Types of Birth Control Methods and How to Choose the Right One

Family planning and the prevention of unwanted pregnancies are fundamental aspects of people's reproductive lives, and contraceptive methods play a crucial role in this context. Over the years, science has developed a variety of methods to prevent pregnancy, each with varying degrees of effectiveness, ease of use and side effects. In addition to preventing pregnancy, some contraceptive methods also protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), making them essential tools for sexual and reproductive health.

Classification of contraceptive methods.

Contraceptive methods are divided into several categories based on their mechanism of action:

• Barrier methods.
• Hormonal methods.
• Intrauterine devices (IUDs).
• Permanent methods.
• Emergency methods.
• Natural methods or those based on fertility awareness.

Barrier methods.

Barrier methods prevent sperm from reaching the egg by using physical devices that create a barrier between the two. These methods are effective when used correctly, and some also provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

• Male condom: A thin sheath that is placed over the erect penis before sexual intercourse. In addition to preventing pregnancy, condoms are highly effective at preventing STIs, including HIV. They are 85% effective at preventing pregnancy with typical use and 98% effective with perfect use.
• Female condom: Similar to the male condom, but inserted into the vagina. It also protects against STIs and is 79% effective with typical use.
• Diaphragm: A latex or silicone cap inserted into the vagina before intercourse to block sperm from entering the uterus. It must be used with a spermicide to increase its effectiveness. Diaphragm effectiveness is 88% with typical use.

Hormonal methods.

Hormonal methods alter the balance of hormones in a woman's body to prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, or alter the lining of the uterus to prevent pregnancy. They are very effective methods, but require ongoing monitoring and follow-up.

• Birth control pill: The oral contraceptive pill is one of the most common methods. It contains hormones (estrogen and progestin, or progestin only) that prevent ovulation. When taken correctly, it is 99% effective, although with typical use it is 91%.
• Contraceptive patch: Applied to the skin, it releases hormones continuously. The patch is changed weekly and is 91% effective with typical use.
• Vaginal ring: A flexible ring that is inserted into the vagina and releases hormones. It is worn for three weeks at a time and then removed for one week. It is 91% effective.
• Contraceptive injections: These contain progestin and are administered every three months. They are 94% effective with typical use.
• Subdermal implant: A small device placed under the skin of the arm that releases hormones. It lasts up to three years and is 99.95% effective.

Intrauterine devices (IUDs).

The IUD is a small, T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus by a health care professional. There are two main types:

• Hormonal IUD: Releases a small amount of progestin that thickens cervical mucus and, in some cases, inhibits ovulation. It lasts 3 to 5 years and is 99.8% effective.
• Copper IUD: It does not contain hormones, but copper acts as a natural spermicide. It lasts up to 10 years and is 99.2% effective.

Both types of IUDs are highly effective and convenient, requiring little intervention once inserted. However, they can cause side effects, such as changes in menstrual patterns or cramps.

Permanent methods.

For people who are sure they do not want to have children in the future, there are permanent contraceptive methods that involve surgical procedures.

• Tubal ligation (female sterilization): The fallopian tubes are cut or sealed to prevent eggs from reaching the uterus. This is a permanent method with nearly 100% effectiveness.
• Vasectomy (male sterilization): This is a procedure in which the tubes that carry sperm are cut. Vasectomy is nearly 100% effective and is an outpatient procedure.
• These methods are ideal for those who do not wish to have more children or do not want to have children at all. It is important to note that they are permanent and although there are procedures to reverse them, the effectiveness of these reversals is not guaranteed.

Emergency methods.

Emergency contraception is designed to be used after unprotected sex or when the contraceptive method used has failed (for example, a condom breaks).

• Morning-after pill: Contains high doses of hormones that prevent ovulation or prevent a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus. It should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, preferably within the first 72 hours. The effectiveness decreases the longer the time passes.
• Copper IUD: This can be used as emergency contraception if inserted within five days of unprotected intercourse. It is one of the most effective methods for emergency contraception.

Natural methods.

Natural or fertility awareness-based methods involve avoiding sexual intercourse during the fertile days of a woman's menstrual cycle. These methods require careful monitoring of the menstrual cycle and ovulation.

• Rhythm method: This method is based on calculating fertile days and abstaining from sexual intercourse during that period. Its efficacy is 76% with typical use, but can improve with more rigorous monitoring.
• Basal temperature method: This involves measuring body temperature every morning to identify the moment of ovulation.

These methods require a great deal of discipline and are less effective than other methods, so they are not the best option for those seeking high security.

Factors to consider when choosing a contraceptive method.

When choosing a contraceptive method, it is important to consider several factors, including:

• Effectiveness: How safe is the method for preventing pregnancy?
• Ease of use: Does it require daily, weekly, monthly or yearly administration?
• Side effects: Are there any hormonal, menstrual or physical changes?
• Protection against STIs: Only condoms protect against STIs.
• Access and cost: Is the method accessible and affordable in the region where you live?
• Personal preferences and values: Some people may prefer natural methods or avoid hormonal ones.

Contraception methods offer a wide variety of options for people who want to prevent pregnancy or plan their reproductive lives effectively. From barrier methods, such as condoms, to hormonal and permanent options, it is important to choose the method that best suits each person's needs, preferences, and lifestyle. Consultation with a health care professional is crucial to making an informed decision and ensuring overall well-being.