Ways to prevent pregnancy

Things to consider when choosing a contraceptive include how it works, how effective it is, and whether it protects you from sexually transmitted infections (STIs). 

The UK’s Family Planning Association (FPA) claims that one in 90 sexually active women will become pregnant within 12 months if they are not using contraception. Whenever a person has unprotected sex, including for the first time, there is a risk of getting pregnant. 

Some methods are available without a prescription, but most require a prescription. Each contraceptive method has advantages and disadvantages. Learn more about the different types of contraceptives designed to prevent pregnancy. 

Diaphragm:

A diaphragm is a contraceptive method that is placed inside the vagina. It is important to apply spermicide to the septum before each use. The CDC estimates that diaphragm function is around 90% when spermicide is used. 

The diaphragm should be inserted a few hours before intercourse, left for 6 hours after intercourse, and removed 24 hours later. Diaphragms do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases. 

Cervical Cap:

The cervical cap (sold as FemCap each in the US) is a soft silicone cup that is placed deep into the vagina. It covers the cervix and prevents sperm from reaching the egg. 

Cervical cap effectiveness varies depending on the source, but Family Planning estimates its effectiveness to be about 70 to 85 percent. It does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases. Cervical caps can be purchased at drug stores or online. 

Sponges:

Contraceptive sponges are a contraceptive method that can be purchased without a prescription. A sponge made of polyurethane foam and spermicide is placed deep into the vagina to prevent sperm from entering the uterus. 

Sponges are 76 to 88 percent effective when used alone, but use with condoms further reduces the risk of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. Contraceptive sponges can be purchased online.

Spermicides:

Spermicides are chemicals that inactivate sperm. It is available without a prescription and is used with barrier contraceptive methods such as condoms, but not with sponges. 

When used alone, the spermicide should be inserted close to the uterus at least 10 minutes before intercourse. The duration of the effect is 60 minutes, and the number of effects is about 71%. Spermicide gel can be purchased at drug stores or online. Talk to your doctor about the most effective way to use spermicide as a form of contraception. 

Hormonal methods:

Hormonal birth control prevents pregnancy by preventing ovulation, the release of an egg from the ovary. This type of birth control does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases. 

Most hormonal contraceptives are available only with a doctor’s prescription and, except for emergency contraception, are not usually available online. 

Oral contraceptives:

Oral contraceptives are one of the most commonly used birth control methods in the United States. Various brands of tablets are available, and according to the UK National Health Service (NHS), they have an efficacy rating of 99 or higher. Take exactly as prescribed. However, in normal use, the effectiveness is about 95%. The pills come in two forms. One is a combination pill containing oestrogen and progestin, which should be taken daily as directed. Pill packs often contain hormone-free pills. When you take these pills, menstruation starts. 

Progestin-only mini-pill:

This pill should be taken at the same time every day without any interruption. There is no fixed menstrual period for people taking the minipill.

Injections:

Birth control injections (Depo-Provera) are usually given by your doctor every 12 weeks. According to the CDC, when used correctly, it provides more than 90% protection against pregnancy, assuming you are vaccinated on time. 

Depending on the planned pregnancy, it may take 10 months and sometimes longer for fertility to return to normal after stopping contraceptive vaccination. 10. Vaginal ring: According to the NHS, the contraceptive ring known as NuvaRing is more than 99% effective when used correctly, but is usually less than 95 per cent effective due to human error. 

Insert this small plastic ring into her vagina for three weeks. It releases hormones in the body to prevent pregnancy. Before inserting the new ring, you need to remove the ring for 7 days keeping in mind your menstrual period. 

Male condoms:

Male and female condoms are the only types of contraception that protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), male condoms are more than 80 percent effective at preventing pregnancy when used correctly. To use a male condom correctly:

Choose the correct size. 

Place the condom on the head of your erect penis. If you are not circumcised, the first thing to do is pull back the foreskin. 2Pinch the tip of the condom to release air. 

Spread the condom over your penis, being careful not to tear it. 

After intercourse, hold the base of the condom before pulling it out of the vagina. 

Remove and dispose of the condom. Never reuse a condom. 

Most male condoms are made of latex, but other types are available for people with latex allergies. If you use lubricant, make sure it is compatible with the type of condom you are using. For example, latex condoms can only be used with water-based lubricants. 

Condoms are available over-the-counter (OTC) without a prescription at supermarkets, drugstores, or online. Latex-free condoms are also available for purchase online.

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