Contraceptives. Side effects of hormonal contraceptives. Coitus interruptus and others


Contraceptive methods for women are considered. The names of the most common contraceptives sold in pharmacies are presented.

Contraceptives are means that protect a woman from unwanted pregnancy. There are a lot of myths around hormonal pills. Many people believe that taking them is accompanied by weight gain and the inability to become pregnant in the future. We will try to dispel or confirm dubious information regarding female contraceptives.

Why should women use contraceptives?

If you ask about the most popular contraceptive, most will answer that these are condoms. But this method inconvenient and quite expensive if you have a regular sexual partner whom you trust.

Accordingly, contraceptives are used by women to protect against pregnancy and to obtain more vivid sensations during sex. Oral contraceptives are used in medicinal purposes and help get rid of skin problems and women's ailments.

What types of contraceptives are there for women?

Types of female contraceptives:

  • Spermicides– ointments or gels containing substances that slow down the movement of sperm. These drugs thicken cervical mucus and prevent male cells from entering the uterus.
  • Spiral– a small plastic or metal product. Placed by a doctor inside the uterus
  • Oral contraceptives– tablets based female hormones. They may block ovulation or thicken cervical mucus
  • Patch- hormonal contraceptive. Hormones enter the body through the skin
  • Vaginal ring– a silicone or plastic ring that contains a small dose of hormones. Set for 21 days. You can do this yourself without the help of a doctor.
  • The natural way– calendar method. Used based on calculating periods of pregnancylessness and fertility
  • Method of interrupting sexual intercourse– before ejaculation, the partner removes the penis from the vagina



Barrier contraceptives for women. Pros and cons

Barrier contraception is a method of preventing pregnancy by using mechanical barriers to prevent sperm from entering the uterine cavity. Barrier contraception includes local chemicals, inhibiting sperm activity. Barrier contraceptives include: sponge, diaphragm, cap, female condom, suppositories, ointments, gels.

Advantages:

  • Can be used immediately before sexual intercourse
  • Protects against most sexually transmitted diseases (spermicides)
  • High reliability
  • Can be used by parous and nulliparous women
  • Low price
  • Rapid restoration of reproductive function

Flaws:

  • Less reliable compared to hormonal contraceptives
  • Often cause allergies and itching
  • Reduce sensitivity



Chemical contraceptives for women

This is a barrier contraception based on reducing sperm activity by chemical substances. Often cause allergies and burning. High degree of protection and low price. Below is a list of popular spermicides.

Non-hormonal contraceptives for women, list

These substances are barrier contraceptives. Their effectiveness is due to a decrease in sperm activity. Some of the products even kill sperm.

List of chemicals hormonal contraceptives:

  • Pharmatex– a drug produced in the form of suppositories, sponges, cream and gel. This is a regular spermicide that contains benzalkonium chloride, an antiseptic. Accordingly, the drug can be used when having sex with casual partners. Effective period: 3 hours after insertion into the vagina
  • Benatex– Available in the form of vaginal tablets and gel. Contains spermicide and antiseptic. The drug contains no hormones, so the substance does not affect menstrual cycle
  • Pantex Oval- spermicide based on nonoxynol. Has antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Inserted into the vagina 15 minutes before sexual intercourse
  • Conceptrol– available in the form of suppositories and contains nonoxynol
  • Gynekotex– spermicide based on benzalkonium chloride. This is a combined substance that kills viruses and bacteria, and also reduces the motor activity of sperm.



Local contraceptives for women

These are chemical and mechanical means, which either reduce sperm motility or simply prevent them from penetrating into the uterus.

Mechanical local contraceptives:

  • Female condom- analogue of the male one, inserted into the vagina. One edge is fixed on the cervix, and the second will remain outside. Accordingly, it protects not only from pregnancy, but also from contracting diseases transmitted during sex
  • Diaphragm- This is a dome-shaped cap made of latex or rubber. It is placed on the cervix and simply prevents sperm from entering the uterus. Can be used several times. The doctor selects this method of contraception, since the sizes of the diaphragm are different. After childbirth or due to weight gain, it is necessary to purchase a larger diaphragm
  • Cervical cap- a product made of soft rubber. It is placed on the cervix using a suction cup principle. Negative pressure is created due to the compression of the cap, and it is securely fixed. Low degree of protection due to the possibility of the cap being skewed during sexual intercourse.

Hormonal contraceptives for women

  • Preparations containing the hormones estrogen and progestin. They change the composition and viscosity of cervical mucus, which makes it impossible for sperm to penetrate the vagina. Some combined contraceptives inhibit ovulation. Accordingly, the egg does not mature, so pregnancy is impossible
  • Mechanical products with low progestin content: patch, injections and subdermal implants. The patch can be considered the most convenient - it is a relatively new contraceptive. It contains ethinyl estradiol and norelgestromin - synthetic analogues of female hormones. Hormones enter the bloodstream through the skin. Small amounts of hormones are released every day. The action of the patch is based on reducing the thickness of the uterine mucosa, to which the embryo cannot attach. In addition, the patch inhibits the functioning of the ovaries and prevents the dominant follicle containing the egg from growing



Contraceptive injections for women. Pros and cons

In our country, this method of contraception is unpopular. This is due to the high price of the drug and the mistrust of women. The injection is given intramuscularly once every 3 months. It is necessary that the injection be administered on the 5th day of the menstrual cycle.

The essence of using the drug is that it contains progesterone, which thickens the uterine mucosa and thickens cervical mucus.

In addition, ovulation is suppressed. The injections can be used by women who have given birth and those who have not given birth. There have not been any cases of infertility reported in the world after discontinuation of the drug. Although reproductive function is restored within 6-12 months.

Advantages:

  • Efficiency is 99%
  • There is no need to constantly calculate the days of the menstrual cycle
  • Suitable for women who smoke
  • It has medicinal properties and promotes the disappearance of endometriosis, endometrial hyperplasia



Oral contraceptives for women, video

Oral contraceptives are well-known contraceptive pills with a combined hormonal composition. In the video you can watch a speech by a gynecologist regarding COCs.

Video: Oral contraceptives

Contraception for women after childbirth

Please note that combined contraceptives cannot be taken during breastfeeding. They affect the amount of breast milk.

  • Mini-pill
  • Hormonal injections
  • Intrauterine device
  • Remember, after giving birth you can’t have sex for a month, so after the discharge stops you can resume sex life
  • If you have a regular sexual partner, then it makes sense to get an IUD or take hormonal contraceptives based on gestagens. These are synthetic hormones similar in their effect to progesterone. It does not suppress lactation and does not harm the baby’s health, since a very small amount of the drug penetrates into the milk.
  • Previously, it was believed that it was possible to use contraception after the birth of a child. natural method. That is, due to the development of lactational amenorrhea, when there is no menstruation, it is safe to have sex. But now many doctors note the ineffectiveness of the method. Some women experience spontaneous ovulation, which will lead to an unplanned pregnancy



Contraception for nulliparous women

Many young girls are wary of taking hormonal oral contraceptives. they believe that they will gain a lot of weight and become unattractive. This is not true, since most women experience no weight gain at all or a slight weight gain of 2-3 kg.

There are rumors about numerous cases of infertility after stopping COCs. This is also a myth, since reproductive function is restored after 3-8 months. Some girls managed to conceive a child in the first month after stopping contraceptives.

But if you decide to take COCs, then seek help from a doctor, he will prescribe a drug with minimal doses of progestins and estrogens. Most often, young girls are prescribed Novinet, Jazz, Yarina.

They improve the condition of the skin and make periods less painful. COCs are not used for cystic changes in the ovaries and endometriosis.

The following methods are ideal for nulliparous women who have a regular sexual partner:

  • Barrier contraceptives
  • Condoms

Intrauterine device nulliparous girls not installed due to development possibilities pain syndrome and uterine bleeding after removing the IUD.

Emergency contraception is used in the following cases:

  • Rape
  • Skipping a COC dose
  • Damage to the condom
  • Unprotected sexual intercourse

These are drugs that cause detachment of the endometrium from the uterus. Thus, menstruation begins and sperm is simply carried away from the uterus along with the blood. It is recommended to take no later than 24-72 hours after sexual intercourse. Here are the names of some emergency contraceptives: Postinor, Escapel, Mifegin, Miropriston.



The best contraceptives for women over 30 years old. Video

  • Typically, by the age of 30, a woman already has a child and a regular sexual partner. In this case, an intrauterine device is considered the ideal option.
  • An IUD containing progesterone is often prescribed. Such contraceptives are indicated for women with endometriosis and other estrogen-dependent diseases. The most popular hormonal IUD is Mirena. Its cost is high, but its validity is 3-5 years
  • For women over 30 who have given birth, medium-dose combined oral contraceptives are used. They contain more hormones, this is due to the physiological characteristics of the body at this age. Among such drugs are Diana, Chloe, Dimulen

VIDEO: Contraceptives for women

Contraceptives for women after 45 years. Which ones to choose?

  • At this age, many women have chronic illnesses and excess weight. This is why classic COCs are not prescribed
  • For such women, three-phase drugs have been developed with minimal androgenic effect. Often before menopause, mini-pills - progestin contraceptives - are prescribed. Since many women who have given birth experience endometrial hyperplasia and endometriosis
  • It is best to put it after 45 years hormonal IUD Mirena. It will help not only prevent pregnancy, but also restore the uterine mucosa. This device significantly reduces the risk of developing uterine cancer.
  • After the birth of her second or third child, a woman can undergo sterilization. This is a tubal ligation operation. Now this operation is performed without the use of scalpels, using laparoscopy.



Contraceptives for nursing women. Features of the choice of contraceptives for breastfeeding women

  • The ideal option is mini-pills or Depo-Provera (progestin) injections. They do not affect lactation and do not affect the baby’s health in any way. But in most cases, women do not want to take any medications during lactation, so they use barrier methods of contraception
  • Absence of menstruation during lactation should not be used for contraception. This method only works if you have never missed a feeding, that is, the break between feedings was no more than 3 hours



Female contraceptive pills. Which ones to choose?

  • Low dose drugs. Prescribed to nulliparous girls, they contain a minimum of hormones (Jazz, Novinet)
  • Medium dosed drugs prescribed to women over 30 years of age (Diana)
  • Progestin drugs should be taken if you have endometriosis, endometrial hyperplasia (Norkolut, Mini-pill)

Do not buy birth control pills on your own based on a recommendation from a friend or pharmacist.

The doctor must assess your health condition and only then prescribe a specific drug. What suits your friend may not suit you. If you have endometrial hyperplasia and adenomyosis, you should not take medications with a high content of estrogen. This makes the mucous membrane thicken and the problem worsens.



Folk means of contraception. Recipes

  • Douching with a slightly acidic solution. Usually add a tablespoon to a glass of water acetic acid or lemon juice
  • Calendar method. The periods of pregnancylessness before and after menstruation are calculated. 5 days before and after menstruation are considered safe
  • Rowan flower remedy. To prepare the substance, pour 200 ml of boiling water over a tablespoon of flowers. Leave for an hour and strain. Take 100 ml before each meal.
  • Coitus interruptus method
  • Douching with a weak solution of potassium permanganate

Traditional medicine offers many methods of emergency contraception that cause rejection of the fertilized egg during pregnancy. Almost after using each of these remedies, the woman is taken away by ambulance from uterine bleeding. Cleaning is carried out in the hospital. Known cases fatal outcome due to blood poisoning due to rotting of the fetus inside the uterus.



The importance of contraceptives in preserving a woman’s reproductive health

Combined oral contraceptives for correct use and prescribed by a doctor prolong a woman’s youth. Oddly enough, after stopping the drugs, even women aged 45-55 years can become pregnant. This is due to the fact that at birth, every girl’s ovaries contain the rudiments of future dominant follicles.

When taking COCs, there is no ovulation, which means that this potential dominant follicle remains until the next time. In medicine, this phenomenon is called Anti-Mullerian hormone. If its content is high, a woman can become pregnant. With a very low concentration of this hormone, a woman will not be able to get pregnant even with IVF, since the supply of eggs has been exhausted.

The effect of contraceptives on a woman’s body

If you take the medications correctly and as prescribed by the doctor, the effect of the medications will be positive. Many of the COCs are created to treat ailments of the reproductive function of women. Try to change your contraceptive once a year, as the body often gets used to it and spontaneous pregnancy may occur.

How to protect yourself without pills and IUDs?

Despite their ineffectiveness, the following methods are still popular:

  • Calendar
  • Coitus interruptus method
  • Douching with potassium permanganate or vinegar solution after sex
  • To be sure, use barrier methods of contraception
  • The easiest way is to use a condom
  • With a regular sexual partner you can use spermicidal gels and suppositories



About hormonal contraceptives you can find a lot of positive and negative reviews. In most cases, negative experiences are associated with the use of a drug that was not prescribed by a doctor, but was recommended by a friend or pharmacist.

  • Often, after miscarriages, low-dose COCs are prescribed to restore the menstrual cycle. After their abolition, many women managed to get pregnant
  • In young girls who have not given birth, their skin condition improves and disappears. acne and menstruation becomes less painful
  • In general, taking hormonal contraceptives has a positive effect on a woman’s health. It's much safer than recovering from an abortion or miscarriage


The final decision on the use of contraceptives is made by the woman. Remember, no amount of persuasion from your partner and the pleasure of sexual intercourse without a condom or contraceptives is worth your health. Therefore, always use protection and consult good gynecologists. Good health to you.

VIDEO: Consequences of hormone therapy

Constantly taking oral contraceptives does not make sense if a woman is not sexually active. It is better to choose methods that have less impact on the body, which can reliably protect against unplanned pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. In pharmacies today you can easily find various modern contraceptives that are quite effective and convenient.

What types of single-use contraceptives are there?

For irregular relationships, one-time products are best. In each individual case they must be selected individually. For women with irregular sexual activity, it is important that the chosen contraceptive has the following properties:

  • reliability;
  • convenience and ease of use;
  • safety of use;
  • availability;
  • protection against unplanned pregnancy;
  • protection against sexually transmitted diseases.

There are 3 main methods of protection:

  • barrier;
  • chemical;
  • hormone.

Which ones are better to choose? It all depends on many factors: personal preferences, risk, contraindications, and the situation itself. Each of them has its own pros and cons, so we’ll try to understand it in more detail.

Barrier method

The barrier method is the oldest and, perhaps, the most widespread among the population, because it has many advantages, such as:

  • relative cheapness;
  • availability;
  • ease of use;
  • quite high reliability;
  • no contraindications (except for allergies to the material);
  • absolute safety for the body;
  • protection not only from pregnancy, but also from infections.

Barrier methods can be used by everyone: nursing mothers, young girls, older women. In some cases, they are even recommended for pregnant women (to protect against infection).

The essence of the method is a mechanical obstacle that prevents sperm from penetrating the cervix. Use requires some attention from partners before and during sexual intercourse. Barrier methods include not only the well-known condoms, but also some other products.

Condoms

Everyone knows about condoms - this is perhaps the most accessible and simple means of protection. Its main advantage is protection against various sexually transmitted infections, which is why the condom has been and remains the number one remedy against unprotected sex. It is the condom that is best chosen as a method of protection during a casual relationship or at the beginning of a relationship when there is no full confidence in a partner. It is easy to purchase at any pharmacy or store. A regular condom is placed on a man's penis and removed immediately after intercourse.

However, this proven tool has its own, very significant, disadvantages:

  • average contraceptive reliability;
  • they can rub, tear, or jump off;
  • decreased sensitivity during intimacy;
  • inability to use if you are allergic to latex;
  • a certain lack of aesthetics when used.

Some manufacturers produce condoms with spermicidal lubricant to increase reliability.

Despite popular belief, condoms can be used not only by men - there are special female condoms that have certain advantages over classic products:

  • polyurethane material is suitable for people allergic to latex;
  • you can insert such a condom several hours before sexual intercourse;
  • you can even go to the toilet with it;
  • he doesn't jump off;
  • can further stimulate the female genital organs during sex.

Unfortunately, the female condom can cause local irritation and is somewhat more difficult to put on than a classic condom (this will require a little practice). The product has two flexible rings - an internal one, which expands near the cervix, fixing the product, and an external one, which remains outside.

After sex, the condom is twisted to prevent sperm from leaking out, removed and discarded, just like a male condom. It is unacceptable to use male and female condoms at the same time - there is a high probability that they will break due to friction.

Vaginal diaphragm and cervical cap

The diaphragm is a dome-shaped rubber product that is inserted deep into the vaginal canal before sexual intercourse so that it covers the cervix. A latex product that is placed directly on the cervix is ​​called a cervical (that is, cervical) cap. The cap is slightly different in shape from the diaphragm, but operates on the same principle.

The diaphragm or cap may cause irritation where it comes into contact with the mucosa. They cannot be used for protection inflammatory processes, cervical erosion, prolapse of the vaginal walls.

To increase reliability, it is recommended to additionally use spermicides. After use, the product is carefully removed, washed and placed in a disinfectant solution - it is reusable and proper care can last up to a year. Be sure to remove the cap immediately after sexual intercourse, otherwise you may cause severe inflammatory reaction and even the development of toxic shock syndrome.

Before purchasing, it is better to consult a specialist to determine the right size, as well as learn how to insert a contraceptive correctly.

Other means

There are also less common products that are nevertheless quite often used in some countries. One of them is the vaginal sponge. It is a concave hemisphere made of porous material, having a loop for extraction and impregnated with a spermicidal substance. The sponge is inserted into the vagina at the cervix about a day before sexual intercourse and removed no later than 30 hours after that. Thus, it combines barrier and chemical methods of protection.

Chemical method

The chemical method means the introduction of substances that are harmful to sperm - spermicides. The main spermicides, on the basis of which a lot of modern drugs have been developed, are nonoxynol and benzalkonium chloride, which reduce the activity and even completely destroy sperm, making fertilization impossible.

Now there are many products in various forms that are inserted into the vagina at a certain time before sexual intercourse. Active substances begin to act in advance, making the cervical mucus thicker so that it is difficult for sperm to penetrate into it. In addition, they create a protective film on the mucous membrane, protecting against the development of infection.

If it was not possible to resort to contraception in time, non-hormonal birth control pills can also be used after unprotected sex - this will significantly reduce the likelihood of pregnancy and infectious diseases(however, only a condom can prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted infections).

Spermicides act exclusively locally - this is the safety of their use even during breastfeeding. In addition, they moisturize the vaginal mucosa, acting as a lubricant. The disadvantages are:

  • low reliability;
  • inconvenient to use (you need to calculate exact time before sexual intercourse);
  • sometimes a burning sensation in the woman and her partner;
  • cannot be used frequently (the composition of the vaginal microflora is disrupted);
  • After sex, you should not take a shower or bath for a certain time (this will reduce spermicidal properties).

Due to its relatively low effectiveness, this method of contraception is best chosen as additional protection or when ovarian activity decreases (during lactation, at the beginning of menopause).

It is optimal to use it in conjunction with condoms: spermicides will enhance protection against infections, protect against damage to the condom, and also act as a lubricant.

Chemical contraception usually comes in the following forms:

  • candles;
  • cream;
  • foam;
  • films;
  • jelly;
  • tampons;
  • balloons.

Which one to choose depends on the situation and type of drug:

  • the most famous drug is Pharmatex, it is produced in various options, the most long-term action(up to 24 hours) tampons have;
  • Patentex Oval and Conceptrol in the form of suppositories are administered 10 minutes before intimacy;
  • Gynekotex - vaginal tablets, having antibacterial effect and valid for 4 hours after administration;
  • Benatex gel will help relieve inflammation of the vaginal mucosa.

Thus, in different situations you can use different drugs: Genikotex is optimal in case of unprotected sex with a new partner, Benatex - for colpitis, if everything is in order and the woman is more or less confident in her partner, then Pharmatex, Patentex Oval or Coceptrol are suitable. Whatever medications are chosen, it is important to follow the instructions exactly and not hygiene procedures certain time after intimacy.

By the way, it was at the creation unfavorable environment the majority is based on sperm folk remedies. Many recipes advise women to introduce an acidic solution into the vagina by douching. It is better to ignore such advice - commercial spermicides are much more reliable and safer.

Hormonal agents

Conventional oral contraceptives should not be used if you have irregular sex life. What hormonal pills are rarely used? There are so-called emergency or post-coital remedies that are created specifically in case of unprotected sexual intercourse.

Having taken pills after unprotected sex, a woman can practically not worry about the occurrence of an unwanted pregnancy, however large doses hormones often have an adverse effect on the body: one tablet can cause painful menstruation and on long months disrupt the normal menstrual cycle. That is why such contraception is called emergency - it is created for use in exceptional, extremely rare cases, it is better not to resort to it more than twice a year.

Single-use hormonal tablets most often contain levonorgestrel - synthetic analogue progesterone. It has the following effects on the reproductive system:

  • delayed ovulation;
  • thickening of cervical mucus;
  • thinning of the uterine endometrium.

If the drug is taken on time, then pregnancy is practically excluded - even if ovulation has occurred and fertilization has occurred, the egg will not be able to attach.

The drug should be taken as quickly as possible after unprotected sexual intercourse: no later than three days later, the first tablet is taken, then after 12 hours - the second. Taking two tablets at once just to be on the safe side can be life-threatening - high doses of hormones can cause thrombosis and other terrible consequences.

Emergency hormonal contraception most often causes a number of unpleasant symptoms, such as:

  • nausea and vomiting;
  • diarrhea;
  • abdominal pain;
  • pain and engorgement of the mammary glands;
  • menstrual irregularities;
  • headache;
  • feeling tired.

It must be taken into account that the contraceptive effect of the pill may decrease after vomiting and severe diarrhea. You need to carefully study the instructions for contraindications, possible interactions with other medications and side effects.

Another common group is tablets based on mifepristone, a progestogen antagonist. This means that this substance blocks the action of the hormone progesterone, as a result of which the fertilized egg cannot attach to the endometrium, and in large dosages, contractions of the uterus occur, expelling it. Mifepristone and medicines based on it (Gynepristone) are taken within 72 hours after unprotected contact to protect against unwanted pregnancy, and even to terminate pregnancy (in very high doses, no later than 42 days of delay, strictly under the supervision of a doctor)

is a very reliable remedy, but it greatly affects a woman’s health, despite the fact that it cannot be considered a hormonal agent (in fact, this substance is only a hormone blocker), so its use unless absolutely necessary is unacceptable. In case of heavy bleeding and pain, it is better to consult a specialist. Strong post-coital medications should never be used as regular contraception.

Whatever remedy you choose, the main thing is to take care of your health in a timely manner. It would be optimal to combine barrier and chemical methods contraception, since they can perfectly complement each other, protecting against pregnancy and infections. In addition, these topical agents do not have a negative effect on the body.

Whenever discomfort after unprotected sexual intercourse, as well as if you suspect pregnancy, it is better to consult a doctor without delay.

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Contraceptives are divided into several types:

  • barrier,
  • chemical,
  • hormonal (including mechanical hormone releasers),
  • intrauterine devices,
  • sterilization.
Contraceptives are also divided into female and male.

Reliability of contraception- this is the probability of not getting pregnant within a year if you constantly (and correctly) use this contraceptive. This Not the likelihood of becoming pregnant after one sexual intercourse.

For example, 98% reliability for male condoms means that if 100 women protect themselves using (correctly worn) male condoms at every sexual intercourse for a year, then no more than 2 of them will have a chance of getting pregnant in that year, of which -for various failures. Of course, all such reliability calculations are only approximate.

All contraceptive methods except sterilization have limited reliability, since each method has failures. How to achieve greater security? Firstly, when using two methods of contraception at the same time, reliability increases dramatically, because it is extremely unlikely that two methods at the same time will fail. Secondly, if there is an obvious contraceptive failure such as a broken condom, you can use emergency contraception, otherwise called post-coital pills.


Barrier contraceptives

Barrier contraceptives prevent live sperm from entering the uterus. They do not have long-term effects on the body of a woman or man. These include:

  • male and female condoms,
  • vaginal diaphragms and
  • cervical (cervical) caps.
Male condom It is a thin oblong latex shell. It is put on the erect penis and protects the mucous membranes of partners from direct contact.

The condom is the most important thing this moment a means of contraception, because correct use reliably prevents not only pregnancy, but also the transmission of infections, including HIV and hepatitis.

Disadvantages: requires a stable erection; may tear.

The use of a condom is under the control of the man, while the negative consequences of improper use - unwanted pregnancy - mainly fall on the woman. Both partners are at risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Many men refuse to use condoms, believing that they reduce the intensity of sensations, obviously without comparing them with the intensity of sensations a woman experiences during an abortion. In fact, there are condoms with special surfaces that improve the sensation of both partners, which are recommended even for men who have difficulty achieving orgasm.

Condoms are also used to protect against the transmission of infections during oral and anal sex.

Reliability: 98%

Female condom – a polyurethane tube with a diameter of 8 cm and a length of 15 cm. Placed in the vagina and protects the mucous membranes of partners from direct contact.

Like the male condom, it prevents pregnancy and the transmission of infections. Can be used for weak erections. May remain in the vagina for several hours.

Disadvantages: currently not sold in Russia.
Reliability: 95%

Vaginal diaphragms and cervical caps.

Caps and softer elastic diaphragms made of various materials (silicone, latex) are used in conjunction with spermicidal ointments. They are placed in the vagina so as to prevent sperm from entering the uterus, and are removed no earlier than 6 hours after the last ejaculation. Reduce the risk of transmission of certain infections. Does not prevent HIV infection. Can be used repeatedly (usually for 1-2 years). To choose the appropriate cap or diaphragm size, you need to consult a gynecologist.

Disadvantages of caps: Less effective for women who have given birth. You need to re-size after giving birth. May cause inconvenience to partners.

Disadvantages of diaphragms: You need to reselect the size after childbirth and with a significant (from 5 kg) change in weight. May increase the risk of certain infections and inflammation of the cervix.

Reliability: 85-95%.

Chemical contraceptives

These include vaginal creams, suppositories, tampons.

One of the easiest to use means, which also have not only contraceptive properties, but also protect against bacteria and viruses, in particular against chlamydia, staphylococcus, herpes type 2. However, this type of contraception is more suitable for people who have irregular sex life , since the antiseptic not only destroys sperm and kills some viruses, but also disrupts the microflora, which can cause vaginal dysbiosis. It is best to use these products in combination with a condom, because their duration of action is short (with the exception of tampons) and repeated intercourse requires reintroduction of the contraceptive. It is also important to remember that upon contact with soap (with any alkaline medium), the active substance of the drugs is destroyed, so all washing before and after sexual intercourse is possible only with clean water.

Chemical contraceptives: Pharmatex (vaginal suppositories, cream, tampons); "Patentex-Oval" (candles); "Nonoxynol" or "Conceptrol"; "Sterilin" (candles).

Reliability: 75-80%

Hormonal contraceptives

Nowadays only women's ones are widespread hormonal drugs for birth control. Male hormonal contraceptives exist, but are still in the research stage and are not widely used.

The principle of action of female hormonal contraceptives is that they prevent ovulation.

Modern hormonal contraceptives come in many forms: pills (combined containing two hormones, progesterone and estrogen, as well as purely progestogenic, or mini-pill), implants(there are none in Russia) and injectable drugs. IN different means contain different doses of hormones. To choose the most suitable hormonal contraceptive, you need to contact a gynecologist and do a blood test for hormones.

Hormonal contraceptives have some contraindications and side effects. But if first-generation contraceptives could cause serious complications, then correctly selected modern means quite harmless. Contrary to popular belief, not all hormonal contraceptives cause weight gain.

Combined oral contraceptives taken every day for 21 days of the menstrual cycle; mini-pill– every day throughout the entire cycle, and it is important to take them at the same time of day.

Injections hormonal contraceptives are taken every 2-3 months. They are indicated only for women over 35 who have given birth, as they can disrupt the menstrual cycle. Injections do not protect against STDs.
Drugs: Depo-Provera, Net-En (Noristerat).

Reliability: 96.5-97%

Hormonal means of preventing unwanted pregnancy include: postcoital pills , or emergency contraception. They are taken after unprotected sexual intercourse and prevent the egg from maturing (and then it cannot be fertilized), or, if it is already mature and fertilized, they prevent it from attaching to the wall of the uterus. Emergency contraception is effective in the first five days after intercourse, and it is best to take it the next day. In any case, you should carefully read the instructions before using.

There are often misconceptions about the mechanism of action of postcoital pills. For example, people sometimes believe that they are "scraping out the lining of the uterus." To be frank, this is complete nonsense.

In Russia, the most widely known of these drugs is Postinor. It quite strongly destabilizes hormonal levels, so its frequent use can cause very serious complications. There are newer and safe drugs(for example, “Ginepriston”), in which the dose of the hormone is much lower. However, it is important to remember that all postcoital medications are emergency contraception and should not be used regularly. At the same time, emergency contraception is much more gentle on the body than even the safest one. medical abortion. Therefore you should not use emergency contraception How the only way protection, but if for some reason unprotected sexual intercourse occurs, and the pregnancy, if it happens, will still be terminated, then it is much better to use emergency contraception.

Reliability: 97%

Mechanical contraceptives that release hormones

These are the NuvaRing vaginal ring and the Evra contraceptive patch.

NuvaRing ring It is made of elastic material and, when inserted into the vagina, adapts to the contours of the woman’s body. The ring does not reduce the sensitivity of partners, does not interfere with a woman’s exercise, and does not affect blood clotting ( varicose veins veins of the lower extremities, which to one degree or another happens from birth control pills), but it does not protect against STDs.

One ring is designed for one cycle; on the 22nd day it is removed, and a week later a new one is inserted.

Reliability: 99%

"Evra" patch Small in size, it can be glued to almost any part of the body. The patch is changed every week and is not used during the fourth week of the cycle.

Disadvantages: Contraindicated for women who smoke 10 or more cigarettes per day. Safe and effective only for women between 18 and 45 years of age. Does not protect against STDs.

Reliability: 99.4%

Intrauterine devices (IUD)

Spirals can be like hormonal, so non-hormonal. But both are inserted into the uterine cavity for a maximum of 5 years, after which the IUD must be removed and a new one inserted during the next menstruation. Only a gynecologist can install the IUD.

Regular IUD prevents the fertilized egg from attaching to the wall of the uterus and, therefore, developing into an embryo; it reduces the vital activity of sperm and eggs.

Hormonal IUD
Constantly releases the hormone levonorgestrel (a synthetic analogue of progestogen), which even more reliably protects against unwanted pregnancy.

Despite its popularity and ease of use, this type of contraception is quite dangerous due to the risk of ectopic pregnancy. It has a long list of contraindications and does not protect against STDs.

Reliability: 75-80%

Sterilization – one of the methods of contraception (not to be confused with castration). Sterilization involves creating an artificial obstruction of the fallopian tubes in women and the vas deferens in men. In this case, neither the ovaries nor the testicles are removed, continuing to function fully. Sterilization does not have a negative impact on a person's sex life.

In Russia, sterilization surgery is permitted only upon written application from citizens who are at least 35 years old or have two or more children.

Reliability: 100%
(for men it reaches 100% one and a half years after surgery).

Disadvantages: performed in a hospital; the probability of restoration of fertility is not one hundred percent and is low in women; Women who regain fertility are at risk of ectopic pregnancy.

Male sterilization
called a vasectomy.
A vasectomy is performed only with the voluntary, informed consent of the man. The wife's consent is not required. The operation is always carried out for a fee.

Currently practiced in the Russian Federation surgical And no-scalpel vasectomy methods.

The surgery is performed under local anesthesia. If there are no complications, the man remains in the hospital for one day. After three to five days he can resume sexual activity. After a vasectomy, men need to use other methods of contraception for about three months, since during this time the semen may contain active sperm. Within 17 months after surgery, the patency of the vas deferens may spontaneously recover, so it is necessary to do a semen analysis for the presence of live sperm.

Currently, microsurgery methods make it possible to restore with a reasonable degree of probability reproductive function in men by restoring the vas deferens.

Scientists are also developing a method of ultrasonic vasectomy, which leads to temporary sterilization (for several months).

Female sterilization called tubal occlusion. It is carried out in a hospital and can be carried out in three ways.

Laparotomyabdominal surgery, incision abdominal cavity reaches 20 cm. This method has many complications and leads to the formation of scars and scars. By medical indications is carried out free of charge.

Minilaparotomy It is performed through a 2-5 cm long incision under local anesthesia.

Laparoscopy
– an operation during which the surgeon makes 3-4 incisions 1 cm long and carries out all necessary procedures using special equipment and a video camera. In the absence of complications after laparotomy, women are discharged from the hospital on days 7-10, after laparoscopy - on days 2-3. The rehabilitation period ranges from a week to a month.

Minilaparotomy and laparoscopy are included in the list paid services. Tubal occlusion is performed only with the voluntary informed consent of the patient. Spousal consent is not required.

Restoring fertility (the ability to bear children) is possible using microsurgery methods, but the success rate of these operations is still low. When artificially restoring fertility in women, there is a risk of ectopic pregnancy.

Today, every couple can control their sex life and consciously plan their pregnancy. The existence of such freedom in life is a huge merit of scientists and pharmacists, who regularly invent more and more advanced methods of contraception. Of course, even the most reliable method sometimes fails. In addition, there are many myths that make it difficult to understand the true reliability of a particular method.

Let's try to figure out which methods of contraception are the most reliable.

Sterilization - 99.9%

The most effective method contraception is sterilization. In men it is a vasectomy, in women it is tubal ligation. These procedures require surgical intervention and exclude the possibility of having a child in the future, therefore, naturally, they are not particularly popular among young men and women. In terms of reliability, sterilization is surpassed only by complete abstinence.

Features: Recommended only for women who already have several children and in case of medical contraindications to pregnancy, because the ability to become pregnant is not restored. There is also a risk of ectopic pregnancy.

Oral contraceptives - 99.7%

Hormonal pills are one of the most reliable methods of contraception.

Their main feature is the mechanism of action on the woman’s body. They have a complex effect on the female reproductive system: ovulation is suppressed, mucus thickens cervical canal, the endometrial layer in the uterus becomes thinner. While taking the pills, the woman’s ovaries “rest”, and the required dose of the hormone is provided by the drug. Thickening of cervical mucus in the cervix prevents not only sperm from entering the uterus, but also bacteria, thereby reducing the risk of infectious diseases. However, it should be understood that oral contraceptives do not protect against sexually transmitted infections. Also, when using this method of contraception, a woman’s blood loss during menstruation is reduced by reducing the inner layer of the uterus. This effect has a positive impact on overall health, especially for women suffering from iron deficiency anemia.

Features: Combined oral contraceptives are qualitatively different from other hormonal contraceptives, since different tablets contain different dosages and combinations of hormones. This allows for an individual approach and the choice of exactly those pills that can solve the problems of a particular woman. Naturally, a gynecologist should select them. Hormonal pills latest generation, in addition to the contraceptive effect, have a pronounced non-contraceptive effect: they have a positive effect on the condition of the skin and hair, eliminate PMS, shorten the duration of menstruation and reduce painful sensations in this period. Of the many oral contraceptives available in pharmacies, we can highlight tablets with innovative dosage regimens 24+4 and 26+2. They shorten the non-hormonal period, which allows minimizing negative symptoms. Also, special attention should be paid to the latest generation of oral contraceptives, which contain the active form folic acid. This component allows a woman to take care not only of her health, but also of the future generation. Once a woman decides that she is ready to have a baby, she can stop taking the pill, confident that her body is already prepared for pregnancy.

Intrauterine contraception - 99.2-99.8%

This type of contraception includes an intrauterine device and an intrauterine hormonal system. Both in terms of reliability and mechanism of action, they differ from each other. The spiral is installed in the uterine cavity and prevents the implantation (attachment) of a fertilized egg.

The intrauterine hormonal system is administered in the same way, but acts differently - it regularly releases a certain amount of hormone, which, acting locally, has several effects: it increases the viscosity of mucus in the cervical canal, suppresses sperm motility, and thins the inner layer of the uterine cavity (endometrium).

Features: The intrauterine hormonal system is suitable for women who do not intend to become pregnant for a long time, as well as for nursing mothers. It is installed for 5 years, however, if necessary, it is possible to remove it earlier. Unlike the IUD, the hormonal system is not an abortive method of contraception.

Hormonal implants and injections - 90-99%

These methods of contraception work on the principle of hormonal pills, only the hormone is introduced into the body in other ways: intramuscular injection carried out every three months (or monthly), a hormonal implant is inserted into top part hands and provides contraception for 5 years.

Features: It is difficult to choose individually, based on the woman’s health status and her individual needs. There are a number of side effects: irregular bleeding, discharge, headaches, weight gain and acne.

Hormonal patch and ring - 92%

The same level of reliability for these two methods does not at all indicate the similarity of their use: the hormonal patch is glued to the skin, and the hormonal ring must be inserted into the vagina independently.

Features: The hormonal patch must be applied every 7 days, starting from the first day of the cycle. The use of a hormonal ring is designed for one cycle. It needs to be installed from the 1st to the 5th day of the cycle, and after three weeks (on the 22nd day) removed. On the 8th day of the break, a new one is introduced. It is the adherence to clear patterns that allows these methods to be effective, so they are only suitable for very organized women.

Barrier methods: condom, diaphragm, cap, sponge - 84-85%

The condom is the only one among all the above contraceptives that protects not only from pregnancy, but also from any infections and bacteria. But its low reliability means that this product often fails (simply breaks).

The diaphragm, cap and sponge are also barrier methods of contraception; these devices are installed in the vagina immediately before sexual intercourse.

Features: These methods of contraception require preparation for sexual intercourse - and, therefore, can significantly reduce sexual desire, cause discomfort and reduce sensitivity.

Calendar method - 80%

Involves mathematical calculations of the days on which fertilization can occur, according to a woman’s menstrual cycle. Thus, during the “dangerous” period, you need to either abstain from sexual contact or use other methods of contraception.

Features: Suitable only for women with a regular menstrual cycle who are not embarrassed by “love on a schedule.”

Coitus interruptus 73%

The bottom line is that a man must have time to remove the penis from the vagina before ejaculation. This is one of the most ancient methods of birth control, but far from the most reliable. Keep in mind that a small amount of seminal fluid may be released during sexual intercourse.

Features: When resorting to PPA, a man is forced to deliberately control ejaculation, and this not only distracts from the process itself, depriving him of the opportunity to experience the full range of sensations for the sake of which, in fact, it happens sexual contact, but is also incorrect with medical point vision. Thus, a volitional obstacle to reflex ejaculation leads to problems with potency and ejaculation (for example, among men with prostatitis, half regularly practiced coitus interruptus).

The lack of reliability of the PAP also negatively affects a woman’s sex life. She also experiences psychological stress, which does not allow her to relax and receive maximum satisfaction during sexual intercourse. According to statistics, among women who have never experienced an orgasm, 50% used PAPs.

Spermicides 71%

Spermicides are chemical contraceptives: vaginal suppositories, creams, tablets, capsules. They mainly contain “nonoxynol” or “benzalkonium chloride”, which have a destructive effect on sperm. A woman should use chemical contraceptives every time before sexual intercourse.

Features: If pregnancy occurs with this method of contraception, this can have a bad effect on the fetus; most often, doctors recommend an abortion. Besides, chemical contraceptives often cause irritation and inflammation of the vaginal mucosa, vaginal candidiasis.

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Contraception is a set of methods and means to prevent pregnancy at a certain stage of time. Contraceptives are being improved every year, and choosing one on your own, without the help of a specialist, is quite difficult. Modern contraception affects both men and women, although contraceptives for women are most often used; it is easier to prevent sperm from penetrating the egg than to try to stop their formation. So which method of contraception is the most effective, and how to make the right choice?

At all times, the most reliable and fail-safe way to prevent conception was a firm female “No”! This method of contraception is still in effect today, but you should not ignore your intimate life just because of the fear of pregnancy; it is enough to select individual contraceptives and enjoy all the delights of sex.

What do you pay attention to first when choosing contraceptive methods?

  • Contraceptive effectiveness.
  • Harmlessness.
  • Ease of use.
  • Guaranteed restoration of reproductive function after cancellation.
  • Price.

Do not think that female and male contraception was invented in the 21st century, history of use various methods goes back to ancient times. Even in the treatises of Pedanius Dioscorides (1st century AD), an ancient Greek military doctor and author of De Materia Medica, there are references to the root of Dioscorea (mandrake), which was used by the Mayans, Incas and Aztecs, and which modern pharmacologists still use when creating a range of oral hormonal contraceptives.

All methods are good in their own way

A huge step in creating means to protect against unwanted pregnancy was made in the 20th century. Hormonal methods of contraception became popular after 1929, when the sex hormones estrogen and progesterone were discovered. But the very first oral contraceptive Enovid became approved in practice in 1960, containing 15 mg of norethinodrel and 0.15 mg of mestranol. The first generation drug was not to the taste of many, as it caused a lot of unwanted side effects due to high hormone content. It is this fact that has given rise to a lot of rumors about the excessive “harmfulness” of hormonal contraceptives, although the latest generation of contraceptives contain a minimal amount of hormones and have few side effects.

Unfortunately, reticence regarding contraceptive methods persists in the 21st century, not only among young people who are beginning to become sexually active, but also among married couples. In some regions of the Russian Federation, where civilization is reaching too slowly, abortion is still considered the most reliable method of not having children. We can talk for a long time about the medical and moral side of artificial termination of pregnancy, but it is better to know for sure what effective modern means exist to prevent the birth of a new life.

Table No. 1. Classification traditional methods contraception

Table No. 2. Classification of modern contraceptive methods

All contraceptive methods are varied, so no single method can be considered the most effective and suitable for any person. Each of the ways to prevent unwanted pregnancy is based on a lot of physiological aspects:

  • Biological (physiological) methods. The characteristics of the fertile period in women are taken into account. Such methods are available, absolutely free and simply involve the absence of sexual activity during the period when pregnancy is most likely. But these methods have a very low percentage of safety; in almost 25% of cases, conception occurs despite following all the rules.
  • Modern methods of contraception. These include the latest developments of protective agents that prevent pregnancy in women. The products are intended for both men and women, although female contraceptives still predominate, as they are more convenient to develop, produce and use.
  1. Intrauterine devices. They affect the mobility of the egg and sperm and prevent the implantation of the fertilized egg. IUDs are highly effective and long-lasting, but the disadvantages include the fact that their independent use is excluded - insertion and removal of the IUD is carried out only by a gynecologist.
  2. Hormonal agents. Acting on the endocrine glands, they suppress ovulation and are highly effective. The disadvantages of hormonal contraceptives include the fact that the means are strictly individually prescribed and selected by a gynecologist. They require daily use according to a schedule, have contraindications and a number of side effects that occur when the drugs are overdosed.
  3. Surgical agents (sterilization). It is an irreversible method, used in both women and men. During surgical intervention The vas deferens or fallopian tubes are blocked, which automatically makes it impossible for the sperm and egg to meet. Of all contraceptives, this is the most reliable, 100% effective.
  4. Male contraception. IN last years began to gain popularity, although the point here is not only the complexity of development special means, but also in psychological aspect. Men have a persistent, unbreakable conviction that by using contraceptives, they automatically become incapable of intimate life. Where such unshakable confidence in “acquired impotence” came from is unknown; experts completely deny this fact. The new product is a male “coil” that resembles a mini-umbrella, which is inserted through the urethra into the scrotum. The tip of the umbrella contains a gel that kills sperm and makes conceiving a child impossible. This method does not bring any physical or physiological discomfort; the man remains fully “competent” in intimate terms.

Certainly, short review everyone known to science Modern methods of contraception will not give complete confidence and a sense of protection; it is important not only to study each one yourself, but also to understand which means will be the most acceptable. Besides physiological characteristics There are vital aspects of the body, stable relationships may include other types of contraception, while in casual sexual relationships each person is responsible for his own safety.

Experts' opinions

What modern methods of contraception exist, how to use them and how each of them works? Only a doctor can answer all these questions in detail, and he will also help assess the risks of using a particular method. It is important to remember that this also takes into account the time elapsed from casual (unprotected) sexual intercourse, the presence of diseases not only of the sexual sphere, and much more. You should not consider contraceptives as something unimportant, optional, used occasionally.

All methods of contraception are divided:

  • Barrier.

The most traditional remedies that were popular in the last century. But over the past 30 years, they have been replaced by more modern and safe methods, and their use has declined. Although, according to many experts, this happened undeservedly, since more modern means carry many complications and have a lot of contraindications. In this regard, it is necessary to improve barrier methods and return them “to operation.”

The principle of their action is based on preventing sperm from entering the cervical mucus; when analyzing the effect on the body, the following points can be noted:

  1. Local effects do not contribute to systemic changes in the body.
  2. Minimum side effects.
  3. A small percentage of protection against STDs.
  4. Do not require the participation of highly qualified medical personnel.

Barrier methods also have a number of disadvantages that cannot be ignored when prescribing:

  1. Less effective when compared with IUDs or oral contraceptives.
  2. Successful application requires constant attention to them.
  3. Allergic reactions to latex, rubber, polyurethane are possible.
  4. Requires certain knowledge of application.
  5. It is mainly used during sexual intercourse or immediately before it, which introduces a certain psychological discomfort.
  • Chemical.

The basis of the action of spermicides is to inactivate seminal fluid and sperm and place a “block” on their path to the uterus. Each spermicide must have one very important property– the ability to destroy sperm in a few seconds. Chemical contraceptives (spermicides) are available in the form of jelly, cream, foam, suppositories and tablets. Modern chemical contraceptives necessarily contain a carrier and a sperm-killing component (potent surfactants), both of them complement each other and fulfill their assigned role - providing a contraceptive effect (Dolphin, Contracentol, Coromex, Neosampuun, Pharmatex, Ortoginal). All these drugs are used both with accompanying contraceptives (diaphragm, condom) and independently, using 10–15 minutes before sexual intercourse, and if there are several coitus, then a dose of spermicide must be added before each of them, which is in some way not very convenient .

A prototype of the above-described means can be considered douching with solutions containing acid (lactic, boric, acetic, lemon juice), but given that within 80–90 seconds after ejaculation, sperm enter the fallopian tubes, this method of contraception is not considered reliable.

  • Biological.

The method of periodic abstinence involves calculating the “missing” days and those on which fertilization is definitely impossible. Despite some difficulties, these methods have not lost their relevance to this day:

  1. Rhythmic (calendar) method. It is ineffective if a woman’s menstrual cycle is irregular; according to WHO, when used correctly, pregnancy still occurs in 15% of cases.
  2. Temperature. Requires daily vaginal temperature measurement to determine fertile days. The method is not widely used, although its effectiveness is relatively high.
  3. Cervical. Or the Billing method, based on observation of natural secretions from the vagina. When the preovulatory days begin, there is a lot of cervical mucus, it is light and elastic. Ovulation is possible up to 5 days after disappearance (reduction) heavy discharge. The efficiency is not very high.
  4. Symptothermal. Combines all three methods described above and requires careful observation and record keeping. According to statistics, the possibility of pregnancy is reduced if sexual intercourse occurs only after the end of the ovulation period. If intimate acts are performed before and after the ovulatory period, the possibility of conception increases 5–6 times.

Each of these methods has its own advantages and disadvantages, but requires certain inconveniences or risks from sexual partners. Despite this, they continue to be used everywhere, but experts still advise paying attention to more modern and reliable methods that have a higher degree of protection against unwanted conception.

  • Intrauterine (IUC) contraception.

They first heard about it at the beginning of the 20th century, but then the IUD was completely different from modern ones and poorly protected women. And only after the 60s of the last century, the Navy firmly entered into life and became very popular. Currently, there are over 50 types of intrauterine devices, which differ in the mass of parameters. Are considered in a great way contraception, but in some cases their use is strictly contraindicated. An undoubted advantage is the possibility of long-term use - 5–10 years, and the effectiveness is estimated at 91–98%.

  • Hormonal contraceptives.

They are considered the best based on effectiveness (100%), but subject to compliance with all rules of use and the absence of missed doses of OK. In addition, before prescribing, it is important to find out whether taking hormonal drugs is allowed for health reasons and age (after 40 you cannot). Self-prescription, as well as the use of OCs from time to time, is unacceptable; this can lead to a serious disruption in the hormonal system.

  • Postcoital contraception.

It cannot be recommended for use as a permanent method, as it is regarded as an “ambulance” remedy in unusual situations. Loading doses hormones cause serious problems in the functioning of the reproductive system in women (development of ovarian dysfunction). The most famous postcoital drugs are Postinor, Danazol, Mifepriston (Antiprogestin Ru-486).

  • Sterilization

The method is completely voluntary, based on surgical intervention (SSI) in men and women. In addition to 100% protection results, it is economical and safe. However, irreversible, it is impossible to restore reproductive function after sterilization. Standard terms carrying out – presence of at least 2 children in the family and age over 35 years. The patient signs the application for DSH in his own hand.

Used “female” methods:

  1. Md Pomeroy.
  2. Md Pritchard.
  3. Fimbryectomy.
  4. Filshi clamp.
  5. Electrocoagulation.
  6. Fallopian tube excision.

The choice of method is made by the doctor according to the medical history and taking into account all tests and concomitant diseases. When sterilizing, the possibility of long-term complications – ectopic pregnancy – should also be taken into account, although the rates of “contraceptive failure” are estimated at 0–0.8%.

For men, the methodology for conducting DSH is somewhat different. A vasectomy involves blocking the passage of sperm through the vas deferens. This is the simplest, inexpensive and reliable method of male contraception. Most men are afraid that vasectomy affects potency; experts reassure on this score: the ability to have sexual activity is not lost, only the fertile function of the sperm itself is impaired.

Implants and injections

Individual modern methods can be considered Depo-Provera or an injectable progestogen contraceptive. This is a long-acting drug with high degree effectiveness, which occurs a day after the injection. The mechanism of action of Depo-Provera is similar to traditional progestin OCs, but experts highlight the exceptional advantages of injectable contraceptives:

  1. High percentage of effectiveness of the method.
  2. There are no estrogen-dependent complications.
  3. The method is easy to use.
  4. Injections are allowed during breastfeeding.

In addition, most women note the presence of pleasant advantages: menstruation becomes less heavy and less painful, there is no PMS and iron deficiency anemia, the risk of developing endometrial cancer is reduced, etc.

There are still a number of shortcomings injectable drugs prolonged action, therefore self-prescription of Depo-Provera is excluded.

Progestin implant for PC administration. The method is based on the use of the Norplant contraceptive, consisting of 6 silastic capsules that contain the progestogen levonorgestrel. Capsules are injected under the skin and provide a long-term contraceptive effect for up to 5 years. Currently, new types of implantable contraceptives are being developed, including those with a resorption effect (biodegradable capsules), which will not need to be removed after the required time.

What are the most effective contraceptives? What will give a woman confidence in 100% protection from pregnancy? The choice of method is carried out independently, but with mandatory consultation with a specialist. It is impossible to say unequivocally which method of contraception is the best, each of them is unique in its own way, but in order for it to work for sure, you need to choose your own method, then you can be sure that intimate life will not present unexpected surprises.