It can be confusing and complicated picking the right contraception for you. There’s a range of birth control methods out there to choose from, and every woman will react differently to them. It’s your body and your health, so take your time looking at all the options available. Remember to do it for you and not for anybody else.
You’ll need to consider many factors when making your choice, such as, how long do you want it to last? Do you mind hormonal ones? How often do you have to take the medication? It’s stressful being a woman, particularly when it comes to choosing birth control because we want to enjoy ourselves without the fear of having an unwanted pregnancy. Well, we’ve got your back as we’ve listed some birth controls below!
- ParaGard
What is it?
A ParaGard is the copper IUD, and it’s often referred to as the non-hormonal coil. It’s a T-Shaped frame that’s inserted into your uterus. The copper wire creates an environment that’s toxic for sperm and eggs that will then prevent pregnancy.
The Pros.
This one lasts for up to 10 years! So, you can put it in and forget about it for a long time without the faff of having to take a pill every day. It’s non-hormonal which is great if you’re negatively affected by hormonal birth control.
The Cons.
Unfortunately, it can be very painful to put in and some people find that you have to try twice to insert the coil. Also, it can make your menstrual pain and cramps a lot worse. Also, many women find that they will spot between periods when they have the ParaGard.
- Combined Pill
What is it?
There are many variations of the contraceptive pill, but the combined pill is the most popular. It contains the hormones oestrogen and progesterone. You will need to take the pill at the same time every day for it to be an effective birth control choice.
The Pros.
It’s 99% effective in stopping pregnancy! It’s also very convenient and easy to take as you’re in control of when you want to stop using it. The combined pill can actually help your menstrual pain as it often makes them lighter.
The Cons
A lot of women experience a range of side effects from the hormones in the pill from depression to headaches. Also, you can’t afford to be forgetful with this one, as you must take it every day to prevent pregnancy.
- Contraceptive Implant
What is it?
It’s a small plastic rod that releases hormones into your arm. The implant is inserted under your skin on your forearm by a nurse or doctor. Unlike the combined pill, it only releases progestogen into your blood.
The Pros.
This is another long-term solution as it will last for 3 years. It’s more than 99% effective and it’s useful for women who are negatively affected by oestrogen. You can also have it taken out by a nurse at any point. Plus, it’s often less painful to put in than the Paragard.
The Cons.
Some women experience temporary side effects after they’ve had the implant inserted, such as headaches, breast tenderness and nausea. Your periods can become irregular or stop altogether, which can be inconvenient.
- Contraceptive Injection
What is it?
The injection will release progesterone into your bloodstream to prevent pregnancy. You will need to receive the injection around every 13 weeks, depending on the one you’re given. So always ask your doctor when you need to return for your next one.
The Pros.
You won’t have to remember to take a pill every day as you’ll only need the injection around every 13 weeks. It’s more than 99% effective when you use it correctly! Plus, it’s a good option for women who can’t take oestrogen.
The Cons.
It can take up to a year for your fertility rate to return, so if you’re planning on having a child soon then this one is not the best option. You will also have to go to the doctors every 13 weeks to receive an injection. You can also experience side effects such as headaches.
It’s Your Body…
Take your time picking a birth control method that works for you. Talk to a doctor and your friends about the choices out there. It’s your body, so it’s your choice. Don’t get anything if you’re pressured into it. Remember to use a condom to protect against STIs!
