and therefore they were not able to conceive.
The only method that had then and still has now a hundred percent efficiency in birth control was abstinence. Therefore many women had joined the monasteries and became nuns. For other women complete abstinence was not possible on a long-term basis but some religions and ethical groups had periods when sex was prohibited, such as during Lent or different religious or ethical holidays. However, these had no effect on birth control.
One of the oldest birth control methods, that had something to do with the knowledge of how women became pregnant, was used in Egypt around 1500 BC. It is thought to be the oldest contraceptive. Suppositories made out of crocodile dung or honey, were used by women. It was believed that the sticky substance could stop the white fluid from a man entering a woman’s body. This probably only discouraged a man from having sexual intercourse with a woman who used these suppositories.
Nowadays medical progress and modern technologies have made a lot of differences in sexual lives of men and women. Women have a lot of birth control methods they can choose these days in order to protect against pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. Scientists are about to introduce a new method of contraception for men – the male birth control pill. However, there are a lot of people in the world today, who still use various old birth control methods to avoid unexpected pregnancies. How far have we really come from ancient times?
The Latest Birth Control Devices and Methods
Without a doubt, even as we speak, there are many different types of birth control devices and methods being developed today. Birth control is a very important part of family planning and with the rate of unwanted pregnancies and occurrence of teenage sex, the many different types of birth control devices and methods should be introduced as early on to teens as possible.
For example, there’s the barrier method of birth control which includes devices like diaphragms, cervical caps and shields that ultimately works by covering up the cervix so that sperm cannot enter the uterus during sexual intercourse. When the sperm cannot enter the uterus, the egg cannot be fertilized by the sperm. The barrier method is not 100% foolproof, although none of the birth control methods and devices are ever 100% secure so, in order to achieve its full potential, usage of the barrier type of birth control should be used together with an effective form of spermicidal application which kills off sperm that enters the body. Spermicidal applications are available in varying types, i.e., cream, foam or gel form.
The most common and most effective form of birth control remains to be the hormonal types of birth control which includes the varying types of birth control pills, injections and patches available in the market. They are excellent ways for birth control but some people are not able to use the oral contraceptive type of birth control or prefer not to use them. In that case, they may have to use other forms of birth control in the market.
Talking about spermicides, there is something called the contraceptive sponge that is somewhat like a foam or sponge that one inserts into the body of the female to cover the cervix area. The foam contains sperm-killing chemicals that kill of sperms that enter the body. Not only do contraceptive sponges block the sperm from entering the cervix, it also doubles up as spermicide, working as a 2-in-1 birth control device.
In recognizing the need for an urgent or emergency birth control device, there is something called the ‘emergency contraceptive’ that is available off the counter in most pharmacies, hospitals and clinics. The emergency birth control device is useful to women who forgot to take their oral birth control, is forced to have unprotected sex, or used birth control methods but it did not work (condom breaking). The emergency birth control works by stopping the ovaries from releasing eggs, stopping fertilization of the egg when the sperm has entered the body and it also stops the fertilized egg from attaching itself to the wall of the uterus.
For example, there’s the barrier method of birth control which includes devices like diaphragms, cervical caps and shields that ultimately works by covering up the cervix so that sperm cannot enter the uterus during sexual intercourse. When the sperm cannot enter the uterus, the egg cannot be fertilized by the sperm. The barrier method is not 100% foolproof, although none of the birth control methods and devices are ever 100% secure so, in order to achieve its full potential, usage of the barrier type of birth control should be used together with an effective form of spermicidal application which kills off sperm that enters the body. Spermicidal applications are available in varying types, i.e., cream, foam or gel form.
The most common and most effective form of birth control remains to be the hormonal types of birth control which includes the varying types of birth control pills, injections and patches available in the market. They are excellent ways for birth control but some people are not able to use the oral contraceptive type of birth control or prefer not to use them. In that case, they may have to use other forms of birth control in the market.
Talking about spermicides, there is something called the contraceptive sponge that is somewhat like a foam or sponge that one inserts into the body of the female to cover the cervix area. The foam contains sperm-killing chemicals that kill of sperms that enter the body. Not only do contraceptive sponges block the sperm from entering the cervix, it also doubles up as spermicide, working as a 2-in-1 birth control device.
In recognizing the need for an urgent or emergency birth control device, there is something called the ‘emergency contraceptive’ that is available off the counter in most pharmacies, hospitals and clinics. The emergency birth control device is useful to women who forgot to take their oral birth control, is forced to have unprotected sex, or used birth control methods but it did not work (condom breaking). The emergency birth control works by stopping the ovaries from releasing eggs, stopping fertilization of the egg when the sperm has entered the body and it also stops the fertilized egg from attaching itself to the wall of the uterus.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)