Exploring Different Types of Contraception Method

What is the Birth Control Method?

Birth control methods or birth control options are scientifically accepted strategies and techniques and are one of the best ways of preventing pregnancy.

These methods include hormonal options like pills, patches, injections, and intrauterine devices (IUDs), as well as barrier methods such as condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps.

Other approaches include natural methods like the fertility awareness-based technique and the withdrawal (pull-out) method.

If you are planning for a baby, this blog is a must-read for you!

Safe Birth Control Methods for Male and Female

When we start thinking of the best family planning method we encounter contraceptive methods of family planning, and then we start looking for contraceptive methods for males and females. But do we know how to use them, what’s their efficacy? Rarely!

So, let’s look at all the available contraception methods in India

1. Birth Control Pills

Birth control pills are used by females to prevent pregnancy and are one of the modern methods of contraception. They are taken orally once a day and contain hormones (estrogen and/or progestin) that prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, and thin the uterine lining. When used consistently and correctly, their efficacy ranges from 91% to 99%.

2. Hormonal Patches

Hormonal patches are one of the birth control options for females exclusively. They are thin, adhesive patches applied to the skin, releasing hormones (estrogen and progestin) to prevent pregnancy. These patches should be changed weekly for three weeks, followed by a patch-free week. When used correctly, they have a high efficacy rate of around 91-99%.

3. Condoms

Condoms are used by both males and females as a contraception barrier method. They are worn over the penis or inserted into the vagina to prevent sperm from reaching the egg.

When used consistently and correctly, condoms are highly effective, with a typical efficacy rate of around 85% to 98%. They also protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

4. Birth Control Implants

Implants are also one of the birth control options for women. They are small, flexible rods inserted under the skin of the upper arm. These implants release progestin to inhibit ovulation and thicken cervical mucus. Highly effective, with a typical efficacy rate of over 99%, providing long-term contraception for up to several years.

5. Intrauterine Device

Intrauterine Devices (IUDs) are used by females for birth control. They are T-shaped devices inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider. IUDs come in hormonal and non-hormonal variants, preventing pregnancy by altering the uterine environment.

They offer highly effective, long-term contraception, with a typical efficacy rate of over 99%.

6. Diaphragm and Vaginal Ring

Diaphragm and Vaginal Rings are used by females for birth control. The diaphragm is a shallow, flexible cup inserted into the vagina, while the vaginal ring is a small, flexible ring placed in the vagina. They both work by blocking sperm from reaching the cervix. When used correctly, their efficacy ranges from 84% to 94%.

7. Depot-Provera Injection

Depot-Provera Injection is used by females for birth control. It is a progestin-based injection administered by a healthcare provider every three months. The injection prevents ovulation and thickens cervical mucus. Highly effective with a typical efficacy rate of over 99% when used as directed.

8. Birth Control Surgical Methods

Vasectomy is a contraceptive method used by males. It is a surgical procedure that involves cutting or blocking the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles. This prevents sperm from being released during ejaculation, leading to permanent contraception. Vasectomy is highly effective, with over 99% efficacy.

In females, tubectomy can be done and it involves blocking and sealing the fallopian tubes to prevent eggs from reaching the uterus, resulting in permanent contraception.

FAQ's about Safe Birth Control Methods

What is birth control?

Birth control refers to methods or devices used to prevent pregnancy. It includes contraceptive pills, condoms, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and various other methods to control fertility and reproduction.

What are 100% ways of preventing pregnancy? Or Permanent birth control method for females?

A 100% permanent birth control method for females is tubal ligation or tubal occlusion, where the fallopian tubes are surgically sealed or blocked to prevent eggs from reaching the uterus.

What foods prevent unwanted pregnancy?

There are no foods that can prevent unwanted pregnancy. Effective contraception methods, like contraceptives or barrier methods, are necessary for pregnancy prevention, not food consumption, according to scientific studies.

Which birth control method is best? Contraception best method?

The best birth control method varies for individuals based on their needs and preferences. Hence, it's best to consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Can salt and water prevent pregnancy?

No, salt and water cannot prevent pregnancy. Pregnancy prevention requires the use of reliable contraception methods.

Can Copper-T prevent STDs?

No, Copper-T (intrauterine device) cannot prevent sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). It only offers contraception by preventing pregnancy but does not protect against STD transmission. Try these preventive methods for STDs.

How to prevent pregnancy without birth control?

Preventing pregnancy without birth control includes abstinence (not engaging in sexual activity), fertility awareness (tracking period cycles), and barrier methods like condoms or diaphragms. However, efficacy varies, and using approved birth control is more reliable.

What pills to take to avoid pregnancy in India? Or the Best contraceptive pills in India?

I-Pill and Unwanted-21 days are the most common contraceptive pills in India. However, you must consult a doctor before taking any pills.

What is the contraception rhythm method?

The contraception rhythm method, or fertility awareness-based method, involves tracking menstrual cycles to identify fertile and infertile days for natural family planning, but its effectiveness varies and requires consistent monitoring.

Summing Up

Planning your family and using preventive measures are two different things. However, now that you are aware and informed, take steps today. 

If you are planning to start with family planning, please consult with a doctor online or in person. You can also explore our fertility or conception plans for having a safe and healthy pregnancy.