Birth Control Methods

Commonly used birth control methods today include withdrawal method, breastfeeding, barrier methods (condom, diaphragm, spermicide), oral contraceptives: Combined Oral Contraceptive (COC), minipills, emergency contraceptive pills, subdermal implants, injectable contraceptives, IUDs (intrauterine devices), and surgical sterilization.

Some of these methods are as follows:

1. Birth Control Pills: Available in 28-pill packs (no break), 22-pill packs (6-day break), and 21-pill packs (7-day break). Their mechanisms of action include suppression of ovulation, slowing down of egg passage in the fallopian tubes, prevention of implantation of a fertilized egg, and thickening of cervical mucus.They are highly effective (failure rate in the first year is 1-3 per 100 woman-years), easy to use, reduce menstrual bleeding in terms of amount, duration, and regularity. They also alleviate menstrual cramps, premenstrual tension, reduce ovarian cyst formation, benefit acne, lower the risk of endometrial and ovarian cancers, provide protection against some causes of PID, reduce benign breast conditions (like cysts and fibroadenomas), prevent ectopic pregnancy, and decrease the risk of osteoporosis.
2. Subdermal Implants: Consist of six capsules made of silicone, containing levonorgestrel, a synthetic progesterone crystal form (average 36 mg). They are placed under the skin in the inner part of the upper arm using local anesthesia. Mechanism of action includes ovulation suppression, reduction in tubal movements, thinning of the endometrium, and thickening of cervical mucus.They are highly effective (pregnancy rate is less than 1% per year over a five-year period), have an immediate effect, easy to use, providing protection for five years. They are convenient, not disruptive to daily activities, sexual desire, or intercourse. Reversible, comfortable, have minimal side effects, and do not affect breastfeeding.
3. Intrauterine Devices (IUDs): Prevent sperm from reaching the upper genital tract, thicken cervical mucus, alter the endometrial lining, and prevent egg implantation. There are copper-containing and hormone-releasing spirals.
4. Surgical Methods: Include tubal ligation and vasectomy. Tubal ligation involves mechanically closing both fallopian tubes to prevent fertilization. It takes effect immediately and has a low failure rate (1 in 1000). It eliminates contraceptive concerns without affecting sexual intercourse or menstrual regularity. However, if a pregnancy occurs, the chance of it being ectopic is significantly higher compared to those not using contraception. It is challenging to reverse.
5. Vasectomy: The vas deferens, located in the upper part of the scrotum, is cut and tied. Sperm cannot pass further, but semen production continues, and sexual function remains unchanged.