Are you looking for a contraceptive method that does not only provide durable protection but also effective enough for birth control? Then this article is for you. Read until the end for determining the best suitable birth control option for you.
In general, there are two broad categories of contraception methods depending upon their nature, usage, time of action and mode of action. These are:
- Hormonal birth control methods
- Non-hormonal birth control methods
Let’s take a closer look at these categories to give you a clearer idea of what may be a better option for you. If you’re looking for personalised advice, book an online appointment with our doctors in Ireland today.
Hormonal contraception options
Hormonal birth control methods are well-known among the public as they are easy to implement and successful. Only women can use hormonal procedures. However, it is essential to be knowledgeable about different available options to pick your best fit.
Some hormonal methods of birth control are short-term, meaning you will need to take them daily or more frequently, such as birth control pills. Whereas long-term methods remain active for longer periods and you don’t have to take them daily.
Short-term hormonal contraceptive methods
- Combined pill:
The combined pill is made up of synthetic hormones oestrogen and progestogen. They work exactly like natural hormones and make your body feel like you are pregnant. The combined pill works by thickening the cervical mucus, obstructing the process of ovulation, and weakening the uterus lining to prevent the fertilised egg implanting into the womb. You take the combined pill once a day at the same time each day. - Progesterone-only pill:
The progesterone-only pill doesn’t contain oestrogen, it contains only progestogen. It also works to stop ovulation and make it harder for sperm to reach an egg. This pill was formulated to circumvent the side effects of the hormone oestrogen. Similar to the combined pill, you take it once a day at the same time each day. - Vaginal ring:
A ring that is placed into your vagina, this contraceptive method releases the hormones oestrogen and progesterone, that work together to provide the same effects as the combined pill, but you don’t have to take it every day. A vaginal ring stays in place for three weeks, then you remove it for a week break before inserting a new one. - Contraceptive patch:
The contraceptive patch is just like a sticking medical plaster, which contains the hormones oestrogen and progesterone. You just stick this patch either on your upper arm, abdomen or upper back, and your body will absorb the hormones contained in it through your skin. You wear the patch for one week at a time, replacing it weekly for three weeks, followed by a patch-free week.
Long-acting reversible contraceptives or “LARC” methods
Women mostly prefer long-term birth control methods because they are easy to employ, longstanding and reversible. LARCs are the hormonal devices which contain hormones and can be easily taken in the form of an injection, intrauterine system or implant.
- Intrauterine system (IUS)
An intrauterine system is a small T-shaped device that contains progesterone. It is similar to IUD coil that releases copper. The IUS can be easily inserted into the womb and prevents pregnancy by stopping ovulation and impeding the sperms reach to an egg.
This is one of the most successful hormonal birth control methods and it’s effective for five years. You can resume your fertility immediately by removing the device. Monthly periods may become lighter or infrequent with the device.
- The Implant
The implant is a tiny rod that is implanted under the skin of your arm. It also releases progestogen which stops the sperm fertilising an egg, blocks ovulation, and makes it harder for a fertilised egg to attach to the womb and grow.
It is one of the most effective long-acting methods with fewer side effects. It lasts for three years but can be removed when you desire.
- The Injection
The injection contains progestogen and produces the same effects as the IUS and implant to prevent pregnancy. It works for either eight or twelve weeks (depending on the type) and is 99% effective. It is not influenced by other medicines and can be taken while you are breastfeeding. If you want to conceive after having the injection, you will have to wait until the effects wear off, which can slightly vary by the individual.
Non-hormonal contraceptive options
Any technique of contraception that does not impact a woman’s hormones is non-hormonal. Although condoms are a well-known type, there are numerous others.
- The diaphragm is a silicone cup that is placed into the vagina to trap and remove sperm.
- A cervical cap made of silicone is worn over the cervix to block the passage of sperm.
- A sponge is comprised of foam and works in the same way as a diaphragm or cervical cap.
- Copper is toxic to sperm, and copper IUDs prevent them from reaching the egg through the vaginal canal.
- If you want to prevent or stop sperm from reproducing, you can use spermicide, which you inject into your vagina.
- A male condom, commonly composed of latex, is a thin sheath worn over the penis during intercourse that blocks the passage of a man’s sperm into a woman’s reproductive system.
- A female condom is a latex tube that has been greased so that it can be put into the vagina. Its ends are capped with two movable rings. Sperm can’t enter through the open end because it’s sealed.
Still unsure of which option is right for you? It’s always a good idea to speak with your GP or get GP advice online from our doctors in Ireland. Our team of expert clinicians is here to help you find the contraceptive option that best suits your body. Plus, when your order the contraceptive pill online or the contraceptive path online, we’ll deliver straight to your home or your local pharmacy for your convenience.
References
- Condoms-Your contraception guide (NHS UK)
- Contraceptive Choices and Sexual Health for Transgender and Non-Binary People
- What you need to know about contraception (HSE)
- How effective is pulling out?
- Facts and Myths about contraception
- The contraceptive injection-Your contraception guide (NHS UK)
- Types of contraception and how long they take (HSE)