What method of contraception is better. The value of contraceptives in maintaining the reproductive health of women. Barrier contraceptive methods for men

There are more than 20 methods of protection against unwanted pregnancy that differ in terms of efficiency. What methods of contraception are the most reliable?

1. Hormonal implant: 99.95% reliability

Contraceptive implants are small ampoules that are implanted under the skin under local anesthesia. Every day, the implant releases a small dose of a hormone into the bloodstream, which suppresses the ovaries and protects against unwanted pregnancy with a high degree of reliability. Valid for 3 to 5 years. The most famous hormonal contraceptive implants: Implanon, Norplant.

2. Male sterilization (vasectomy): 99.85% reliability

Vasectomy is a short term surgery general anesthesia, during which the doctor violates the patency of the vas deferens. Do not confuse vasectomy with castration: after vasectomy, the production of male sex hormones and the ability of a man to have a full erection are in no way disturbed. At the end of sexual intercourse, a man will also produce ejaculate, which, however, will not contain spermatozoa. This means that even with unprotected intercourse with sperm entering the vagina, a woman will not be able to become pregnant. Duration: After a vasectomy, a man will never be able to conceive a child again.

3. Hormonal IUD: 99.8% reliability

The intrauterine device (IUD) is a very reliable method of contraception, which is installed in the uterine cavity and causes processes in it that prevent pregnancy. Hormonal IUDs, in addition to the mechanical effect on the uterus, small doses of hormones are released into its cavity, which significantly increase contraceptive effect. Validity: 3 to 5 years. The most famous hormonal intrauterine devices: , Levonova. Non-hormonal intrauterine devices have a lower reliability (about 99.2%).

4. Hormonal injection: 99.7% reliability

After the drug is injected into the muscle, it releases a small dose of a hormone into the blood every day that suppresses the work of the ovaries. Contraceptive injection provides reliable protection from pregnancy for 2-3 months, after which the injection must be repeated. Despite the high efficiency hormonal injections in preventing pregnancy, this method of contraception is associated with possible side effects in the form of spotting spotting, cessation of menstruation, decrease sexual attraction and with some other menopausal symptoms. Most famous drug: Depo Provera.

5. Tubal ligation: 99.5% reliability

The fallopian tubes are the channels through which the egg enters the uterus. Exactly at fallopian tubes ah most often occurs the fertilization of the egg by the sperm. Tubal ligation is an operation during which the surgeon breaks the patency of the fallopian tubes, and therefore makes it impossible to fertilize the egg. After such an operation, a woman will no longer be able to become pregnant naturally.

6. Birth control pills: up to 97% reliable

Combined oral contraceptives (COCs) are perhaps one of the most famous and popular methods of protection against unwanted pregnancy. The effectiveness of birth control pills is highly dependent on how responsibly the woman approached their use. Subject to compliance with all, their effectiveness is very high. However, even a small mistake (late or missing a pill, taking certain medications, alcohol abuse, etc.) can lead to an unwanted pregnancy. Read about all the advantages and disadvantages of hormonal contraceptives in the article:. The most famous drugs:, etc.

7. Hormonal patch: 92% reliability

The contraceptive patch is a sticker on the skin that releases a small dose of a hormone that suppresses the ovaries every day in the blood. Hormonal patch has high efficiency and greater ease of use than birth control pills. The fact is that the patch needs to be changed only once a week (unlike pills that need to be taken every day). The most famous drug:.

8. Hormone ring: 92% reliability

Hormonal ring is a small, flexible device that is inserted deep into the vagina. After insertion, the ring releases a small dose of hormones into the blood every day, which suppresses the work of the ovaries. The ring is not felt in any way by the woman or her sexual partner. The ring needs to be changed every three weeks. The most famous drug:.

Photo from wusf.usf.edu

At least 16.7 million unwanted pregnancies occur worldwide each year. 15 million of them (that is, almost 90%!) could be prevented if women used them correctly modern methods contraception. Surprisingly, inIn the 21st century, millions of people ignore them or misuse them. As shown recently, women are afraid of side effects, have different prejudices, or they simply do not have enough information. MedNews figured out how (and whether) the most popular methods of contraception work.

"Barrier" contraception

Barrier contraception is a male and female condom, vaginal diaphragm and uterine cap. All these devices physically block the way for sperm to enter the uterus. The sperm cannot meet the egg and fertilization does not occur.

condoms

male condom known to all, but female much less popular. This is a small pouch, usually made of polyurethane, that is inserted into the vagina and held in place by elastic rings. The advantage of both types of condoms is that they not only prevent unwanted pregnancy, but also protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

The effectiveness of condoms is relatively high: according to WHO, with correct use male prevents unwanted pregnancy in 98% of cases, but female - only 90%. In addition, you need to take into account that the condom can break.

caps

Uterine cap and vaginal diaphragm are latex caps different shapes that are placed on the cervix. They will no longer protect partners from gonorrhea or syphilis, but they do not allow sperm into the uterus. Their main disadvantages are the complexity of use (not every woman will be able to put on the cap on her own) and allergies, which can occur due to the tight and prolonged contact of the mucosa with latex.

"Natural" contraception

"Natural" refers to methods of protection that do not require mechanical or medical intervention.

Coitus interruptus

One of the most popular and at the same time the least reliable "natural" methods. When used, the partner removes the penis from the woman's vagina moments before ejaculation. The unreliability of this method is determined by two factors. Firstly, a man may not have time to remove the penis in time (it all depends on his ability to self-control). Secondly, during frictions, not a large number of pre-seminal fluid, which may contain a certain amount of sperm - and disease-causing agents. The effectiveness of the method, according to WHO, ranges from 73 to 96%, depending on the correct use.

calendar method

Another popular and not always effective method. A woman keeps track of favorable and unfavorable days for conception of her menstrual cycle. Fertilization of the egg can occur only within 48 hours after ovulation, and the life expectancy of the sperm in the cervix is ​​up to a week, but often less. Therefore, a few days before ovulation are considered dangerous for conception (the sperm can remain in the woman's genitals and wait for the mature egg) and a couple of days after ovulation. Adepts calendar method argue that it is during this period that a woman should refrain from sexual intercourse if she does not want to become pregnant. The disadvantage of the method is that it is not always possible to accurately calculate exactly when ovulation occurs, especially in women with irregular menstrual cycles.

temperature method

This method just allows you to specify the moment of ovulation. It is not for the lazy: every day, immediately after waking up, you need to measure the basal temperature (inserting the thermometer into anus). Before ovulation, the basal temperature drops slightly, and immediately after ovulation it rises by 0.3-0.5 degrees and stays at this level until the end of the cycle. By monitoring the temperature daily, you can determine quite accurately when ovulation occurs, and in accordance with this, refrain from sexual intercourse on fertile days.

cervical method

Another method to help determine the onset of ovulation is cervical method, or the Billings method. This Australian doctor noticed that shortly before ovulation, the mucus secreted from the vagina becomes more viscous. In this way, "dangerous" days can be tracked. True, due to fluctuations in hormones, mucus can become viscous even in the absence of ovulation, so the method is inaccurate.

Lactational amenorrhea method

The bottom line is simple: in the first months breastfeeding ovulation does not occur, so you can not use protection. But there is a condition: a woman must breastfeed her baby very actively (at least every three hours during the day and every six hours at night), otherwise the production of prolactin and oxytocin hormones decreases, and their “protective” effect disappears. However, frequent feeding is also not a 100% guarantee.

Spiral

The intrauterine device is a common and fairly simple method of contraception. This device, usually made of copper or silver with plastic, is placed in the uterus by a doctor for several years. Copper or silver has a detrimental effect on spermatozoa, and the spiral itself, if fertilization does occur, prevents the egg from attaching to the wall of the uterus (the embryo thus does not have the opportunity to develop). The method is convenient in that it requires almost no effort on the part of the woman, but has its drawbacks - for example, it increases the risk of developing infections and inflammations.

Hormonal contraception

There are a huge variety of hormonal contraceptives, and they work in different ways. In general, they can be divided into two types: containing estrogen hormones (or rather, their analogues) and not containing them.

COCs

The most common method hormonal contraception. When used correctly, it is considered one of the most reliable. Pills contain two types of hormones: estrogens and progestins. They suppress ovulation, and pregnancy becomes impossible.

It is a paradox, but it is with these means that the most fears are associated. Women are afraid of side effects, for example, blood clots: estrogens contribute to thrombosis and increase the risk of thrombosis. In fact, this danger is much higher, say, with smoking or even pregnancy. So if a woman does not have serious contraindications (a history of thrombosis and among family members, a greatly increased blood pressure etc.), the use of COCs is considered safe. However, women are much more afraid of thrombosis excess weight: the belief that you can get better from pills is one of the most persistent. In fact, this has not been the case for a long time: modern oral contraceptives contain minimal doses of hormones, which, although they can slightly exacerbate the feeling of hunger (and even then not for everyone), do not in themselves increase weight gain.

vaginal ring

This is another method of hormonal contraception using estrogens. It is similar in composition and principle of action to COCs, but radically differs in the method of application. A flexible ring is inserted directly into the vagina, where it releases hormones in the right doses that help suppress ovulation. The advantage over COCs is that the ring has almost no effect on the liver, the disadvantages are the relative inconvenience of use: it can fall out of the vagina or interfere with the woman.

Hormonal patch

The hormonal patch also contains estrogens, but is glued to the skin and delivers hormones to the body through the blood.

mini pili

Another group of hormonal contraceptives, they do not contain estrogens, only progestogens. Because of this, they do not have estrogen-related side effects and are considered safer, although less effective. This group includes the so-called mini-pills: these are tablets containing minimum dose hormone.

The principle of their action differs from estrogen-containing contraceptives: they do not prevent ovulation, but cause thickening cervical mucus(mucus in the cervix), which prevents sperm from entering the uterus itself. In addition, progestogens do not allow the inner lining of the uterus, or the endometrium, to swell (without the use of hormones, this naturally occurs in the second half of the menstrual cycle). Because of this, the embryo cannot attach to the wall of the uterus and continue its development.

Subdermal implants

Particularly desperate women may decide to sew a contraceptive hormonal implant under their skin, which also does not contain estrogen. It is installed for several years and dosed releases the required amount of the hormone progestogen into the body. Like mini-pills, the implant increases the viscosity of the cervical mucus and does not allow the endometrium to swell.

Hormonal intrauterine device

Her principle of operation is mixed. It immobilizes spermatozoa and mechanically prevents the embryo from attaching to the wall of the uterus, like a conventional spiral. In addition, just like implants, she secretes daily minimal amount the hormone progestogen, which inhibits the growth of the endometrium and thus prevents the embryo from gaining a foothold.

Chemical contraception

Vaginal suppositories, creams, foams, sponges and tablets that have a spermicidal effect, that is, destroy spermatozoa. Usually, all these funds should be used 10-15 minutes before sexual intercourse. Their advantage is that they also protect against sexually transmitted diseases - but not from all and not completely. The disadvantage is much lower efficiency than other methods. Therefore, they are recommended to be used in combination with other means.

Emergency (aka "morning") contraception

If unprotected intercourse has already occurred, but the woman is not planning a child, then not everything is lost: for some time, conception can still be prevented. There are a variety of methods for this - from folk to hormonal.

Folk methods

A slice of lemon, an aspirin tablet, laundry soap and a solution of potassium permanganate - this is far from full list funds that ethnoscience ready to offer careless lovers. It is understood that citric acid, components laundry soap, potassium permanganate and acetylsalicylic acid(aspirin) acidify the environment, and this kills spermatozoa.

Doctors apply folk remedies strongly discouraged for two reasons. The first is their low efficiency: spermatozoa can penetrate the cervical canal within a few seconds after ejaculation, and before that it is hardly possible to introduce a lemon into the vagina. And the second - side effects: aggressive acid or improperly diluted potassium permanganate can “burn out” the mucous membrane and disrupt the vaginal microflora.

Hormonal pills

There are more reliable way postcoital (that is, used after sexual intercourse) contraception. Designed specifically for this hormonal pills. At the core different drugs lie different substances, but their mechanism of action is similar: they suppress ovulation, and if conception has already occurred, they prevent the fertilized egg from attaching to the wall of the uterus. Tablets should usually be taken in the first few days after unprotected intercourse (the sooner the better), but with each day of delay, their effectiveness will decrease.

It is widely believed that the use of such drugs is extremely harmful, but WHO has repeatedly emphasized that they are safe. This, of course, does not mean that such remedies should be used regularly: they are simply not designed for this.

Emergency coil installation

The same copper or silver coil, which has already been mentioned above, can also be installed urgently - within five days after unprotected intercourse. The principle of its operation is the same: copper or silver has a detrimental effect on spermatozoa and the egg, and the spiral itself prevents the embryo from attaching to the wall of the uterus. After an emergency installation, the coil can be left as permanent remedy contraception.

Karina Nazaretyan

Maria Sokolova


Reading time: 12 minutes

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Most of modern ways contraception does not give a 100% guarantee, especially - more than a third of women become pregnant using one or another method.

What methods for preventing pregnancy are considered the least reliable?

The calendar method and the calculation of safe days - does it make sense?

The basis of the method- calculation of safe days. How are these without dangerous days define? The viability of a spermatozoon is about three days, fertilization of the egg occurs within two days after ovulation . Thus, two days should be added to the day of ovulation (in both directions): for a cycle of thirty days, this will be the fifteenth day, for a cycle of twenty-eight days, the thirteenth. It is believed that it is on these days that there is a risk of getting pregnant, on the rest you can “not worry”.

Flaw:

The main disadvantage is that the method only good for perfect cycle . But are there many women who can boast of such? After all, many factors affect the time of ovulation:

  • Weather
  • chronic diseases
  • stress
  • Other factors

Not to mention the fact that there are women who become pregnant precisely in a seemingly safe period. Therefore, before using this method, you need at least study your cycle for a whole year . According to statistics, every fourth woman becomes pregnant after using the calendar method.

Temperature protection method - does it work?

The basis of the temperature method of contraception
The temperature in a woman (measured rectally) varies in accordance with the stage of egg maturation: below 37 degrees - before ovulation, above 37 - after . Safe days are determined as follows: the temperature is measured every morning for six months to a year (right in bed, at least five to ten minutes). Next, the results are compared, the day of ovulation is revealed, and the period dangerous for pregnancy is calculated. It usually starts on the 4th day before ovulation, ends four days after.

Flaw:

Just like the calendar method, this method applicable only under the condition of an ideal menstrual cycle . In addition, it is very complex in its calculations.

Coitus interruptus

The basis of the method known to all - interruption of sexual intercourse before ejaculation.

Disadvantage of the method:

Unreliability this method takes place even with the complete self-control of a man. Why? A separate amount of sperm can be released from the very beginning of sexual intercourse . Moreover, it remains unnoticed by both partners.

Also, the low efficiency of the method can be explained by the presence of sperm in the urethra, preserved from the last ejaculation. Out of a hundred women using this method, thirty become pregnant.

Douching after intercourse

The basis of the method- vaginal douching with potassium permanganate, own urine, decoctions of herbs and other liquids.

Disadvantage of the method:

This method dangerous not only with a pregnancy that you did not plan at all, but also with such consequences as:

  • Violation of the microflora of the vagina.
  • Infection in the vagina.
  • Vaginitis.

Evidence of the effectiveness of the douching method was not, and is not. It does not protect against pregnancy.

Spermicidal lubricants - how reliable is the method?

The basis of the method- the use of creams, suppositories, jellies and foams with spermicides. These funds have a double effect:

  • Filler creates mechanical boundary .
  • Special Component eliminates spermatozoa .

Flaw:

Of the hundred percent of women who use spermicides, one in three becomes pregnant. That is, the method is not 100% effective. The following disadvantages of the method should also be noted:

  • Certain types of spermicides Lose effectiveness with regular use due to the organisms of both partners getting used to them.
  • Spermicides considered dangerous due to the content of nonoxynol-9 which causes destruction of the skin. And cracks in the genitals are a direct path for infection.
  • Violation of the instructions for the use of spermicides drastically increases the risk of pregnancy .

When do oral contraceptives fail?

The basis of the method- regular intake hormonal drugs (tablets). Usually, out of a hundred percent of women who practice this method of protection against pregnancy, five percent become pregnant.

Disadvantage of the method:

  • Bad memory often causes pregnancy: I forgot to take a pill, and the concentration in the body of a substance necessary for protection decreases. And by the way, you need to drink them constantly and for a long time .
  • It should also be noted main disadvantage such tablets. Namely - effects on the body , even under the condition that these will be fourth-generation hormones. Possible consequences- metabolic disorders, weight gain,.
  • Parallel.
  • Many medicines reduce or even eliminate the efficiency this protection against pregnancy.
  • This method of contraception does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases .

Our people have always been cunning for invention, as a result of which, since ancient times, many of their own "home" methods of contraception have appeared among the people, which, of course, are absolutely useless.

The most unreliable and dangerous contraception - folk methods

  • A tampon in the vagina during intercourse. Ineffective and dangerous: violation of the microflora of the vagina, the risk of injury, and there is no need to talk about dubious pleasure for both partners. As for the effect, a tampon will not protect against pregnancy.
  • Lactation. It is believed that during this period it is impossible to get pregnant. Of course, given that the menstrual cycle after childbirth does not improve immediately, the risk of becoming pregnant is reduced, but certainly not excluded. And guessing whether your reproductive system has already woken up is impossible. Many breastfeeding mothers, naively believing that they are "protected by lactation", became pregnant within a couple of months after giving birth. Therefore, to hope that you will be "carried away", at least, imprudently.
  • Gynecological diseases. This is another mythical "protection" against pregnancy. In fact, only one female disease excludes the risk of becoming pregnant - this.
  • Vaginal shower. Another tale that a strong pressure of water, which is used to wash the vagina after intercourse, is able to "wash away" the spermatozoa. Don't believe. While you were running from the bed to the bathroom, the spermatozoa could already “jump” to the cherished egg.
  • Lemon inside. The myth that the creation is in the vagina acid environment ensures the death of spermatozoa. What naive women do not use - both lemon slices, and citric acid in powder and boric acid, and even askorbinki! The only effect of this procedure is an internal burn of the mucosa with an overdose of acid.
  • Decoctions of herbs.“And my grandmother (girlfriend ...) advised me ...”. This popular method is not even worth commenting on. Can you imagine how much you need to drink this (any) decoction, and what concentration should it be in order to “drown” all the spermatozoa in it? This can also include infusion bay leaf after sex and beetroot juice- gastronomic, but useless.
  • A remnant of laundry soap inserted into the vagina. Likewise. No effect, except for the violation of microflora, bacterial vaginosis and other "pleasures".
  • Douching. As a rule, young inventors use this method, using Pepsi-Cola, urine, potassium permanganate, etc. as a protective agent. The use of Pepsi-Cola (which, by the way, can remove scale from a kettle) leads to diseases of the vagina. This is quite strong Chemical substance, which does not save from pregnancy. Urine has no contraceptive properties either. But there is a possibility to bring an infection along with urine. As for potassium permanganate, its contraceptive effect is so small that such douching will not help pregnancy. A strong concentration of potassium permanganate will cause a very serious burn of the mucosa.
  • An aspirin tablet inserted into the vagina after sex. Extremely low efficiency of the method. Equivalent to the method with potassium permanganate.
  • Jump after sex. With the same success, you can drink a cup of coffee and smoke after sex. spermatozoa are not dice, they cannot be shaken out of the vagina. And the speed of their movement, by the way, is three millimeters per minute.
  • Soak your feet in mustard. Absolutely pointless process. Yes, and it's hard to imagine how a girl, after an act of love, rushes for a basin to soar her legs.
  • Rubbing the head of the penis with cologne before intercourse. Inefficient. In addition, one should remember those “unforgettable” sensations that await a man after this procedure.
  • “You won’t get pregnant during your period!” Absolute lie. No, for many women, menstruation is indeed a period in which it is impossible to get pregnant. But there are so many exceptions that menstruation is considered protection, according to at least, unreasonable. Especially considering the fact that the survival of spermatozoa in the uterine mucosa is up to three days. These "tailed" are very, very tenacious.

In such a matter as protection against unwanted pregnancy, trust dubious folk methods not worth it.

We do not live in ancient times, and today every woman has the opportunity go for a consultation with a specialist and choose for yourself perfect option contraception .

Sexual intercourse is a link between a woman and a man, between whom there is sympathy and feelings for each other. At a certain stage of the relationship, the question arises of the need for contraception, in order to prevent unwanted pregnancy or to protect health. The modern industry of such products offers a wide selection of all kinds of contraceptives, which differ in many ways.

As for men, the list of means and methods of contraception is extremely small, which cannot be said about opposite field. Due to the complex structure of the female reproductive system and individual anatomical features, contraceptives may differ in terms of effectiveness, method of application, mechanism of protection, and also have a number of contraindications and side effects. But 100% guarantee can give best method contraceptive - lack of sexual intercourse.

What are the types of contraceptives?

In order to pick best contraceptives for women, you should visit a medical specialist, as well as read the recommendations from the World Health Organization. All means and methods of protection can be divided into two groups - female contraceptives and male contraceptives.

The best contraceptives for women

Most of the responsibility for planning pregnancy and its occurrence, as well as for preventing unplanned pregnancies rests with women. To date, the contraceptive industry distinguishes the following types of contraceptives for them:

  1. Natural ways to prevent pregnancy, namely the calculation of the period of ovulation when a woman's body is preparing for fertilization. For this, it is possible to the following measures- use a calendar, periodically measure basal temperature, track the nature of cervical mucus.
  • Advantages: minimum costs, no impact on the body and health, no contraindications and side effects.
  • Disadvantages: low efficiency and accuracy, lack of protection against sexual diseases, the need for discipline and constant counting of days.
  1. Lactational amenorrhea method, which assumes physiological processes during which the hormone prolactin prevents ovulation from occurring. To do this, a woman needs to breastfeed her baby 8-9 times a day. That is why women during lactation do not observe menstruation, which means they cannot become pregnant.
  • Pros: 99% accuracy, no relationship with sexual intercourse, the technique helps the uterus recover contractility after childbirth, prevents oncology of the mammary glands, is useful for the baby, and also does not require financial investments.
  • Cons: the technique is valid only six months after childbirth, it does not prevent sexual ailments.
  1. Barrier protection or local contraceptives:
  • condom for women- a cover made of polyurethane, which is inserted into the vagina for a period of 7-8 hours, preventing pregnancy and sexual diseases. Minuses - low level efficiency, high price, discomfort during use.
  • Caps and Diaphragms- rubber contraceptives that a specialist puts on the cervix, thereby mechanically preventing sperm and bacteria from entering the genitals. Cons - the presence of contraindications, the need to consult a doctor.
  • Spermicides- suppositories and tampons, tablets, aerosols and gels, the composition of which suggests the presence of spermicides, that is, a chemical component that envelops the cervix, while destroying spermatozoa. Pros - moisturizing antimicrobial action, local safe influence that does not destroy hormonal background and microflora of the genital organs. Cons - 70% protection against pregnancy, side effects in the form of burning and itching, the effect of the remedy lasts 1-2 hours, lack of protection against sexual diseases.
  1. Hormonal remedies- the best contraceptives, according to gynecologists for women young age and ladies after 40 years, namely birth control pills, the composition of which suggests the presence of two hormones - progestogen and estrogen. Two of these hormones not only suppress the process of ovulation, but also reduce the mobility of spermatozoa that enter the vagina.
  • Pluses - the effectiveness of 99.8% protection against pregnancy, regulation of the menstrual cycle, oncoprotective efficiency, improvement of the skin.
  • Minuses - big list contraindications, as well as side effects, the need for strict systematic pill intake, cost, impact on libido.
  1. Alternative hormonal contraceptives or new generation contraceptives, which suggest other ways of taking estrogen and progestogen:
  • vaginal ring, which is placed in the vagina for 3 weeks, after which it is removed for a week for menstruation (pluses - lack of systematic use, minuses - discomfort from the sexual partner);
  • hormonal patches- the agent is attached to the cleansed skin of the shoulder, upper torso or buttocks, three patches for three weeks, after which a week break is carried out at the time of menstruation (pluses - local effect, young women can use the remedy even after 35 years, minuses - inaccuracy in dosages , inaccuracy in the level of protection against pregnancy);
  • hormonal implant- a silicone capsule is injected under the skin layer, after which the woman is protected from pregnancy for a period of 3-5 years (pluses - long term protection, cons - the remedy is contraindicated for a girl who has not given birth, can cause allergies).
  1. Progestogen contraception, the best protection for breastfeeding women. It's about about tablets and solutions that are found intramuscularly. Tablets must be taken strictly every evening at the same time for three weeks in a row, after which a week-long break is taken. The injection has instant action, which is stored for another 2-3 months. Cons of injections - possible weight gain up to 2-3 kg, lack of menstruation, inability to become pregnant within 6-12 months.
  2. Intrauterine birth control pills - plastic flexible frame with copper winding and copper sleeves, as well as a special vaginal coil. Such a tool is introduced only by a gynecologist, after which it becomes impossible to attach a fertilized egg, in addition, the spiral guarantees hormonal contraceptive effect. Intrauterine contraceptives can be used only after childbirth, they are prohibited for women who have not given birth.
  • Pluses - a long period of action of 3-5 years, inexpensive cost, no effect on the body.
  • Cons - painful and heavy periods, lack of protection against sexual diseases, complication of existing diseases.
  1. Sterilization surgically - the best method due to 100% protection against unwanted pregnancy, but a completely irreversible process. Experts advise resorting to this method only for women after 35 years.

Male contraceptives

To date medical practice involves such types of contraceptives for men as condoms and surgical sterilization.

  • condoms- the best method of protection for men due to ease of use and availability. Advantages of a condom - 100% accurate protection against pregnancy and any sexual diseases, low cost, no contraindications and side effects. Cons - reduced sensitivity of the penis, the possibility of developing allergies.
  • Sterilization- vasectomy with the help of a surgeon who ligates the vas deferens of a man, after which the ejaculate does not receive sperm. Pros - 99% protection against pregnancy, no effect on erection and potency. Cons - the irreversibility of the procedure.

Regardless of gender and age, no one but a doctor will be able to choose better suitable look contraception. medical specialist will be able to advise on the contraindications, features and risks of each remedy. Most of these options can only be applied after examination and analysis of the patient.

So, the best method of contraception is

As for what is the best contraceptive method for men, everything is simple. Condoms are considered the only option used, although they have a number of disadvantages. Sterilization is the most effective, but doctors can approve such a cardinal method only if there are good reasons for that. It must be remembered that a vasectomy has no way back, if a man becomes infertile, it will be impossible to restore reproductive function.

As for the women from a huge list types of contraceptives, you can make a small rating of the most popular and effective means protection:

  • the most accurate way to protect against pregnancy is hormonal drugs;
  • most versatile and conservative way contraception - natural method protection and method of lactational amenorrhea;
  • the most popular method of protection among women is spermicides;
  • 100% protection against pregnancy - sterilization.

Pick up better ways protection against unwanted pregnancy, as well as diseases that are transmitted through sexual intercourse, it is possible, taking into account the recommendations of the doctor, age and individual characteristics organism, state of health, hormonal levels and the work of the genitourinary system.

Rating of contraceptives by level of protection against pregnancy

You can also help in choosing a reliable method of contraception by the percentage of reliability of protection against unwanted pregnancy. Specialists studied all types of male and women's funds contraception, after which the following top list was compiled:

  • 100% - sterilization;
  • 99.4% - Plaster "Evra";
  • 99% - ring "NovaRing";
  • 98% - condoms;
  • 97% - postcoital tablets;
  • 96.5-97% - hormonal injections;
  • 95% - female condoms;
  • 85-95% - diaphragms and caps;
  • 75-80% - chemical contraceptives(tampons, creams and suppositories for vaginal administration);
  • 75-80% - intrauterine devices.

It should be remembered that the predetermining factor in the choice of means of protection should not be its percentage of protection. Only the doctor's recommendations and examination of the patient can find such an option that will not provide negative impact on the body.

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Contraceptives

Contraceptives are traditionally divided into mechanical, biological and chemical. Miscellaneous naturally have varying degrees efficiency. Virtually none of the methods of preventing pregnancy (except for sexual abstinence) can not give a 100% guarantee. Quite often, in order to achieve greater safety and reliability, various contraceptives are combined. However, it is best to choose a contraceptive, after consulting with a gynecologist.

In this article, we will talk in detail about the most popular types of contraception.

CONDOMS


Condom (condom) - made of latex (polyurethane). It is put on the male penis during an erection, before starting sexual intercourse. After ejaculation, the condom is immediately removed and discarded. This contraceptive, in addition to its main purpose, also protects partners from most sexually transmitted infections (syphilis, gonorrhea, AIDS, chlamydia, herpes, hepatitis B). The percentage of effectiveness of this contraceptive is quite high - 85-95%. However, not all 100%, because condoms can break and sometimes they are used incorrectly.

SPIRAL


An intrauterine device (it is also an IUD, and in everyday life a spiral) is a convenient and highly effective device that is placed in the uterus. Spiral despite high percent efficiency (98-99%), has a number possible complications. For this reason, the spiral is not recommended for women under the age of 23 who do not yet have children. Only a gynecologist should install and remove this tool after carrying out medical examination. The advantages of the spiral include its long-term use - up to 5 years.

CONTRACEPTIVE PATCH


The principle of the patch is that it is glued to a certain area of ​​the body, and then the hormones are absorbed into the body through skin covering. The effect of this contraceptive is that there is a delay in the development of the egg and the viscosity of the mucus in the cervical region increases. For one menstrual cycle, three patches are usually used, that is, one patch is pasted for seven days. Next, you need to take a week break, and at this time menstruation occurs. The disadvantages of this method include the appearance of secretions (between cycles), headache.

VAGINA RING


This remedy is a transparent elastic ring, which is made of synthetic material and contains hormones that begin to be released only after the insertion of the ring into the vagina. With the help of a complex system of membranes, only a strictly defined amount of hormones is released daily. The ring can be easily inserted and removed by the woman herself. It is used for contraception during one menstrual cycle, which includes 21 days of use and seven days off. Side effects: spotting, nausea, headaches, etc.

LONG-LASTING INJECTIONS


The method of protection with the help of injections is to stop ovulation (the process of the release of an egg from the ovary) due to changes in the mucus in the cervical region, changes in the mucous membrane of the uterine cavity itself, as a result of which the development of pregnancy is impossible. The contraceptive effect of this method lasts 3 months. However, this method also has a number of rather serious drawbacks. There may be problems with bleeding, as well as swelling, headaches, and a decrease in the level of sexual desire. Also, with prolonged use of this method, it is destroyed bone.

NORPLANT


The Norplant contraceptive system is six small capsules that contain the hormone levonorgestrel (progestin). Capsules are placed under the skin, on the inside of the shoulder, after which the hormone gradually begins to be released into the blood. The contraceptive effect begins in a day and lasts for five years. It is achieved by changes in the endometrium, which lead to disruption of the process of attachment of the egg to the walls of the uterus. When using this implant, intermenstrual discharge may occur, the menstrual cycle may also be disturbed, depression will appear, headache fluid retention in the body, acne and pain in the mammary glands.

MALE AND FEMALE STERILIZATION


It should be remembered that sterilization is a method of irreversible contraception, which leads to complete infertility(however, even in this case, we cannot talk about 100% reliability, because there is always a chance that even the operation will not bring desired result). male sterilization- it's quite simple surgical procedure, which includes the intersection and subsequent ligation of the vas deferens. Female sterilization takes place in a hospital and consists in cutting and ligation of the fallopian tubes. Do not forget that, as with any other surgical operation, during sterilization, there is always a risk of complications - bleeding, infection, adhesions.

DIAPHRAGM


It looks like a domed cap made of latex or rubber. It is inserted into the vagina no earlier than 6 hours before the onset of sexual intercourse, while closing the cervix. Also, the diaphragm serves as a container for a special cream that inhibits the activity of spermatozoa. The principle of its action coincides with the principle of the condom - these barrier means do not allow mechanically sperm enter the uterus.

BIOLOGICAL PROTECTION


Biological contraceptives - a way to prevent pregnancy with the help of hormonal contraceptives. With this method of contraception, a woman must take daily pills, which include female sex hormones. After their use, the general hormonal background changes, which in turn inhibits ovulation, changes the state of the intrauterine environment, preventing a possible pregnancy. Efficiency hormonal drugs contraception 97-99%. Oral hormonal contraceptives are combined, that is, those that contain estrogen and progestogen, and non-combined, that is, those that contain only progestogen. You need to select a hormonal contraceptive with the help of a gynecologist. Since there are diseases in which taking hormonal contraceptives is contraindicated.

MINI-PILI TABLETS


These are hormonal pills that do not contain estrogens. Their action is to increase the viscosity of the cervical mucus, which in turn makes it very difficult for sperm to pass into the uterus. Also, these drugs inhibit the maturation of the endometrium, as a result of which it becomes impossible to attach the egg to the walls of the uterus for its further development. Mini-pills are taken without interruption, for the entire time necessary to prevent pregnancy. The main disadvantage of this method is a slightly higher frequency (in comparison with other oral contraceptives) breakthrough bleeding. Mini-pill is a way out for women who are contraindicated in the use of estrogens, including nursing mothers.

CALENDAR METHOD


It consists in calculating, using simple mathematical operations, the estimated date of the onset of ovulation and abstaining from sexual intercourse during the fertile phase (the phase of ovulation, during which a woman can become pregnant).
The beginning of the fertile phase described above is determined by subtracting 18 days from the shortest cycle, and the end by subtracting 11 days from the longest cycle.

Example:
Most short cycle lasts 28 days, and the longest is 30 days.
The beginning of the fertile phase is 28-18 = 10th day of the cycle.
End - 30-11 = 19th day of the cycle.

That is, from the 10th to the 19th day of the cycle, fertilization can occur, which means that these days you need to use barrier contraceptive methods or refrain from sex altogether. The disadvantages of this method include, first of all, its unreliability, since initially it assumes a regular, constant menstrual cycle, which, unfortunately, no woman has.

TEMPERATURE METHOD


Based on the calculation of the fertile phase by measuring the basal (or rectal) temperature in women. Start measurement basal body temperature needed on the first day of the cycle. After waking up in the morning, without getting out of bed, you need to place the thermometer in the rectum at a level of 1-2 cm, and hold it there for 5-6 minutes. The data obtained must be entered into a special chart of your basal temperature. It should be remembered that throughout the entire time it is necessary to use one thermometer, and the temperature measurement should be carried out at the same time every day.

During the first half of the cycle, the basal body temperature is usually below 37°C. 12-24 hours before ovulation, body temperature drops by 0.1-0.2°C, and after ovulation it rises by 0.2-0.5°C (usually up to 37°C or higher). And this temperature is kept at this level throughout the second half of the cycle until the onset of menstruation. The fertile period begins six days before the preovulatory recession and lasts three more days after it ( total duration fertile phase - 9 days).

The advantages of the temperature method of contraception include: ease of use; absence of any side effects; most precise definition days of probable conception when planning a pregnancy.
To the disadvantages: high risk unwanted pregnancy (because a very large number of factors affect the level of basal temperature); the need for daily measurement of basal temperature.

COMMISSIONING


This method consists in the complete removal of the male penis from the woman's vagina before the onset of ejaculation. Coitus interruption is one of the least effective methods contraception. According to statistics, out of a hundred couples who use this method, approximately 20-25% experience an unplanned pregnancy. First, in the process of initiating sexual intercourse, a certain amount active sperm released along with natural lubrication. Secondly, not every man can control himself during an orgasm. Also, when having sex again, you should use a different method of contraception to avoid getting sperm into the vagina. The advantages of this method include accessibility and simplicity, while the disadvantages are the incomplete satisfaction of the partners with the process.

EMERGENCY (aka postcoital, fire) CONTRACEPTION combines methods of preventing unwanted pregnancy, which are used after unprotected intercourse has taken place. Most funds emergency contraception can be purchased at pharmacies without a prescription and used independently, but we strongly recommend that you consult a doctor so that he selects the most optimal method of emergency contraception for you, checks for contraindications to the chosen method and selects the required dosage.

TYPES OF EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION:


1) douching
Douching with various solutions, even immediately after unprotected intercourse, is very ineffective, because spermatozoa penetrate the cervical region within a minute after ejaculation. Also, do not forget that a small amount of active spermatozoa can stand out directly during sexual intercourse - with lubrication.

2) Hormonal contraceptives
The first way to use hormonal contraception is simultaneous reception several types of COC tablets (combined oral contraceptives). The number of tablets required for taking is based on the dosage of the hormone level in the preparations: Miniziston, Rigevidon, Femoden, Marvelon, Microgynon, Regulon - two times four tablets (the interval between taking is 12 hours), Logest, Mercilon, Novinet - two times five tablets. This method is called the Yuzpe method and it is effective for three days after unprotected intercourse. The efficiency of this method is not very high - 75-85%.

The main advantage of this method is its availability, since all drugs are sold in any pharmacy without prescriptions. Side effects after application - nausea, pain in the mammary glands, vomiting, dizziness, headache.

An alternative to COCs is preparations that contain only progestins and do not contain estrogens. The most effective drugs of this type are Escapel and Postinor. Escapelle contains 1.5 mg of the hormone and is used once. Postinor also contains 0.75 mg of levonorgestrel and it must be applied twice with an interval of 12 hours. Minor side effects that may be caused hormonal methods emergency contraception, usually within two days pass.

It must be remembered that after using methods of emergency hormonal contraception, it is necessary to without fail use additional methods of contraception until the next menstrual cycle: spermicides, condoms, etc.

3) Non-hormonal emergency contraception
Mifepristone (Ginepristone) is one of the most effective drugs emergency protection. Single dose small dose this drug in for three days after the unprotected incident happened intercourse causes a slowdown in ovulation (this process depends on the phases of the menstrual cycle), a change in the endometrium, and also prevents the attachment of a fertilized egg.

This drug has less pronounced side effects - for example, the frequency of bleeding is only 15%, compared with 31% when taking levonorgestrel. The effectiveness of this method of emergency contraception is 98.8%. The advantages of this method include the fact that it can be used for a longer period compared to other means of emergency contraception, as well as the fact that after its administration there are practically no hormonally dependent side effects.

4) Intrauterine devices
Another way to prevent an unplanned pregnancy is to use an intrauterine device (IUD). To achieve the desired effect, copper-containing IUDs are inserted within five days after unprotected intercourse.

Emergency contraception is an alternative to abortion, but it is strongly discouraged from being used as permanent contraception, but only in "emergency" situations (maximum once every six months). Because the frequent use emergency methods contraception may lead to violation reproductive functions women.

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