Contraception
Birth control, also known as contraception, is used to prevent pregnancy. There are several methods available, but they are only effective when used correctly. If you’re sexually active and want to avoid pregnancy, it’s important to use birth control, as pregnancy can happen any time you have unprotected sex.
Barrier Methods
These block the sperm from reaching the egg. While these are generally reliable, they can tear or slip off, which can still result in a pregnancy.
Female Condom
A female condom is a plastic pouch with flexible rings at both ends. One end is closed to cover the cervix.
Male Condom
A condom is a thin sheath made of latex, plastic, or lambskin that covers the penis during sex. It prevents semen from entering the vagina and also helps protect against sexually transmitted infections though not completely. However, condoms can sometimes tear.
Spermicides and Contraceptive Gel
Spermicide is a product (gel, cream, or suppository) that kills or stops sperm from moving, making it hard for them to reach an egg. It is inserted in the vagina 15-30 minutes before sex. Most types work for about an hour and you need to reapply it each time you have sex.
Diaphragm
A diaphragm is a reusable, dome-shaped cup made of flexible material. It fits inside the vagina and covers the cervix to block sperm from entering the uterus. It must be used with spermicide or contraceptive gel.
Sponge
The birth control sponge is a small, round device filled with spermicide that blocks sperm from reaching the cervix.
Cervical Cap
The cervical cap is a small, thimble-shaped cup made of silicone or rubber that fits snugly over the cervix. It is used with spermicide and inserted into the vagina to block sperm from entering the uterus, while the spermicide helps to immobilize or kill the sperm.
Hormonal Methods
Any method that uses hormones to prevent a pregnancy. These can be more effective compared to barrier methods, but may have more severe side effects, and improper use of these can lead to complications.
IUD
A small, T-shaped device inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. It comes in two types: copper (which lasts for 10 years) and progestin (which lasts for 3 to 7 years)
Birth Control
A hormone-based oral contraceptive taken daily to prevent pregnancy. It’s commonly known as “the pill” and is a convenient, routine method for many people. When used correctly every day, it is about 99% effective. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
Emergency Contraception/Morning-after pill
A type of birth control used within 120 hours (five days) after unprotected sex, with the highest effectiveness if taken within three days. It works by temporarily delaying ovulation to prevent the release of an egg.
Vaginal Ring
A form of hormonal contraception used to prevent pregnancy. It’s a small, bendable ring that is inserted into the vagina, where it steadily releases the hormones estrogen and progestin through the vaginal lining.
Birth control shot
It is a hormonal birth control method that uses progestin to prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation and thickening cervical mucus to block sperm. It is given as an injection in the upper arm or thigh every 12 weeks, and a lower-dose version may be self-administered at home.
Implanted Hormone
AA small, flexible rod placed under the skin of the upper arm by a healthcare provider. It continuously releases the hormone progestin into the bloodstream, preventing pregnancy for up to three years. Known for its high effectiveness, the implant must be inserted and removed by a medical professional.
"The Patch"
A reliable and easy-to-use birth control method that works effectively when used consistently. The patch releases estrogen and progestin,hormones similar to those naturally produced by the body through the skin.
Sterilization
A permanent surgical method to prevent pregnancy, available for both men and women.
Tubal Ligation
AA surgical procedure that blocks the fallopian tubes to prevent pregnancy. During the procedure, a surgeon may clamp, tie, or seal the tubes. Unlike a salpingectomy, the tubes are not entirely removed. If pregnancy does occur after this procedure, there is an increased risk of it being ectopic.
Vasectomy
A surgical method that closes off the vas deferens, the tubes that transport sperm in the male reproductive system. By preventing the release of sperm, it effectively eliminates the possibility of causing pregnancy.
Other Methods
Fertility Awareness
This uses someone’s natural menstrual cycle to take note of days where they’re more likely to get pregnant, and avoid any sexual activity on those days.
Abstinence
The most effective way to not have a baby is to not have sex. Catholic doctrine recommends that couples abstain from having intercourse if they are not yet married and are not yet ready to have a child.
References
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/11427-birth-control-options
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/3977-birth-control-the-pill
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9687-ectopic-pregnancy
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24157-vaginal-ring
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/birth-control-patch
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24564-contraceptive-implant