Choosing contraception

There are many forms of contraception offered today, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. When choosing a birth control method, several factors should be taken into account. How safe is the method? How well is the method suited to your lifestyle and sexual habits? The four major types of birth control methods include natural family planning, barrier methods, I-U-Ds, and hormonal contraception. Birth control implants, the pill, and the I-U-D are considered to be the most effective methods of continuous contraception that are reversible. For women who can't take estrogen (ESS-troe-jin), a mini-pill which contains progesterone (pro-JESS-ter-oan) only may be prescribed. Hormonal contraceptives are also available as injections, given at a doctor's office; each shot lasts about three months. Barrier methods are also reversible, but must be used each time you have intercourse in order to work. Examples of barrier methods are the male and female condom, diaphragm, cervical cap, and spermicidal creams, jellies, foams and films. The most common reason for failure of a contraception method is not using the method properly and consistently. Because of this, it's recommended that you choose a method you feel comfortable using on a regular basis. Women and men who are at risk for sexually transmitted diseases should also consider prevention of these infections when choosing contraception. You're at risk if you have more than one sexual partner, or if your partner has more than one partner. Barrier methods like the condom and diaphragm can help prevent sexually transmitted diseases and can be used along with other methods such as the pill. But remember, oral contraceptives alone do not protect against HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. Male condoms with spermicide are the best-known protection against AIDS. Whichever contraceptive method you decide to use, consider each method carefully and discuss the pros and cons with a healthcare professional.