What are Contraceptives?
Contraceptives are things that prevent pregnancy. They are also called ‘family planning’ or ‘birth control’. There are lots of options from pills to IUDs to condoms.
Types of Contraceptives
There are different types of contraceptives, and they work in different ways. Some like condoms work by preventing the sperm from meeting the egg, others like the birth control pill or injections or implants work by releasing hormones that stop ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovaries). Without an egg, pregnancy can’t happen. And there are some natural methods like tracking your ovulation.
Should I be on contraceptives?
It’s something to think about if you’re sexually active. For women who don’t want kids right now, using some type of birth control can be a good idea.
And most importantly...which one should I even start with?!
Everybody is unique, so what works very well for your friend or sister may not work for you o. Let your doctor or nurse know your full health history and lifestyle to discuss the ups and downs of every method. Feel free to ask any questions you have. Then you can weigh the various options and choose the one that’d work for you.
When I want to have a baby, would contraceptives make it difficult?
No! They do their job while you use them, whether that’s 3-5 years for the implant or longer for Your fertility to come right back afterwards—some IUDs.
Ugh, Am I going to gain weight?!
To be honest, you may gain some water weight or bloating at first while you adjust to the hormones. But don’t stress – for most methods, you can assume your body weight will stay the same. If you notice that the ‘fatness’ is getting too much after 3-6 months, chat with your doctor to switch it!
Would it make me moody?
Mood stuff can be complicated and differ from person to person. But plenty of people use birth control with no problem at all. Pay attention to how you feel and if it’s really affecting you, don’t just suffer in silence – get it checked out by your doc right away so you can find the best option for YOU.
Would it make my periods irregular?
Everyone is so different on this! Lots of contraceptives make your periods lighter or you might not even get them at all, which many people love. For others, periods can get more irregular and weirder at first while things stabilize. Keep track of your flow and let your doctor know if things stay scattered for more than three months. There are always more options to try.
Does it cause cancer?
Yes and No. Using birth control pills for years may slightly raise the risk of breast cancer but the good thing is that it also lowers the risks for other cancers like cancer of the ovaries and the womb.
Is it Painful?
Not really. Most types like the implant, patch or pill are not painful to use at all. IUD insertion has some temporary pain however.
Does it affect libido?
Most types do not affect sex drive, but some impacts are possible. Discuss any changes with your doctor.
Does it protect me from HIV?
Only condoms properly prevent the spread of infections like HIV and Hepatitis. Other contraceptives do not.
Where can I get contraceptives?
From doctors, health clinics, pharmacies, or family planning centres.
How long does it last?
Some like IUDs and implants last for as long as 3-12 years. Others like the pill or injections must be taken daily, weekly, monthly or every three months depending on type.
Do they still prevent pregnancy if I use them after I have sex?
Only emergency contraceptives like the ‘’morning after pill’’ which helps prevent pregnancy when taken shortly after sex. Not the regular birth control methods.
Can I still get pregnant even if I am on contraceptives?
There is always a small chance of pregnancy on any birth control method.
What’s the best contraceptive?
There is no universal “best” option. Discuss your needs and preferences with a doctor to choose what fits your body and lifestyle.
Do men have pills?
Not yet. At the moment, condoms are the easiest reversible option for men. Researchers are studying male hormonal and non-hormonal options though.