Effective Forms of Contraception
Many forms of contraception exist today. Here is a list of the most effective forms of contraception that you can use.
Implant
An implant is 99% effective and it is one of the best options available. A tiny plastic rod is inserted inside your skin. This rod releases progestin which is a hormone that directly affects ovulation. It blocks sperm by making the cervical mucus thicker than normal. It can last up to three years.
Vasectomy
This is one of the most effective types of contraception with 99% or more effectiveness. A vasectomy is a surgical option for men in which the tubes carrying the sperm are cut and sealed. This prevents the sperm from being released when ejaculation occurs.
Hormonal IUD
A hormonal IUD is one of the most effective forms of contraception as its success rates are 99% or higher. A hormonal IUD causes the release of progestin that causes the cervical mucus to become thicker so that sperm is blocked. It can be left in its place for up to five years. It is expensive.
Copper IUD
A copper IUD is a 99% effective form of contraception. It is used to block the fertilized egg from being implanted in your uterus. It is one of the pricier methods of contraception but it can be left as it is for 10 years.
Shot
A shot is an injection of progestin that your doctor needs to give you every 90 days. It is 98% effective and helps prevent you from becoming pregnant. It is convenient and all you need to do is get a shot every 90 days from your doctor.
Vaginal ring
A vaginal ring is placed inside the vagina and it can be done by you. It can be left in the vagina for three weeks and then you need to remove it for a week so you can have your period. The vaginal ring is one of the most effective forms of contraception and is 92% effective.
Hormonal pill
Also called minipill, the hormonal pill is 92% effective. It makes use of progestin which leads to cervical mucus thickening that is used to block sperm. The hormonal pill can cause some side effects such as an increase in the severity of the period symptoms.
Patch
A patch is 92% effective. A flat patch is used to release progestin and estrogen. It is placed on the skin. A fresh patch needs to be applied weekly. After three weeks, you should not use a patch for a week. This is to ensure you have your period.
Combination pill
A combination pill is 91% effective and it consists of progestin and estrogen. This pill does two things: prevents sperm from entering the uterus and prevents the ovaries from releasing eggs. For some women, it can help reduce symptoms related to their period.
Diaphragm
A diaphragm is one of the most effective forms of contraception because it is 88% effective. A diaphragm is covered with spermicide before it needs to be used and it is a disk that creates a blockage to the cervix.
Contraceptive sponge
Contraceptive sponges are 88% effective. A contraceptive sponge is a plastic sponge that has been saturated with spermicide. It is placed in the vagina to kill sperm. You can find these in some grocery stores and pharmacies. The sponge can be removed six hours after sex.
Male condom
Male condoms are 82% effective and they are easily available in pharmacies, stores, and health clinics. Male condoms are generally made of latex and prevent sperm from entering the vagina. They don’t protect you from STDs, and you might have an allergic reaction.
The most effective forms of contraception depend on which one works best for you because every type of contraception is not best for every individual. Your requirements can change, and so the form of contraception that was great for you yesterday might not be so great for you today.