The most well-known methods of contraception after condoms are the hormonal ones, in which case there is a diverse range of options for patients who want to avoid the installation of a new pregnancy.
Classically, contraceptive methods can be hormonal and non-hormonal.
The hormonal ones are represented by combined oral contraceptives, progesterone-only contraceptives, contraceptive implants, the hormonal IUD (which has a double action), the vaginal ring, delayed-release injectable contraceptives, etc.
Combined oral contraceptives
These are the most commonly used contraceptive pills and contain two types of hormones: an estrogen and a progesterone. They can contain the same dose in each pill or they can have a different composition in the case of triphasic contraceptives. Combined oral contraceptives have the role of thickening the cervical mucus, which makes it difficult for spermatozoa to ascend to the uterus and to prevent ovulation, reducing the possibility of pregnancy.
The administration of contraceptive pills is generally safe, but it is done only after a specialist consultation. Otherwise, they can generate multiple side effects detailed in this material .
Contraceptive/combined vaginal ring
The contraceptive vaginal ring is a thin plastic ring, which contains the same hormones as the contraceptive pill. It is inserted inside the vagina and can be used for a period of 3 weeks. The ring can be removed during sexual intercourse, but it needs to be reinserted after a maximum of 3 hours.
Contraceptive implants
It is presented in the form of small sticks made of a material similar to plastic, which slowly release a hormone from the progesterone group. They are implanted under the skin on the inside of the arm and can provide contraception for up to 3 years.
The hormonal contraceptive
As its name suggests, this intrauterine device also acts by releasing a hormone similar to progesterone, a release that can vary between 3 and 5 years, depending on the brand of IUD.
In some cases, apart from the contraceptive role, this type of IUD can be indicated for women with heavy cycles or irregular vaginal bleeding.
What are the non-hormonal methods?
The best-known non-hormonal, local method of contraception is the condom, but the diaphragm, cervical domes, and spermicides are part of the same category. As their name suggests, they act only locally, and their effectiveness is slightly lower than that of hormonal contraception methods. One of the great advantages of using a condom is the fact that it implicitly prevents the contracting of sexually transmitted diseases.
The IUD, another non-hormonal method, is one of the most effective
The IUD is one of the best contraceptive methods, the possibility of getting pregnant is very low. These chances are very small, occurring in 0.1% of cases, compared to 100 women, per 1 year.
Normally, the IUD works when it is correctly located in the uterine cavity. When it moves or has not been inserted properly, there is a risk of pregnancy.
Natural contraception methods
The calendar method and coitus interruptus are two natural methods to prevent the occurrence of a pregnancy, they have the lowest efficiency, the efficiency mainly depends on the way they are performed.
The calendar method is based on calculating a woman's fertile period on the calendar. The method is simple and helps you get to know your own body better. Based on the previous 12 menstrual cycles, subtract 18 days from the shortest menstrual cycle to determine the first fertile day and 11 days from the longest menstrual cycle to determine the last fertile day. Then it is calculated between which days menstruation can occur. In order to learn more about this method, it is recommended to ask the specialist doctor.
Surgical contraception methods
Vasectomy, tubal ligation, as well as internal tubal obstruction are surgical methods of contraception. These methods are not reversible, so before taking this step, it is recommended that you consult both your partner and the specialist doctor, who can provide you with details about what exactly this process involves.
