Non-hormonal birth control pills. The latest birth control pills: freedom of choice. Hormonal and non-hormonal, used after the act. Which one is better to use

Women may prefer non-hormonal birth control for a variety of reasons. For some, the use of hormonal contraceptives is contraindicated for health reasons. Someone leads an irregular sex life and does not see the point in hormonal drugs.

At first glance, the idea is tempting - not to risk your hormonal background and not get pregnant. But is everything so smooth, or are there pitfalls in non-hormonal contraception - we will find out today.

If we divide all contraceptives into hormonal and non-hormonal, and discard the calendar method and the method of coitus interruptus, which are unreliable and only conditionally related to contraceptive methods, we will get the following types of non-hormonal contraceptives.

Spermicides or chemicals.

The method goes back to ancient times, when women soaked pieces of cloth or wool with lemon juice or vinegar. This created an acidic environment in the vagina, making the sperm inactive and sluggish, and also destroyed their shell.

Since then, science has gone far ahead, and now there are new generation spermicides that work on the same principle, but are much more effective and safe for a mucous woman.

Modern spermicides come in different forms: tablets, suppositories, ointments, creams, foams, gels, etc. They contain an active ingredient in their composition: benzalkonium chloride (commercial names Pharmatex, Kontratex, Benatex) or nonoxynol-9 (Sterilin, Nonoxynol, Patentex Oval).

These funds are injected into the vagina 12-15 minutes before the planned sexual intercourse. After ingestion, the drugs help thicken the mucus near the cervix, preventing the passage of sperm through it, and also damage the outer shell of the sperm, making them sluggish and inactive, and even destroying them. Sounds creepy, I agree, but what can you do.

There is a myth that spermicides protect against sexually transmitted infections. This is not true. The only thing that protects against STDs is a condom. Moreover, it has been scientifically proven that drugs based on nonoxynol-9, on the contrary, increase the risk of catching an infection, since they can damage the cells of the vaginal mucosa.

The effectiveness of spermicides against unwanted pregnancies is low - only 74%, and even then when used correctly.

Contraindications for the use of chemical protective equipment are reduced to individual intolerance to the components, undesirable local reactions - itching and burning. It is not recommended to use them for colpitis, vaginitis, cervical erosion.

It is difficult to advise which chemicals are best to choose - you need to try well in advance before sexual contact, since one remedy may suit you, while the other will cause burning and profuse foaming.

The advantage of spermicides is that they do not need to be taken regularly, which is convenient if sexual activity is occasional. In addition, the chemical action occurs locally, and not on the entire body.

However, all the pluses are offset by one huge and fat minus: a low degree of protection against unwanted pregnancy. Like it or not, abortion is certainly the most harmful thing imaginable for the female body, both physically and spiritually.

Based on this, I do not recommend spermicides as the main and only method of protection, but only in conjunction with a diaphragm, caps. However, this is no longer so convenient and requires additional skills for their correct insertion and installation.

In conjunction with a condom, the role of spermicides is not entirely clear, since the condom itself (when used correctly) provides 98% protection, including against HIV and STDs. Why then additionally irritate your mucous membrane with chemistry is not entirely clear.

Intrauterine non-hormonal spiral.

Women have mastered this method for a long time. It is known that even in ancient Egypt, in order to prevent unwanted pregnancy, fruit seeds, golden rings, and even bones of small animals were introduced into the uterine cavity.

Modern new non-hormonal coils are simply made of plastic, as well as coated with a special substance, usually gold or copper.

The intrauterine device is installed by a gynecologist in the uterine cavity of a woman. The mechanism of contraceptive action is based on the fact that the spiral creates an unfavorable environment for conception. The sperm cell loses its activity when ingested, and fertilization is also impossible due to changes in the endometrium.

The method has a fairly high efficiency (98-99%), and is also convenient because the spiral is installed once every 3, 5 or even 10 years, depending on its type. However, this pleasure is not cheap - the price of a spiral starts from 7000 rubles.

Cons of the method:

risk of irregular, heavy, painful bleeding;
the risk of developing or exacerbating infectious processes in the pelvic organs, since the spiral is a foreign object in the sterile uterine cavity;
the risk of displacement of the spiral and puncture of the uterine cavity;
the risk of difficulties with the onset of the desired pregnancy after the removal of the spiral, since stretching and deformation of the woman's internal genital organs are possible.

Thus, the use of an intrauterine device, although a reliable method of contraception, is quite controversial due to possible serious risks to women's health. It can be recommended, taking into account contraindications, for women after 30 and after 40, as well as those who have already given birth.

Non-hormonal barrier methods.

These include the good old condoms, diaphragms and caps, that is, everything that mechanically prevents sperm from entering the uterine cavity.

Male condom.

When used correctly, the condom is the most reliable method of contraception (97% effective). It does not have any harmful effect on the body of a woman and a man, it is convenient for irregular sexual activity, and also protects against sexual infections and HIV.

The price of these products can be different, and range from 20 rubles. per piece up to 100-200 rubles. for a good quality condom.

The main disadvantage of this method is the relative loss of sensitivity during sexual contact, as well as incomplete sensations, according to most men.

Contraindications for its use are a fairly rare allergy to latex (the material from which they are made).

The condom is female.

For many, this will be a revelation, but there are also female condoms. This is a special product made of a thin synthetic film, which is inserted into the vagina in advance and fits snugly against its walls.

The disadvantages of the method, according to reviews of those who used it, include the need for training and practice for proper insertion, high cost compared to male products, as well as noise and discomfort during intercourse.

Diaphragm.

This is a special product made of plastic with a ring around the edge. A woman installs it before sexual contact inside the vagina directly on the cervix, which prevents sperm from entering the cervical canal, and, as a result, pregnancy.

Gynecologists recommend using this remedy in conjunction with spermicides to increase the effectiveness of the contraceptive effect, as well as reduce the risk of unwanted pregnancy due to improper diaphragm placement.

As you already understood, the method, although convenient in theory because it does not require systemic application and does not have a harmful general effect on the woman's body, but it requires simply fantastic skill and knowledge of her own reproductive system from the inside, which not every woman can boast of.

In addition, there are statistics according to which the use of diaphragms contributes to the occurrence and exacerbation of urinary tract infections, since the hard ring presses on the urethra.

It is difficult to say how barbaric modern methods of contraception will be considered by our descendants, because the most progressive and safe contraceptives of two hundred years ago look today as an instrument of torture. It is known, for example, that in the Middle Ages, women put iron caps on the cervix, lubricated it with a solution of mercury and lead, and inserted pessaries made of steel wire into it and caused infection and bedsores of the reproductive organs. At different times and in different countries, contraceptives were repeatedly banned either by the authorities or by the church, so devices such as a vaginal syringe or vaginal douche periodically appeared on the market, which were used to cleanse the internal female organs.

Current contraceptives promote the principle of safety and guaranteed protection against unwanted pregnancy. Three types of contraceptives are justified and approved by official medicine: physiological, barrier and drug.

Barrier. Prevent sperm from entering the uterus. The most famous barrier contraceptive is the condom (both male and female). Other barrier contraceptives are intrauterine devices, contraceptive sponges, cervical caps, and spermicides.
Physiological. Assume sexual intercourse on certain days of the female cycle, when the risk of becoming pregnant is minimal. Another method of physiological control is the method of PPA (coitus interruptus).
Medical. Presented by pills, as well as vaginal rings and spirals that release hormones that block the onset of ovulation.

When prescribing a certain method of contraception to a woman, gynecologists often provide her with the opportunity to independently choose the appropriate remedy from a number of similar ones. But how to do this if the same drug has dozens of analogues that are identical in composition and mode of action? The rating of the best contraceptives takes into account the opinion of other women, the cost of drugs, the correspondence between the expected effect and the real one, as well as the presence of additional benefits and side effects.

Please note that the information below is not a buying guide. Need advice with a specialist!

There are contraindications. Check with your doctor.

The best birth control pills

It has long been proven that a prolonged absence of pregnancy can disrupt a woman's health, provoking hormonal failure, as well as mental and organ diseases associated with it. The Frenchman Verne Bullo, a historian by profession, said this back in the 19th century: "If a woman is not regularly pregnant, she will suffer from hysteria and from a whole category of somatic symptoms that stimulate almost any kind of physical illness or mental condition." At the same time, unwanted pregnancy and abortion can cause no less harm to a woman than a prolonged absence of pregnancy.

Hormonal contraceptives are chosen by millions of women around the world as the preferred method of contraception. They do not affect the sensations during intercourse and are guaranteed to protect against unwanted pregnancy and the consequences of its absence. The action of hormonal contraceptives is based on the prevention of ovulation. Scientists have calculated that at the time of birth, the girl's ovaries contain about 1 million follicles that can become eggs, and by the age of 37 there are only 25,000 of them. Hormonal drugs do not allow the body to ovulate, so the woman's ovarian reserve remains full. Meanwhile, hormonal pills have not only advantages, but also an impressive list of side effects, often life-threatening.

3 Lactinet

The best contraceptive for adult women
Country: Hungary
Average price: 675 rubles.
Rating (2018): 4.6

Unlike Jess and Marvelon, Lactinet contains the only active ingredient - desogestrel. Belongs to the category of mini-pills (drugs containing a minimum amount of hormones). Lactinet mini-pills are often prescribed to lactating women with an active menstrual cycle, as well as to those women who are contraindicated in combined OK. Lactinet is one of the few oral contraceptives prescribed for women who smoke, as well as women over 45 years of age.

Another feature of the Hungarian OK is that its protective effect against unwanted pregnancy is somewhat lower than that of modern COCs. For this reason, the drug is not recommended for use by women in active reproductive age (up to 30 years). Otherwise, this is a fairly effective contraceptive that has a smaller list of contraindications and side effects than modern pills.

Advantages:

allowed during lactation;
does not affect weight gain;
suitable for those who are intolerant to synthetic estrogens.

Flaws:

provokes the occurrence of mastopathy;
violates the menstrual cycle during the reception;
causes depression;
causes nausea at the beginning of the course.

2 Marvelon

The cheapest tool
Country: Netherlands
Average price: 1,425 rubles.
Rating (2018): 4.8

Combined contraceptive drug from the Dutch company Organon. Approved for use by women over 35 years of age, as it contains a reduced amount of active ingredients. In addition to the contraceptive effect, it normalizes the volume of secretions and eliminates pain during menstruation. It can be used as a means of emergency contraception, but not more than 1 time in 6 months. The effectiveness of Marvelon as a postcoital agent does not exceed 80%.

According to women who took Marvelon, the drug has a negative effect on the ability to get pregnant if it has been used for many years, so it is recommended to drink these pills in courses. Given the increased risk of thrombosis, it is recommended to be examined by a hematologist, hepatologist and vascular surgeon before taking the drug.

Advantages:

is inexpensive;
normalizes the cycle;
increases libido.

Flaws:

causes acne;
thickens the blood;
increases appetite.

1 Jess

The best birth control pills
Country: Germany
Average price: 922 rubles.
Rating (2018): 4.9

Jess is a combined oral contraceptive from the German pharmaceutical company Bayer. The active ingredients are drospirenone and ethinylestradiol. It is used to protect against unwanted pregnancy, with severe forms of PMS, as well as for the treatment of acne. The contraceptive effect of the pills is based on blocking ovulation and changing the quality of cervical mucus, which becomes too thick for sperm to move.

Unlike other COCs with the same active ingredient, the Jess formula has been improved: it uses the latest (4th) generation drospirone, and each tablet contains 1.5 times less ethinylestradiol than other COCs. For this reason, Jess is less likely than other drugs to cause swelling, mastopathy and weight gain.

Advantages:

eliminates menstrual pain;
improves skin condition.

Flaws:

the cycle is restored for a long time after the completion of the Jess course;
addictive;
reduces libido;
causes migraines.

The best birth control candles

Contraceptive suppositories belong to the category of spermicidal contraceptives. The principle of action of chemical spermicides is to destroy the membrane of spermatozoa: interacting with spermatozoa, the components of the drug destroy their membrane, separate the head from the tail, depriving them of the ability to move. Especially strong spermatozoa, however, are still able to get to the egg and fertilize it. This can be fraught with the birth of a child with certain physical deformities. Such a relationship has not been proven, but many women testify to this. It is not recommended to use such contraceptives regularly, because the acids contained in the candles can have a negative effect on the condition of the mucous membrane in the vagina, as well as on the cervix. Candles are not distinguished by the highest contraceptive ability. According to statistics, 15 out of 100 women who use birth control candles become pregnant within a year.

Thus, contraceptive suppositories are a convenient contraceptive option for women who have infrequent sex. Candles are ideal as an additional contraceptive - when the pill regimen has been violated or during the completion of lactation. The undoubted advantages of this method of contraception are the absence of a systemic effect on the body and the safety of intimate sensations.

3 Gynecotex

The best cost contraceptive candles
Country Russia
Average price: 140 rubles
Rating (2018): 4.7

Gynecotex suppositories use the same active ingredient as Pharmatex suppositories - benzalkonium chloride, so these products are similar. The fundamental difference between Gynekotex and Pharmatex is in cost: Russian candles are about 3 times cheaper than German ones. Some women note that these suppositories dissolve somewhat worse in the vagina and give more foam.

Advantages:

are inexpensive;
do not cause burning;
protect against infections.

Flaws:

dissolve for a long time.

2 Patentex Oval

Most popular remedy
Country: Germany
Average price: 370 rubles.
Rating (2018): 4.5

The main active ingredient in Pantex Oval is nonoxynol. Included in many contraceptives as a lubricant: thanks to its spermicidal properties, it enhances the contraceptive effect of cervical caps, condoms, sponges and vaginal films. When interacting with a sperm cell, it damages its membrane, thereby depriving it of the ability to dissolve the egg cell membrane. The time required for the destruction of the spermatozoon is 40 seconds (10 times more than that of Pharmatex). The drug does not have bactericidal and antiviral properties, therefore it cannot be used as protection against STIs. There are studies proving that nonoxynol contributes to human morbidity with certain types of human papillomavirus.

Advantages:

effective;
quickly dissolve;
have a stimulating effect.

Flaws:

have an unpleasant odor;
cause itching;
foam excessively.

1 Pharmatex

The best birth control candles
Country: France
Average price: 349 rubles.
Rating (2018): 4.8

The main component of the drug is benzalkonium chloride. This drug has been used in medicine since 1935. It has not only a contraceptive effect, but also antiviral (protects against infection with herpes simplex viruses), antifungal and antiprotozoal. The substance has an instant effect on the sperm: its shell is completely destroyed within 10 seconds after contact with benzalkonium chloride. The rest of the drugs in this group require at least 30 seconds. Due to irritation of the mucous membrane of the vagina and cervix, the drug is able to increase the amount of secreted mucus, which has an additional contraceptive effect.

Advantages:

have a pleasant smell;
dissolve in 5 minutes;
protect against infections.

Flaws:

cause irritation;
poorly open;
provoking too much mucus.

The best intrauterine contraceptive coils

The intrauterine device is a contraceptive well known since ancient China. In the past, coils were made from aluminum wire and wood, but today they are made from hypoallergenic plastic impregnated with anti-inflammatory compounds. According to its action, the spiral refers to barrier, abortive and spermicidal agents at the same time.

Decreased fertility. The presence of an inflammatory process in the uterus contributes to the production of proteins that inhibit the maturation of the egg. As a result, ovulation is inhibited and fertilization does not occur.
abortive effect. Located inside the uterus, the spiral negatively affects the endometrium, inhibiting its growth and ability to accept a fertilized egg. In fact, the spiral provokes a miscarriage in the early stages of pregnancy.
spermicidal effect. In response to the located spiral, superficial inflammation occurs inside the uterus. As a result of inflammation, the alkaline environment in the uterus is replaced by an acidic environment that is detrimental to spermatozoa and contributes to their destruction. To increase the acidity of the intrauterine space, copper is additionally used in the spirals, which stimulates the release of an acid secret.
Barrier contraceptive effect. The inflammatory process causes irritation of the cervical canal, which, in turn, produces an increased amount of thick cervical mucus that prevents sperm from entering the uterus.

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a reliable and effective way to prevent unwanted pregnancy, which, however, is associated with the creation of a focus of chronic infection in the body.

3 Spiral Nova T

The most affordable non-hormonal spiral
Country: Germany (made in Finland)
Average price: 800 rubles.
Rating (2018): 4.6

Nova T is a non-hormonal coil shaped like the letter T. Its base is made of hypoallergenic plastic, which is wrapped with copper wire. Barium sulfate has been added to the plastic in order to enhance the radiotransmittance - it allows you to determine the position of the helix during an x-ray examination, if necessary.

Advantages:

not felt by partners during sex;
has an affordable price.

Flaws:

provokes copious discharge during menstruation;
increases pain during menstruation;
reduces sex drive.

2 Mirena

The best hormonal spiral
Country: Finland
Average price: 11500 rubles.
Rating (2018): 4.7

Mirena belongs to the category of hormone-containing spirals, therefore, the principle of its action is similar to that of hormonal pills. The fundamental difference is only in the way hormones are delivered to the body. True, according to some women, the hormonal spiral, unlike OK, does not cause increased appetite, does not provoke swelling and does not cause irritation of the digestive system. Like Multiload, Mirena is installed for 5 years.

Advantages:

normalizes the hormonal background;
inexpensive hormonal contraceptive;
reliably protects against pregnancy.

Flaws:

requires large one-time costs;
causes back pain
contraindicated in the presence of benign tumors.

1 Multiload

The best intrauterine device
Country: Ireland
Average price: 2800 rubles.
Rating (2018): 4.8

Multiload is a spiral made of plastic and copper. It looks like a rounded T with uneven surfaces that prevent the spiral from slipping out of the uterus. Aseptic inflammation in the uterus is provoked by a copper wire wrapped around a plastic carrier. Interacting with an alkaline environment, copper wire releases about 30 micrograms of copper oxide daily. The contraceptive effect of Multiload lasts for 5 years.

Advantages:

reliably protects against pregnancy;
economical;
does not fall out.

Flaws:

provokes inflammation;
increases the duration of menstruation;
causes discomfort after installation.

The best barrier contraceptives

Barrier contraception is the oldest, cheapest, most versatile and common method of contraception. A typical representative of this category is the condom. Less known are contraceptive sponges and rings, cervical caps, vaginal films and diaphragms, as well as chemical barrier agents (candles, aerosols, gels). There are practically no contraindications to the use of these drugs, so they are ideal for those who have intolerance to OK or IUDs. Some of the barrier contraceptives are able to prevent premature ejaculation in men, protect against STIs and allergic reactions to ejaculate in women. The main disadvantage of barrier agents is that they only work when they are used. Our rating includes the best barrier contraceptives - the Nuvaring ring and Pharmatex sponges.

2 Contraceptive sponges Pharmatex

The best spermicide
Country: France
Average price: 65 rubles.
Rating (2018): 4.7

Contraceptive sponges have been used by women for many centuries as a barrier method: in ancient times they were sea sponges soaked in oils, and today they are polyurethane foam soaked in chemical spermicidal compounds. Pharmatex sponges use benzalkonium chloride as a spermicide. Unlike contraceptive suppositories, the sponge has not only a spermicidal effect, but also a mechanical one - it physically prevents the penetration of spermatozoa into the cervix. After installing the sponge, the partners can immediately start the PA, and in the case of repeated sexual intercourse, they do not need to insert a new sponge into the vagina, as it retains its effect during the day.

Advantages:

does not flow;
convenient to enter;
long-term;
has a pleasant smell.

Flaws:

inconveniently removed;
hard to find in pharmacies.

1 Contraceptive ring Novaring

The best hormonal contraceptive
Country: Netherlands
Average price: 1050 rubles.
Rating (2018): 4.8

Nuvaring is one of the methods of hormonal contraception, which, however, uses a fundamentally different method of administering hormones - vaginal. Due to this, the hormone does not pass through the liver and organs of the gastrointestinal tract, therefore it does not have a negative effect on them. The ring releases the minimum required amount of the hormone throughout the day, which eliminates hormonal surges during the day (as is the case with oral contraceptives) and creates an even hormonal background. Another advantage of the tool is the confidentiality of its use: the ring is easy to install on your own, it is not felt during intercourse and does not require removal after. Duration of action - 3 weeks. After 21 days, the ring is removed, and after 7 days it is installed again.

Advantages:

installed once a month;
does not cause nausea;
has less pronounced side effects compared to OK.

Flaws:

sometimes falls out when straining;
causes headache;
provokes the development of vaginitis;
allergic;
enhances appetite.

With proper selection by a gynecologist, modern hormonal contraceptives are almost harmless, but many women avoid these drugs due to fear of side effects and prefer alternative drugs - non-hormonal birth control pills. It's time to deal with the features, advantages and disadvantages of this method of protection against unwanted pregnancy.

Non-hormonal contraceptive pills are contraceptive drugs belonging to the spermicide group, which are used for local protection against unwanted pregnancy immediately before sexual intercourse. Upon contact, the active substance of spermicides (benzalkonium chloride, nonoxynol or another) destroys the spermatozoon in a few seconds to prevent its penetration into the uterus.

Spermicides also have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects: they can protect a woman's body from fungus and some sexually transmitted diseases. Therefore, contraception with spermicides is considered one of the best methods if other means are contraindicated.

It must be understood that non-hormonal contraceptives are not pills in the full sense of the word, that is, they are not drunk. They come in the form of suppositories, sponges, foams, or tablets that are inserted into the vagina just before intercourse.

Benefits of non-hormonal birth control:

no contraindications (suitable for women of any age, can be protected in case of gynecological diseases and for postpartum contraception);
do not harm health;
no need to drink every day;
reduce the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections;
a good choice for women who lead an irregular intimate life (enhance the protective properties of the condom).

Flaws:

used immediately before sexual intercourse;
you can not take a shower for a certain time (for each drug, the interval is different);
in rare cases, side effects are observed (allergy to spermicides and skin irritation);
not suitable for everyday use (with very frequent use, they cause a violation of the microflora and vaginal dysbacteriosis).

Names of non-hormonal birth control pills

1. Patentex Oval (PatentexOval)- is administered 10 minutes before sexual intercourse, the active substance nonoxynol is well tolerated by the body, allergic reactions rarely occur.

2. Pharmatex (Pharmatex)– can be supplied as vaginal suppositories, creams, tampons and tablets. The drug is developed on the basis of benzalkonium chloride, it is applied 10 minutes before intimacy and lasts 3-4 hours. Well protects against chlamydia, herpes, fungi, trichomoniasis, gonococci. If the instructions are followed, it does not affect the normal microflora of the vagina.

3. Gynecotex (Gynecotex)- is available in the form of vaginal tablets, the active substance is benzalkonium chloride. In addition to the contraceptive effect, it has a wide antibacterial spectrum of action. It is introduced 5 minutes before sexual intercourse and is valid for 4 hours. Ginotex should not be used in case of inflammation of the vagina.

4. Conceptrol (Conceptrol)- applied 10 minutes before intimacy, the active ingredient is nonoxynol, supplied in the form of vaginal suppositories. After using the product, it is not recommended to take a shower for 6 hours.

5. Benatex- a non-hormonal drug distributed in the form of gels and tablets. Not recommended for irritation of the vaginal mucosa and colpitis.

Conclusion: non-hormonal contraceptives cannot be used every day, as this is fraught with vaginal dysbacteriosis. Such drugs are considered the best choice for women who have an irregular sex life who want to protect themselves from unwanted pregnancy and genital infections by enhancing the protective properties of the condom.

Modern means of contraception: barrier, chemical, biological, hormonal, intrauterine contraception, surgical - there are a lot of them, but often a woman cannot decide what to choose. And in the end, unexpectedly, she becomes pregnant. We will briefly describe the different contraceptives for women, their advantages and disadvantages.

Intrauterine systems

These are those that are installed in the uterine cavity for a long time. Usually recommended exclusively for women who have given birth due to possible side effects. But we'll start with the benefits.

1. You can not worry about unwanted pregnancy for several years, it has a positive effect on sexual relations.

2. High reliability. Slightly less than 100%.

3. Availability. The most inexpensive intrauterine device costs about 200-300 rubles. Purchased once.

And these are shortcomings.

1. Unpleasant sensations during installation. Some women require local anesthesia.

2. The possibility of falling out and displacement of the spiral, which provokes a decrease or termination of its contraceptive action.

3. Inflammatory diseases. The installation of the system can provoke the penetration of pathogens into the uterine cavity, which sometimes causes endometritis, the occurrence of adhesions in the intestines, fallopian tubes. Accordingly, the risk of infertility in the future increases. Therefore, spirals are usually recommended for women who have given birth.

4. The likelihood of an ectopic pregnancy. A fertilized egg cannot be fixed in the uterine cavity due to the spiral and can return back to the fallopian tube and implant there.

5. Increasing the likelihood of heavy periods. Therefore, non-hormonal intrauterine systems are not recommended for women who have severe cyclic and acyclic uterine bleeding.

condoms

Barrier contraceptives have a number of advantages and can be used without consulting a doctor. Always welcome.

1. Reliability. Almost 100% protection not only from unwanted pregnancy, but also from sexually transmitted infections.

2. Ease of use and availability. Can be purchased at any pharmacy, supermarket. The abundance of models allows any couple to choose the right contraceptive for themselves.

3. Absence of contraindications. Only sometimes they have allergic reactions. More often than not, it's the lubricant, dye, or flavor that's coated on the condom. In this case, you need to try another, ordinary, without "bells and whistles".

But there are downsides too. They are usually especially frightening for couples who have previously used other types of contraception.

1. Negative effect on erection, sensitivity. Usually in this case, a condom with ultra-thin walls helps.

2. Falling off the condom during intercourse. Again, due to poor erection. It happens when a condom is put on with insufficient sexual arousal.

3. Damage to the condom. It often happens if you try to apply various substances in the form of a lubricant to it, which are not intended for this. But damage can also be the result of a defective product. If the condom breaks, emergency contraception is used to prevent pregnancy.

By the way, an intrauterine device can be used as emergency contraception. It should be installed a maximum of 5 days after unprotected intercourse. Naturally, this method is suitable for those women who already thought about installing an intrauterine system.

Spermicides

They have no contraindications and can be used, if necessary, by women who are breastfeeding. The chemical method of contraception also has pros and cons.

Some benefits.

1. Availability. 10 vaginal tablets (or suppositories), for 10 sexual acts, cost about 300 rubles. Sold in all pharmacies.

2. They do not affect the body, like hormonal contraceptives, that is, they have only a local effect.

3. Have some antimicrobial and antibacterial action.

4. Have no contraindications and can be used in cases where no other contraception is suitable.

And these are the cons.

1. Often cause irritation of the vaginal mucosa and glans penis.

2. With regular use, 2-3 times a week or more, the vaginal microflora is disturbed.

3. Efficiency is significantly lower than stated if sexual intercourse is started earlier than the time specified in the instructions. After the introduction of the drug into the vagina, you need to wait a bit for it to start working.

Hormonal remedies

They are considered one of the most reliable and convenient, but at the same time having many contraindications and side effects. We will talk about oral contraceptives. First about the good.

1. When taken correctly, birth control pills are almost 100% effective.

2. Make the menstrual cycle regular.

3. It is possible sometimes to postpone menstruation, to delay its onset, if necessary. To do this, a break that is taken in taking pills for 7 days every month is transferred.

4. Have a positive effect on the endometrium. Also, hormonal contraception is the prevention of the formation of certain types of ovarian cysts.

5. Can be taken indefinitely, with interruptions only for pregnancy. Reception ends with the onset of menopause.

And cons.

1. Sometimes they provoke the development of varicose veins.

2. Should be taken without gaps, and preferably at the same time, so that the effectiveness does not decrease.

3. In parallel with oral contraceptives, certain medicines, such as antibiotics, should not be taken, as protection against pregnancy is reduced because of this.

4. Diarrhea and diarrhea are also undesirable effects, especially in the first three hours of taking the pill.

5. Sometimes taking hormonal contraception provokes weight gain.

6. Spotting discharge outside of menstruation. A common side effect in the first three cycles of taking the drug. If they persist longer, you need to think about taking a drug with a higher dosage of the hormone estrogen.

7. Decreased libido, vaginal dryness. We'll fix it. A longer prelude and the use of water-based lubricants will solve this problem. In some cases, women switch to triphasic drugs or no estrogen at all. It can also help in the return of sexual desire.

And that's not all. A complete list of side effects can be found in the instructions for the drug. But, of course, it is not at all a fact that any of them will affect you or be pronounced.

Ineffective and unreliable methods of contraception

Sex for procreation is a much rarer thing than intercourse for pleasure. That is why not every sexual intercourse should end in pregnancy. It has always been so, but modern contraceptives have appeared relatively recently. That is why in ancient times people tried with all their might to come up with at least some reliable way to deal with unwanted conception.

Undoubtedly, some folk contraceptives worked, but most of them were real obscurantism. Unfortunately, despite the modern development of contraception, some people still try to use the old methods. And this is bad, because an unplanned pregnancy is a great stress for both partners, and there is nothing to say about the dangers of abortion for women's health. We discussed reliable contraception, and now let's talk about the most stupid methods of folk contraception, in order to completely get rid of stupid delusions and not use them as a means of contraception after childbirth and in other situations.

1. Sex while standing. There is a myth that standing sex does not allow the male seed to reach the egg, as it simply spills out of the vagina. In fact, this is not at all the case. Spermatozoa are quite able to achieve their goal. Thus, trying to protect yourself from an unplanned pregnancy due to a standing position, and any other one too, is impossible.

2. Coitus interruptus. The most popular method of folk contraception is interrupted intercourse. However, popularity is not the key to success. The fact is that during arousal, a certain amount of lubricant containing sperm can be released from the male genital organ. Therefore, conception can occur even at the very beginning of intercourse.

3. Lemon. There is such a very unusual recipe for a chemical contraceptive. A slice of lemon is inserted into the vagina and remains there until the very end of sexual intercourse. It is believed that lemon juice will easily kill all spermatozoa and conception will not occur. There is still some truth in this myth: citric acid can destroy spermatozoa. But first, not all. And secondly, exposure to lemon juice can cause serious burns of the vaginal mucosa, penis head, etc.

4. Free week or calendar method of contraception. It is believed that after menstruation, a girl has from three days to a week during which she can make love without fear of pregnancy. Purely theoretically, the way it is, because ovulation usually occurs no earlier than the 12th day of the cycle. In practice, things are not so clear cut. Indeed, in so many women, the menstrual cycle does not follow a clear schedule, and in such cases, this method of contraception is completely pointless.

Sexual intercourse during menstruation is more reliable in this regard, but only if the woman's bleeding is not prolonged. After all, it happens that menstruation continues for 7-8 days. Well, spermatozoa can safely be in an active state in the female genital tract for 3 days. That is, if ovulation occurs on day 11, then the egg may well meet a sperm cell on its way.

But after ovulation, already after 3 days (the egg lives for a maximum of 2 days), really “barren days” begin, this convenient period lasts until menstruation, an average of 7-10 days. That's just not every woman can accurately determine the day of ovulation.

5. Urination after intercourse. This method is more suitable for men, and in order to "expel" the infection from the urethra, which he could get as a result of sexual intercourse. How is the female urethra connected to the vagina? Science does not know this. The method is absolutely hopeless.

6. Vaginal douching. Often, women choose antiseptics for these purposes, such as chlorhexidine or miramistin. But it's useless. These substances can only protect against infections, and even then not always. Well, they are not terrible for spermatozoa. Within 1-2 minutes after sexual intercourse, many quicks will enter the cervical canal. And you can't get them from there.
Well, the most unpleasant thing is that douching violates the microflora of the vagina and leads to the reproduction of pathogenic and opportunistic microorganisms there, that is, to inflammation.

Nevertheless, many women continue to argue that medically approved methods of protection against unwanted pregnancy are by no means 100% effective. There remains only surgical contraception - tubal ligation, which can be done in some cases. However, doctors consider this approach to be wrong; in any case, alternative contraception loses to the officially recognized one in terms of effectiveness. And yet - often seriously injurious to health. Is it worth the risk?

Today, a huge number of hormonal preparations have been developed to prevent the development of an unplanned pregnancy. But which remedy to choose from this variety, so that it is both effective and does not have side effects, confuses each of us. Non-hormonal contraceptive pills act as an effective alternative to hormonal contraceptives.

Today, non-hormonal birth control pills are popular among women. This is due to the fact that such contraceptives can be used by women in the presence of serious diseases (uterine fibroids), which are a contraindication for the use of hormonal contraceptive pills. In addition, these contraceptives can be used by women after an abortion, childbirth and during breastfeeding, as well as when it is impossible to use an intrauterine device. Thus, such non-hormonal preparations are convenient, effective, and most importantly, safe, contraceptives for many women, since they have practically no side effects.

These contraceptives do not need to be taken daily, as with hormonal oral contraception, especially if the woman is sexually irregular. They are used as local protection against the onset of an unplanned pregnancy just before sexual intercourse. It is due to this property that these non-hormonal agents are classified as spermicides.

Mechanism of action.
Non-hormonal contraceptive pills contain active substances that contribute to the destruction and damage of the membrane of spermatozoa, which provokes their death. Such active substances are called spermicides; in the composition of these contraceptives, their role is played by nonoxynol or benzalkonium. These substances not only have a detrimental effect on spermatozoa, but at the same time form a very thin film on the walls of the vaginal mucosa that performs a protective function, and also contribute to the thickening of mucus in the cervical canal, which significantly reduces the activity of spermatozoa. Thus, there is a special barrier that prevents the penetration of spermatozoa into the uterus. That is why non-hormonal contraceptive pills are often referred to as barrier contraceptives. In addition, such non-hormonal contraceptives have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, protecting against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Types of birth control pills.

Pharmatex.
These contraceptives are considered the most common and popular means of preventing unwanted pregnancy. The active ingredient in this drug is benzalkonium chloride. This drug is produced not only in the form of vaginal tablets, but also in suppositories, vaginal balls, cream, tampons. The non-hormonal drug Pharmatex effectively acts within three hours. They have anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and antimicrobial properties, due to which this contraceptive not only prevents pregnancy, but also protects against sexually transmitted diseases. It has a pronounced effect against chlamydia, candida, Trichomonas, gonococci, herpes virus and various fungi. These non-hormonal contraceptives do not enter the blood and milk of nursing mothers, do not affect the microflora of the vagina, do not disrupt the hormonal background and the menstrual cycle. Before use, the tablet should be soaked in water and inserted deep into the vagina ten minutes before sexual intercourse.

Gynecoteks.
This drug is similar in its action to Pharmatex. It has a spermicidal, antiseptic and antifungal effect, which means it protects a woman from the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections. One tablet of Ginacotex is intended for one sexual contact only. It is inserted deep into the vagina five minutes before direct sexual intercourse. This kind of funds are effective for four hours. This drug also does not affect the hormonal background of a woman and the microflora of her vagina, however, it has some contraindications. In particular, these include hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, inflammation of the vagina or colpitis, as well as irritation of the mucous membrane of the vagina and uterus. To enhance the effectiveness of the drug should be combined with the use of a vaginal diaphragm or IUD. It is not recommended to use soap douching after sexual intercourse, since soap can destroy the active substance contained in the drug, thereby reducing its contraceptive effect. You can carry out an external toilet of the genital organs.

Patentex Oval.
The active ingredient in this drug is nonoxynol. In addition to the fact that this remedy has a detrimental effect on spermatozoa, it has antimicrobial, antifungal and antiviral effects. Patentex Oval is inserted into the vagina ten minutes before sexual intercourse. The use of this drug does not cause allergic reactions. These contraceptive pills are used one at a time for sexual intercourse.

Concepttrol.
As part of this tool, the function of the active substance is performed by nonoxynol. This drug also has a detrimental effect on spermatozoa and protects against infections and diseases transmitted by contact. Conceptol is produced in packs of ten. It should also be inserted deep into the vagina just before intercourse, ten minutes before. In the first six hours after the introduction of this drug, you can not toilet the vagina.

Traceptin.
Another effective contraceptive drug that prevents unplanned pregnancy, available in the form of vaginal tablets, is Traceptin. It contains the active substance benzalkonium chloride, which causes the spermicidal and disinfecting effect of this drug. Ten minutes before the start of sexual intercourse, one tablet of Traceptin should be inserted into the vagina. This non-hormonal contraceptive may have side effects such as itching and burning sensations in the vagina. This drug should not be used in the presence of colpitis and