5 Common Contraceptive Methods for Women: Which Birth Control is Right for You?

As per World Health Organization in 2021, more than a billion women in the world needed family planning. Women need contraceptives commonly known as birth control to prevent pregnancies. Contraceptives are in the form of some devices, medicines, or surgery which help prevent pregnancy. There are many different types of contraception, but not all types are appropriate for all situations. Some of these are reversible while others are permanent.

The most appropriate method of birth control depends on an individual’s overall health, age, frequency of sexual activity, number of sexual partners, desire to have children in the future, and family history of certain diseases.

5 common contraceptive methods for women and their side effects

1. Oral Contraceptive Pills (OCPs):

OCPs contain hormones estrogen and progesterone that prevent the release of an egg (ovulation). They also thicken cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg.

Side effects: Nausea, headaches, breast tenderness, spotting, and mood changes

   2.Patches (Ortho Evra):

The birth control patch is a thin piece of plastic that looks like a square bandage. Like OCPs, it contains the hormones estrogen and progesterone. It's replaced weekly for 3 weeks, followed by a patch-free week.

Side effects: Nausea, headaches, breast tenderness, spotting, and mood changes and skin irritation at the patch site

   3. Vaginal Rings (NuvaRing):

A flexible ring is inserted into the vagina that releases hormones to prevent pregnancy. It's worn for 3 weeks, removed for 1 week, and then a new ring is inserted

Side effects: Nausea, headaches, breast tenderness, spotting, and mood changes, vaginal irritation or discharge.

    4. Intrauterine Devices (IUDs):

A small, T-shaped device is inserted into the uterus by doctors. IUDs can be hormonal (releasing progestin) or non-hormonal (copper).

Side effects: Irregular bleeding, headaches, and mood changes. Heavier and more painful periods.

   5. Female Sterilization:

Sterilization for women is a procedure that removes or blocks both fallopian tubes. The fallopian tube is where fertilization usually occurs before an egg travels on to reach the uterus. This is a permanent form of birth control.

Side effects: Pain, infection, and ectopic pregnancy (rare) 

Women have a variety of contraceptive options, each with its own advantages, disadvantages, and potential side effects. Consulting your doctor is crucial to choose the most appropriate and safe method of contraception.

Source:- 1. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/family-planning-contraception 

                2. https://www.health.harvard.edu/birth-control/methods/type/combined-pill