4. The IUD
Here’s another option for those interested in a long-acting contraceptive. The intrauterine device is a small, T-shaped coil made from plastic and copper that health professionals put inside the uterus. It prevents pregnancies for five up to 10 years, but its effects can be reversed anytime.
Pros: Long-term method, no hassle after insertion, no hormones, reversible.
Cons: No protection from STIs, requires help from a health professional, makes you prone to infection in the first 20 days after insertion, can’t be used by women with certain medical conditions.
3. The Diaphragm
Another one for the girl. Together with spermicide, the diaphragm is inserted inside the vagina to cover the cervix. The diaphragm prevents sperm from entering while the spermicide kills the sperm upon contact and in case of a leak. Here are specific instructions how to use one.
Pros: No hormones, can be placed up to three hours before intercourse, can stay inside the vagina for up to six hours.
Cons: No protection from STIs, requires spermicide (another contraceptive), tricky to use for first-timers.
2. The Injection
What if not worrying about an unplanned pregnancy can be as easy as one injection? You have the option to get progestogen injected into you, which makes you infertile for up to 13 weeks.
Pros: Long-term method, no hassle after injection, decreases menstrual cramps.
Cons: No protection from STIs, irreversible for a certain period, can cause weight gain, requires help from a health professional.
1. The Patch
Once you stick the contraceptive patch on your skin, it’ll release estrogen and progestogen that stop ovulation. It’s similar to taking hormones via birth control pills, but the dose from the patch is much higher—about 60% more. A patch can be worn for up to one week. After that, simply replace it with a new one.
Pros: Hassle-free, decreases menstrual cramps.
Cons: No protection from STIs, requires a prescription, can’t be used by women with certain medical conditions.
Which contraceptive do you like to use or recommend? Sound off below!
