Contraception is an important tool that can help you take control of your reproductive health. Effective use of contraception can help prevent unintended pregnancy, reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections, and support overall health. When you consult Dr. Anita Veerabhadrappa-Meiner Boca Raton, this specialist can give you the information you need to decide which contraceptive method is right for you.
The concept behind contraception is simple: By preventing the sperm from fertilizing the egg, you can avoid pregnancy. Effective contraception through the use of non-hormonal IUD, condoms, and oral contraceptives reduces women’s risk of developing certain medical conditions, such as pelvic inflammatory disease and endometrial cancer. Contraception doesn’t just support sexual health – it has many other benefits too. Women who use contraception can plan for desired pregnancies.
Benefits of using contraception
Now that you know the basics of contraception use, here is a detailed explanation of the benefits of using contraception:
Prevention of unintended pregnancies
As a couple, contraception can help you take control of when you want to start a family. Unintended pregnancy can bring unforeseen financial and emotional costs, so it is important to plan for pregnancies. Contraception can provide the extra peace of mind of knowing your timing is right for having a baby.
Reduced risk of sexually transmitted infections
Using contraception can reduce your risk of sexually transmitted infection (STI). When used correctly and consistently, condoms are the best protection against STIs.
Other forms of contraception, such as oral contraceptives or an intrauterine device (IUD), provide no barrier to STIs and should not be used as a substitute for condoms.
Improved overall health
Contraception can improve your overall health by helping to regulate hormone levels, reduce the risk of certain cancers, and ease painful menstrual symptoms. For example, long-term use of oral contraceptives has been linked with reduced risk for ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, and pelvic inflammatory disease.
In addition, many women find that contraception helps to reduce PMS symptoms and menstrual cramps.
Greater lifestyle flexibility
Using contraception responsibly can help you to enjoy more freedom in your life. Contraception enables couples to plan their desired family size and the timing of pregnancy, allowing them to make choices that best suit their individual needs and lifestyles.
Effective contraception also reduces the risk of unplanned pregnancy, enabling couples to enjoy their sexual relationship without fear.
Contraception options
Below find the various options for contraception:
- Hormonal contraceptives: These include the pill, patch, and ring. These are taken daily or monthly to prevent pregnancy. The best-known hormonal contraceptive is the birth control pill.
- Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. It can last up to five years and does not need to be changed often.
- Barrier methods include male and female condoms, diaphragms, and sponges. They are a physical barrier between the sperm and egg, preventing pregnancy.
- Emergency contraception: This option is available in two forms – the morning-after pill or the copper IUD. It can be used up to five days after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy.
When it comes to contraception, you want to ensure that you make the right choice for your lifestyle and needs. Consider talking to your healthcare provider at MyDoc Women’s Health Specialists.
