Birth Control

Birth control or \"Contraception\" is a measure to prevent pregnancy. There are many methods used for birth control. Some methods work better than others.

When a couple plans to use birth control, the method that they choose depends on factors such as the mother\'s overall health, frequency of biological intercourse, how well the method works in preventing pregnancy, any possible side effects and the mother\'s comfort level in using the method.

The most effective birth control method is continuous abstinence that is, not having any type of intercourse. The next best is periodic abstinence or fertility awareness. A woman who has a regular menstrual cycle has about seven or more fertile days every month. In these days her chances of getting pregnant are greater than normal. Periodic abstinence means that the partners do not have sex on these days.

Another birth control method prevents the male sperm from fertilizing the female egg. These methods involve the use of condoms, diaphragms, or cervical caps.

Oral Contraceptives, also known as the pill, are taken daily and contain two hormones called estrogen and progestin. They block the release of eggs from the ovaries. Oral contraceptives may add to a woman\'s risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, blood clots and blockage of the arteries.

Another birth control method is the IUD (intrauterine device). An IUD is a small T – shaped device that is placed inside the female uterus. The device stops fertilization by preventing sperm from entering the uterus. Even if fertilization occurs, the IUD prevents the fertilized egg from implanting in the lining of the uterus.

There are other methods such as IUS, Depo-Provera injections, contraceptive sponges, The Patch (Ortho Evra), Hormonal Vaginal Contraceptive Rings (NuvaRing), surgical sterilization (tubal-ligation or vasectomy) and non-surgical sterilization (Essure Permanent Birth Control).

None of the above methods except abstinence are 100% effective. Doctors and nurses are the best professionals to consult on an appropriate birth control measure.