Many women don't want to get pregnant, but they don't use protection all the time because they don't know all the options. I have heard of women not using any protection because "condoms hurt" or "the pill makes me sick." The truth of the matter this is true, the condom, or pill is not for everyone, but there are other options. Women's Health helps us girls out again by giving us a place to find out about all the methods in one place.
We have the option of:
The Pill-the is 98% effective, it works by controlling your bodies hormones which then prevents your eggs from being released.
The emergency pill-other wise known as plan B is a great choose if you got lost in the heat of the moment and forgot to use other options. This is a pill that you take once within 72 hours of the act, but it can be costly so I wouldn't make a habit out of it.
IUD-is a small plastic device that the doctor inserts into your uterus, depending on the type, it can last 5 years or 10. There are two types of IUD, one in which uses hormones the other which doesn't. The up side to this method, no taking a pill everyday. One unpleasant thing about this birth-control is every month you must search for the string to make sure its still in place, this seems to be a little scary to me, but not for everyone. Another downside is that for some women in may increase your chances of infections.
The Ring-This is a small (2 inches in diameter) ring in which every month you insert by yourself. It is mentioned that their are some incidents that the Ring has fallen out or became dislodged, either during sex, or during a bowel movement, but conveniently this can be replaced, without any worries, within 3 hours.
The Shot- is given every 12 weeks which then releases hormones into the body. This method is also known to stop periods all together. :) Sounds too good to be true? Well in my opinion it is. Problems consist of weight gain, depression, hair loss, and decrease in interest of sex, and only can stop after you stop taking shots, and 12 weeks for the shot to leave your system.
The Patch- is a small sticker that you place on your butt, lower abdomen, or upper body that releases hormones into the body. There are some worries with this method because it releases a higher dose of hormones then the pill, so be sure to discuss this factor with your doctor.
The Implant- this small device in inserted in your arm by a professional, and can last up to 3 years. No need to worry for 3 years, no checking and no daily pill. This device releases hormones into the body, it is known to change bleeding pattern, or stop them all together. There are some side-effects such as mood changes, weight gain and skin changes.
The Sponge- is a sponge like material that you get wet and then inserted into the vagina, it can then be removed, but you must wait 6 hours after sexual intercourse. This is not a hormonal treatment, but a spermicide that starts working right away. What many girls do complain about is how mess it is to clean up.
The Diaphragm - is a soft rubber dome that you cover the cervix. It is reusable and many women have no problems inserting it.
The Condom-is available for both men and women to wear, both preventing sperm to enter into the uterus. The downside is that the condom is only a one time use item and many people complain that they are uncomfortable or interfere with sensation. The upside to this method is that it is the only method that prevents against STDs if used properly, but not always a guarantee.
It is important to use what is best for you, don't use what works best for your friends or your mother, but read all the information about each one and make your own decision.
Image source: http://blackliberal.wordpress.com/2009/02/
Edit: 12/9 for easier reading and image added
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