For couples who have already had their children or for those who do not wish to have them yet, as well as for those who are not in a serious relationship and have an active sex life, the concern about contraceptive methods is constant in people’s lives and can lead to very serious problems due to their side effects.
There are so many contraceptive options and so many brands and manufacturers that it is possible to try and find one that suits you best. But not all women are able to find one that is satisfactory and allows them to live a normal life using the method. The most widely used method in the world is oral contraception, which is considered easily accessible, easy to use, and also highly effective. However, it has an extensive list of side effects, and in 90% of women, these present in unpleasant ways, such as bloating, severe headaches, weight gain, nausea, and the much-feared loss of libido, which is one of the main complaints in gynecological offices. Another major concern is the high risk of developing venous thrombosis, especially for those who suffer from other issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and even high cholesterol.
The second option for those who do not adapt to oral contraceptives is the contraceptive injection. This method consists of a combination of estrogen and progesterone, providing long-term action. There are options for either monthly or quarterly injections, and these should only be applied in the buttocks area. For the quarterly injections, the advantage is the absence of menstruation during this period. Its function is similar to oral medication, as it suppresses ovulation and reduces cervical mucus and endometrial thickness, thereby decreasing menstrual flow. Its side effects include severe headaches, acne, weight gain, bloating, dizziness, mood changes, and a reduction in bone mineral density.
The third alternative, widely used among couples, is the condom. The condom acts as a barrier for sperm and is made from latex or polyurethane, which, besides preventing sperm from reaching the uterus, is also effective in protecting against sexually transmitted diseases. There are no side effects, as the method does not enter the bloodstream and does not alter hormone levels. Some people may experience allergies to the condom material or the spermicidal lubricant used.
For those who do not adapt to other methods, there is also the contraceptive implant. This is a small capsule made of etonogestrel, approximately 4 cm long and 2 mm in diameter. It is applied under the skin with a disposable applicator by a gynecologist. With its use, ovulation is blocked, and the secretion of the cervical mucus is altered, making it harder for sperm to enter and survive. However, its side effects are not very pleasant and are quite similar to those of oral contraceptives. These can include severe headaches, pain at the application site, acne, increased menstrual flow, breast pain, weight gain, loss of libido, mood changes, and nausea.
Another method widely used by women is the IUD (intrauterine device) or IUS (intrauterine system), which, as the names suggest, are devices inserted into the uterus. Their insertion must be performed by an obstetrician, and their effectiveness is long-lasting, providing peace of mind for an average of 5 to 10 years. The methods prevent sperm from coming into contact with the egg, and in the case of the IUS, it even helps to reduce menstrual flow. The main side effects are menstrual cramps, especially in the first few months of use, and for the IUD, increased menstrual frequency and flow.
Also available as a contraceptive option, the patch—also known as the contraceptive patch—is a sticker that should be applied to the skin and left on for 1 week. The patch contains two hormones, estrogen and progestogen, which are released into the bloodstream over a period of 7 days, after which the patch should be replaced with a new one. After three weeks of use, a one-week break is required. The patch can be applied to different parts of the body such as the arm, abdomen, back, or buttocks. Its side effects are considered minimal, such as headaches, nausea, and mild menstrual cramps.
Not widely used and little known among women, the vaginal ring is a small, flexible ring containing etonogestrel and ethinyl estradiol. The method consists of inserting it into the vagina in a figure-8 shape on the 5th day of menstruation, where it should remain for 21 days. After this period, it should be removed for a 7-day break, and then a new ring is inserted. Its action, due to the release of hormones, is to inhibit ovulation. Side effects can include spotting, severe headaches, weight gain, vaginitis, leukorrhea, and it can often become displaced or fall out.
See also: Getting Pregnant While Taking Birth Control – Is it possible?
Photos: Paille, Thomas Weidenhaupt, Sexinfo
