Birth control, also known as contraception, is the use of medicines, devices, or surgery to prevent pregnancy. There are many different types. Some are reversible, while others are permanent. Some types can also help prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Are you interested in using contraception? These are the different types we offer at EHA Clinics. Read to learn about them, their functions, and possible side effects.
BIRTH CONTROL PILL (Oral Contraceptives)
There are two types of the birth control pill. The Combined oral contraceptives and the Progestogen-only pills. Both are tiny pills which must be taken one at the same time every day.
Combined Oral Contraceptive: These oral contraceptives contain both oestrogen and progestin. The Combined hormonal contraceptives have the potential to be 99% effective if used correctly.
Progestogen Only Pills: These are birth control pills that contain only one hormone (progestin). Progestogen Only Pills work by thickening your cervical mucus so sperm can’t reach an egg. The hormone in the pills also thins the lining of your uterus, so menstrual bleeding is lighter. For Progestogen Only Pills to be most effective, it’s very important you take a pill at the same time each day. Like combination birth control pills, progestogen-only pills can be 99% effective.
Benefits Of Oral Contraceptives
It does not interrupt sex
It usually regulates menstrual flow, making it lighter and less painful
It reduces the risk of cancer of the ovaries, womb and colon
It can reduce symptoms of PMS (premenstrual syndrome)
It can sometimes reduce acne
It may protect against pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
Side Effects of Oral Contraceptives
Some of the recorded side effects of oral contraceptives especially in the first several months of use, including:
Breast tenderness/pain
Nausea
Headaches
Irregular periods
INJECTABLE
Depo-Provera is a form of the hormone progestin. It prevents ovulation and thickens cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg (ovum). It is administered as an intramuscular injection, given on the upper thigh or arm. Each injection provides protection against pregnancy for about 12 weeks (or three months). Therefore, it is given every 3months for an optimal result.
The Depo-Provera shot has the potential to be 99% effective as long as the injections are timely taken.
Benefits of Injectables
Each injection lasts for either 8 or 13 weeks
It does not interrupt sex
It is an option if you can't use oestrogen-based contraception
You do not have to take a pill every day
It is safe to use while breastfeeding
It is unaffected by other medicines
Side Effects of Injectables
Depo-Provera may cause irregular bleeding
Menstrual flow may cease with continuous use for more than one year
This is the only contraceptive that may cause weight gain
It may be slightly harder to predict commencement of fertility after stopping Depo-Provera (compared to other birth control methods)
CONTRACEPTIVE IMPLANTS
A contraceptive implant is a small device placed under the skin. It contains a progestogen hormone which slowly releases into the body. There are 2 types of implants; Implanon, which lasts for 3 years and Jadelle, which lasts for 5 years, after which it should be removed.
Benefits of Implants
Birth control implants are almost 100% effective. It’s the most effective form of reversible contraception available.
It is one of the most effective birth control methods available
Once inserted, the implant last 3 years before needing to be replaced
No pre-sex prep or reminders
It can be taken out at any time and fertility will return to normalcy
It is a safe option for women who can’t use birth control that contains oestrogen
Side Effects of Implants
The most common side effect of the implant is a change in the woman’s menstruation. Her periods can become lighter, heavier, longer, or irregular. In some cases they can also stop altogether.
Other less common side effects can include:
Nausea
Headaches
Breast pain
Weight gain
Ovarian cysts, although these typically disappear by themselves
INTRAUTERINE CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICE (IUD)
An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, flexible, T-shaped device inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. IUDs work by causing the cervical mucus to become thicker so sperm can’t reach the ovum. The hormone also thins the lining of the uterus, so menstrual bleeding becomes lighter. Owing to their fuss free low maintenance, IUDs have reputedly been dubbed, “get it and forget it” .
There are two types of IUDs: IUDs made of copper and IUDs made of plastic containing hormones (progestin). The copper IUD can be kept in place for 10 years. An example of progestin IUDs is Mirena® which is available at EHA Clinics.
Benefits of IUDs
High effectiveness: IUDs are nearly 100% effective
Providing long-term contraception: IUDs are safe to use for longer period
Affordability: An IUD does not require frequent visits to the doctor or repeat prescriptions.
Side Effects of IUDs
Copper IUDs may cause more painful and heavy periods.
Some women may stop getting their periods completely
In the very rare chance that pregnancy occurs while having an IUD, there is a greater chance of it being an ectopic pregnancy
CONDOMS
A condom is a thin covering made of latex, plastic or lambskin that is rolled over an erect penis. The covering prevents semen, the fluid that contains sperm, from entering a woman’s vagina. The risks of condoms tearing make them less effective than other birth control methods. It is advisable to use a new condom every time you have sex. Condoms are about 85% effective if they’re worn before intercourse begins and don’t rip.
Even though they don’t provide 100% protection, condoms are one of the best options for protection against STIs. Use only water-based lubricants, such as K-Y Jelly or Astroglide with condoms. Oil-based lubricants (Vaseline or baby oil) can cause condoms to break.
Benefits of Condoms
Condoms can be purchased without a prescription. This makes condom use a great way to prevent many pregnancies
Condoms are easy to use and do not require any medical skills or health care provider to administer
Condoms do not physically alter fertility. They are a single-time “use and throw” contraception method
They provide a protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
They have a high success rate as a contraceptive method when used properly
Side Effects of Condoms
Whilst rare, some persons experience latex allergy, an allergic response to the protein in the rubber condoms are made of
Whatever your choice, we always recommend speaking with your trusted healthcare provider to better understand what works best for you.
To book a consultation, please visit our website www.eha.ng or call 08003422546427.
Contraceptive Methods at EHA Clinics