Birth control or contraception is the intentional prevention of pregnancy using various devices, sexual practices, chemicals, drugs, or surgical procedures. Since ancient times, women have used birth control, but effective and safe birth control methods only became available in the 20th century. Some cultures limit or discourage contraception because they consider it morally, religiously, or politically undesirable.

Pregnancy prevention tools are categorized as barrier methods, hormonal methods, intrauterine devices and implants, and surgical sterilization. Barrier methods include using condoms.

Male condoms, when used correctly, are more than 80 percent effective against pregnancy. Male condoms are made of latex, but other types are available for men with latex allergies. Female condoms can be used during intercourse instead of male condoms, but never with one. Female condoms are about 79% effective for contraception. Both male and female condoms are provided over-the-counter (without a prescription). In addition, they are the only types of contraception that protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). 

The second barrier method is the diaphragm placed inside the female’s vagina. It is favorable to apply spermicide to it to increase its effectiveness, which is a chemical that inactivates sperms. It is also available over-the-counter. So, with the use of spermicide, the efficacy of a diaphragm is 90 percent. The female must insert the diaphragm a few hours before intercourse, leave it in place for six hours after sex, and remove it after 24 hours. A cervical cap is another barrier tool. It is soft silicone placed deep inside the vagina; it covers the cervix to prevent sperms from reaching an egg. The effectiveness of cervical caps varies according to sources, but it is estimated to range from 70 to 80%. It is also sold over-the-counter and does not protect against STIs. The sponge is also a contraceptive that is sold over the counter. It is made of polyurethane foam and contains spermicide. The sponge is placed deep inside the vagina to block the entry of sperm into the uterus. Used alone, it is 76 to 88%effective, but once used with a condom reduces the chances of pregnancy and STIs.

Hormonal methods have higher effectiveness in preventing pregnancies. Still, they might have side health effects since it interrupts the natural menstrual cycle by ceasing ovulation, which releases an egg to the ovaries. This kind of contraception indeed doesn’t protect against STIs. The oral contraceptive pill is a tiny tablet taken once daily. There are two forms of this pill: the combined pill contains estrogen and progestin and a mini-pill with only one hormone, progestin. Remembering to take such pills on time is a must since it affects its effectiveness. Taking these pills could potentially have high efficacy when used correctly (approximately 99%), positively affect acne, and reduce heavy period cramps. Cons, conversely, are taking time precision to remain effective; it is not suitable for women who can’t take estrogen-containing contraception and do not protect against STIs. These pills need a prescription.

Emergency contraceptive pills’ name explains itself. It is taken after sex, where a contraception method wasn’t used or has failed, and the female has doubts that sperms have entered her vagina. This pill can be effective for up to five days after having unprotected sex. The sooner it is taken, the more effective it is. If taken in the first three days after sex, it prevents about 85%of expected pregnancies. This pill is sold OTC and has many side effects like nausea and vomiting. The following period may be early or delayed.

The patch is another option. Once applied to the skin, it releases synthetic estrogen and progestin hormones. It is 91% effective with typical use. The female places the patch on the back, buttocks, stomach, or upper arm for three weeks, before removing it for one week to allow a menstrual period. The patches are readily available. Whoever, there is a small risk of skin irritation.

The contraceptive shot (injection) is usually given by a doctor every 12 weeks. It is 90% effective. According to Planned Pregnancy, it may take up to 10 months, or sometimes longer, for fertility to return after a female stops getting contraceptive shots.

The vaginal ring is another used birth control tool; it is 99% effective but registers a success rate of 95% due to human error. This tiny ring is inserted into the vagina for 3 weeks, releasing hormones to prevent pregnancy. It must be removed for seven days to allow the menstrual period before inserting a new one. 

Intrauterine devices and implants are long-term contraceptives. It is estimated to be 99 percent effective since there is little room for human error. However, they do not protect against STIs. Hormonal IUDs last for at least 5 years before they need replacing. They do not entirely stop ovulation but act on thickening the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from entering the uterus. In contrast, copper-based IUD is hormone-free and covered with a copper wire which destroys the sperms entering the uterus. These IUDs can prevent pregnancy for approximately 10 years! Adverse reactions include spotting between periods, irregular periods, and menstrual cramps.

Implants, however, are a match-sick-sized rod inserted into a female’s arm to protect against pregnancy by releasing progestin hormone, hence preventing ovulation. They are estimated to be 99% effective and must be replaced every 3 years.

Some people decide to be infertile, thus undergoing sterilization surgery permanently. Men can get a vasectomy where the tubes that carry sperms are snipped. Women can have tubal ligation where the fallopian tubes are sealed. The effect of sterilization in both men and women is permanent. In sporadic cases, reversal is possible, but fertility in men is not always fully restored.

In my opinion, more women should use non-hormonal contraceptives because it has a lower rate of unwanted pregnancies, is more cost-efficient, and most importantly it has less critical long-term physical and psychological consequences. Women should be aware of their options and not just assume that their doctor will choose the best method for them. Although most non-hormonal methods are remarkable, the best non-hormonal method is the female condom. This method will give the women the benefits mentioned above and prevent the chances of catching STIs.