Contraceptives are often associated with individuals who've already had children, but they are relevant to unmarried women, too. Conception happens when a sperm cell successfully fertilizes an egg and then attaches to the uterus. The purpose of contraception is to prevent pregnancy, ensuring that individuals can engage in sexual activity without the risk of conceiving.
With numerous options available, finding the right contraception method is essential. None are 100% foolproof, and effectiveness can vary. In this article, we'll delve into common contraception methods widely used in Indonesia. Curious to know more? Read on to explore these methods!
Condom
You might be familiar with condoms, and not just men can use them; women can, too. Condoms serve the crucial function of preventing egg and sperm cells from meeting during sexual intercourse, thereby reducing the likelihood of pregnancy. What's more, condoms are the only contraception method that also protects against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Birth Control Pills
Birth control pills contain two essential hormones in women: estrogen and progesterone. These hormones work together to halt the release of egg cells from the ovaries, a process called ovulation. Additionally, they thicken cervical mucus, making it challenging for sperm cells to penetrate and thin the uterine wall, reducing the chance of a fertilized egg implanting. These pills must be taken daily at the same time.
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Birth control pills need to be taken every day
Birth Control Injection
Birth control injections, given once every 12 weeks in the arms or buttocks, contain the hormone progesterone. These injections function similarly to pills, preventing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to hinder sperm penetration, and thinning the uterine wall to prevent a fertilized egg from implanting. They can be administered during the menstrual cycle if you're not pregnant.
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Birth control injections are carried out every 3 months
Birth Control Implants
These small plastic rods are inserted into the upper arm by a doctor. Like birth control pills, implants contain the hormone progesterone, which stops ovulation. The implant gradually releases this hormone into your bloodstream, effectively preventing pregnancy for three years. If needed, it can be removed, allowing the possibility of pregnancy.
Intrauterine Device (IUD)
IUDs come in two types: copper and hormonal. It's a T-shaped device made of plastic that a doctor inserts into the uterus. Copper IUDs impair sperm cells, preventing them from fertilizing eggs, while hormonal IUDs prevent fertilization. This device can remain in the uterus for 5 to 10 years.
Sterilization
Sterilization procedures are permanent contraception methods. For women, this procedure is known as tubal ligation, involving blocking, closing, or tying the fallopian tubes to prevent sperm and egg cells from meeting. In men, sterilization is called a vasectomy, accomplished by cutting or closing the tubes carrying sperm cells. Couples usually opt for sterilization when they no longer wish to have children.
Choosing the Right Contraception
The choice of contraception is highly personal and should be influenced by factors like:
- Ease of use
- Method effectiveness
- Reversibility or ease of removal
- Cost
These methods are diverse, and selecting the most suitable one depends on your preferences and discussions with your partner. Ladies can seek advice from a doctor through Fitie for a deeper understanding of the effectiveness of each contraception method and which is the best fit for their needs.
Source:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Contraception [Online] https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/contraception/index.htm
Healthdirect Australia. (2021). Contraception options [Online] https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/contraception-options
United Kingdom National Health Service. (2021). Your contraception guide [Online] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/?tabname=methods-of-contraception
World Health Organization. (2020). Family planning/contraception methods [Online] https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/family-planning-contraception