Hormonal contraception
Contraceptives: What You Should Know
Contraceptives are primarily used to prevent unwanted pregnancy. However, it is important to remember that oral contraceptives do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This should be taken into account when deciding whether to rely solely on them for birth control.
When considering contraceptives, you should also be informed about:
- Effectiveness of different methods
- Possible side effects
- Available alternatives suited to your lifestyle and health
Whatever method you choose, it is highly recommended to schedule a consultation with a healthcare professional. A specialist can help you find the contraceptive that best fits your body and your needs, while also minimizing the risk of adverse effects.
Understanding Contraceptives
There are several contraceptive methods, each suited to different needs and lifestyles. The main categories are:
Hormonal contraceptives:
- Birth control pills (combined or progestin-only)
- Patches and vaginal rings
- Subcutaneous implants
These methods regulate or suppress ovulation and require medical follow-up.
Intrauterine devices (IUDs):
- Hormonal or copper IUDs
- Inserted into the uterus by a healthcare professional, providing long-term protection (3 to 10 years depending on the type).
Barrier methods:
- Male and female condoms
- Diaphragms
These prevent sperm from reaching the egg and are the only methods that also protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Natural methods:
Calendar method, body temperature monitoring, cycle tracking
These require discipline and a good understanding of the menstrual cycle.
Sterilization:
Tubal ligation for women, vasectomy for men
Permanent methods for those who do not wish to have children.
Each method has its advantages, limitations, and potential side effects. It is important to consult a healthcare professional to choose the method best suited to your individual situation and body.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Oral Contraceptives
The choice of oral contraceptives may also depend on the following factors:
- symptoms during menstruation
- cardiovascular health
- chronic diseases
Some medications may reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives. If this is the case, it is advisable to discuss the effectiveness and interaction with other medications, dietary supplements or natural products with our professional.
Avoid using oral contraceptives if :
- Are planning to become pregnant
- Have a history of stroke
- Have thrombophlebitis or other thromboembolic disorders
- Have high blood pressure
- Have a history of heart attack
- Have liver disease
- Have breast cancer or a history of breast cancer
- Have unexplained or abnormal bleeding
Side Effects of Oral Contraceptives
Oral contraceptives are generally safe, but like any medication, they can have side effects. Some common side effects include:
- Nausea or mild stomach upset
- Breast tenderness or swelling
- Spotting or breakthrough bleeding between periods
- Headaches or migraines
- Mood changes or irritability
- Weight fluctuations or bloating
Less common but more serious side effects can occur, especially in individuals with certain health conditions:
- Blood clots (increased risk in smokers and women over 35)
- High blood pressure
- Liver problems
- Stroke or heart attack (rare, usually in women with predisposing risk factors)
If you experience persistent or severe side effects, it is important to consult a healthcare professional, who can help adjust your contraceptive method or suggest alternatives.
Common Myths About Contraceptives – Myth vs. Fact
Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
Oral contraceptives cause infertility. | Fertility typically returns quickly after stopping the pill. |
Contraceptives protect against STIs. | Most contraceptives, including pills, do not protect against STIs. Condoms are needed for protection. |
You don’t need contraception while breastfeeding. | Breastfeeding may reduce fertility temporarily, but it is not a reliable method of birth control. |
Contraceptives cause significant weight gain. | Most women experience minimal or no weight changes; any gain is usually due to fluid retention. |
Oral contraceptives are unsafe for most women. | Pills are generally safe for healthy women when prescribed and monitored by a healthcare professional. |
You can skip contraceptives during “safe” times of your cycle. | Cycle-based timing is unreliable because ovulation can vary. |
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