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Different birth-control methods have been used for thousands of years. Douching, withdrawal and vaginal suppositories have been popular forms of birth control since ancient times. Ancient Hindus practiced a form of birth control known as coitus reservatus, whereby the male does not ejaculate at all. Variations of the rhythm method have been practiced throughout the world.
American birth-control history includes the Comstock Law passed in 1879. This law criminalized all methods of birth control and enforced fines on anyone trying to prevent pregnancy with any method besides abstinence. This law was first passed in Connecticut where it was not struck down as unconstitutional until 1965.
Birth control is widely available today. Birth-control methods put the power of decision into the hands of the people using them. Birth control prevents pregnancy when it is unwanted or medically unsafe. -
Many types of birth control are available. Choosing a birth-control method is a personal choice based on many factors. Ease of use and availability are two reasons that people may choose one type of birth control over another.
Barrier methods have the fewest side effects and can be used at the time of intercourse. These methods include the male condom, female condom, cervical cap, diaphragm and sponge. Barrier methods prevent sperm from entering the uterus and fallopian tubes where conception would take place. These methods are 75 to 85 percent effective with typical use.
Hormonal or chemical contraception includes the birth-control pill, patch, ring, Depo-Provera shot and Implanon implant. These methods release synthetically made hormones into a woman's body that suppress ovulation. Hormonal birth control also thickens and woman's cervical mucus to prevent sperm from entering the uterus.
Intrauterine devices or IUDs offer pregnancy protection by blocking sperm from fertilizing an egg. The progestin in the Mirena IUD also suppresses ovulation, the release of an egg, and thickens cervical mucus.
Sterilization is available to both men and women. This method of birth control should be considered permanent as few procedures can effectively reverse sterilization. Vasectomy and tubal ligation are surgical procedures that disrupt the path of sperm and eggs, respectively. -
Making an informed decision about birth control starts with research. Each situation is different, and the birth-control market changes and grows. With new information being released all the time, it is best for people to ask their health-care professionals about birth control.
Considering personal feelings and beliefs is as important as getting the right technical information. -
Side effects of birth control range from none to many depending on the type of birth control. Barrier methods are the least invasive and have the fewest side effects. The only side effects of the male and female condoms may be an allergic reaction to latex. This can be avoided by using plastic-based condoms instead of latex.
Side effects of oral contraceptives include weight gain, nausea and fatigue. Older women and women who smoke may be at increased risk for blood clots, heart attack, stroke, gallstones or developing high blood pressure. These serious side effects are rare and happen more frequently in women who have an inherited blood clotting disorder or are on prolonged bedrest. Side effects for the Depo-Provera shot can include irregular bleeding, depression and weight gain.
Sterilization procedures have side effects relating to the surgical procedure such as bruising, pain and tenderness.
Women should discuss all methods of birth control with a health care professional before beginning a birth control regimen. -
Common misconceptions about birth control include the rate of effectiveness from one method to another and the availability of birth control.
Barrier methods have a rate of effectiveness ranging from 75 to 85 percent effectiveness. This is with typical, not perfect, use. Typical use figures give the consumer a more realistic idea of effectiveness.
Overall, hormonal and surgical methods have higher effectiveness rates. The Implanon implant and the IUD offer the same rate of protection as sterilization methods. The ring, patch and shot are only slightly less effective at approximately 92 to 98 percent.
Birth control is available through primary-care providers and public-health agencies. Minors do not need parental permission to access birth control. Costs vary, and some organizations offer sliding-scale fees based on the income and resources of the patient.
Birth control can prevent pregnancy and, in turn, enhance the quality of life for many people. Using birth control is an individual choice that deserves careful consideration.
