Methods of Birth Control

Birth control are methods that couples use to protect themselves from pregnancy.  But it is important to note that they do not do anything to prevent against sexually transmitted disease.  Before you choose a birth control method, you need to understand your options, how they work and the pros and cons.

There is a sterilization method for women and a sterilization method for men.  The one for women is tubal litigation where a woman’s fallopian tubes are tied, cut or burnt so that no eggs can go through to be fertilized.  Men has a vasectomy where the vas deferens from each testicle is sealed, cut or clamped so there is no release of sperm during ejaculation.  The positive is that is a one time procedure with little side effects.  The downside is that it is a permanent procedure.

Barrier methods act as a physical barrier to prevent sperm from reaching the egg.  Examples of barrier methods are condoms for men and sponge, diaphragm or cervical cap for women.  These are not the most effective form of birth control, however.

Hormonal methods control a woman’s hormones which affect the reproductive system and therefore prevent pregnancy.  These include birth control pills, Nuva Ring and IUD’s.  Birth control must be taken daily and you cannot skip a day.

The only birth control method that can reduce your risk of getting an STD is the condom but it is not really effective as a birth control method although it is better than not using anything at all.