Where can you buy birth control pills. How much do birth control pills cost. How can you get birth control pills for free. What are the options for accessing birth control pills.

Understanding Birth Control Pills: Effectiveness and Safety

Birth control pills are a popular contraceptive method among women. Their effectiveness and safety have made them a go-to choice for many. But how effective are they really?

Birth control pills, when used perfectly, are 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. However, with typical use, their effectiveness drops to about 91%. This means that out of 100 women using the pill for a year, about 9 will become pregnant.

Are birth control pills safe? Generally, yes. Most women can use birth control pills safely. However, like any medication, they do come with potential side effects and risks. These can include nausea, breast tenderness, and in rare cases, more serious complications like blood clots.

The Cost of Birth Control Pills: Breaking Down the Numbers

One of the most common questions about birth control pills is their cost. The price can vary significantly depending on several factors.

• Without insurance: $0-$50 per pack (one month’s supply)
• With insurance: Often $0 (covered under most plans)
• Doctor’s visit for prescription: $35-$250 (often covered by insurance)

Why does the cost vary so much? The price depends on the brand, whether you’re getting a generic or name-brand pill, and your insurance coverage. Some newer formulations or brand-name pills may be more expensive.

How to Reduce the Cost of Birth Control Pills

Is the cost of birth control pills a concern? There are several ways to potentially reduce your expenses:

1. Check if your insurance covers birth control (many do under the Affordable Care Act)
2. Look into government programs like Medicaid
3. Visit a Planned Parenthood health center for potential low-cost options
4. Consider generic versions of the pill
5. Explore online options like the Planned Parenthood Direct app

Accessing Birth Control Pills: Where and How?

Obtaining birth control pills requires a prescription in most cases. But where can you get this prescription?

• Doctor’s office
• Health clinic
• Planned Parenthood health center
• Online (in some states)
• Directly from a pharmacist (in some states)

Do you need a pelvic exam to get birth control pills? Contrary to popular belief, most people don’t need a pelvic exam to get a prescription for birth control pills. Your healthcare provider will discuss your medical history and check your blood pressure, but a full physical exam isn’t always necessary.

The Convenience Factor: Online Options for Birth Control Pills

In our digital age, accessing birth control has become more convenient than ever. Some states now allow you to get a prescription for birth control pills online or even directly from a pharmacist.

How does online prescription work? Typically, you’ll fill out a health questionnaire online, which is reviewed by a healthcare provider. If approved, your prescription can be sent directly to a pharmacy or mailed to you.

The Planned Parenthood Direct app is one such option, offering birth control prescriptions and home delivery in many states. This can be a game-changer for those with busy schedules or limited access to healthcare providers.

Understanding Birth Control Pill Side Effects

While birth control pills are generally safe, they can cause side effects in some women. Understanding these potential effects is crucial for making an informed decision about your contraceptive method.

What are common side effects of birth control pills?

• Nausea
• Breast tenderness
• Headaches
• Mood changes
• Spotting between periods

Most of these side effects are mild and often subside after a few months of use. However, if you experience persistent or severe side effects, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider.

Serious Side Effects: What to Watch For

While rare, some women may experience more serious side effects from birth control pills. These can include:

• Blood clots
• High blood pressure
• Liver tumors

Who is at higher risk for serious side effects? Women over 35 who smoke, those with a history of blood clots, and those with certain health conditions may be at increased risk. Your healthcare provider will assess your individual risk factors before prescribing birth control pills.

The Benefits Beyond Contraception: Non-Contraceptive Uses of Birth Control Pills

While primarily used for preventing pregnancy, birth control pills offer several other health benefits. These additional advantages make them a versatile option for many women, even those not seeking contraception.

What non-contraceptive benefits do birth control pills offer?

• Regulation of menstrual cycles
• Reduction in menstrual cramps and pain
• Improvement in acne
• Reduction in risk of ovarian and endometrial cancers
• Management of conditions like endometriosis and PCOS

Can birth control pills help with heavy periods? Yes, many women experience lighter, more manageable periods while on birth control pills. This can be particularly beneficial for those who suffer from heavy menstrual bleeding or iron-deficiency anemia.

Birth Control Pills and Acne

How do birth control pills help with acne? Some birth control pills can help reduce acne by lowering the levels of androgens (male hormones) in the body. This can decrease oil production in the skin, leading to fewer breakouts.

Not all birth control pills are equally effective for acne. Those containing both estrogen and progestin, particularly pills with anti-androgenic progestins like drospirenone, are often most beneficial for skin issues.

Navigating Birth Control Pill Options: Types and Formulations

Birth control pills come in various types and formulations. Understanding these options can help you and your healthcare provider choose the best pill for your needs.

Combination Pills vs. Progestin-Only Pills

What’s the difference between combination pills and progestin-only pills?

• Combination pills: Contain both estrogen and progestin
• Progestin-only pills (mini-pills): Contain only progestin

Combination pills are the most common type and are highly effective. Progestin-only pills are often recommended for women who can’t take estrogen, such as those who are breastfeeding or have certain health conditions.

Monophasic vs. Multiphasic Pills

How do monophasic and multiphasic pills differ?

• Monophasic pills: Contain the same amount of hormones in each active pill
• Multiphasic pills: Vary the amount of hormones throughout the pack

Monophasic pills are straightforward to use and are often preferred. Multiphasic pills aim to mimic the body’s natural hormone fluctuations but can be more complex to manage if pills are missed.

Proper Usage of Birth Control Pills: Maximizing Effectiveness

To get the most protection from birth control pills, it’s crucial to use them correctly. Proper usage not only increases their effectiveness but also helps minimize potential side effects.

Starting Birth Control Pills

When can you start taking birth control pills? You can start the pill at any time during your menstrual cycle. However, you may need to use a backup method of contraception for the first 7 days, depending on when you start.

• First day of period: Protection starts immediately
• Any other day: Use backup method for 7 days

Daily Routine and Timing

How important is it to take the pill at the same time each day? For combination pills, taking them within the same 3-hour window each day is generally sufficient. However, for progestin-only pills, it’s crucial to take them at the exact same time each day for maximum effectiveness.

Setting a daily alarm or linking pill-taking to a daily routine (like brushing your teeth) can help ensure consistency.

Missed Pills: What to Do

What should you do if you miss a pill? The course of action depends on the type of pill and how many pills were missed. Generally:

• One missed pill: Take it as soon as you remember, even if it means taking two pills in one day
• Two or more missed pills: Take the most recent missed pill and use a backup method for 7 days

Always refer to the specific instructions for your pill type, as recommendations can vary. When in doubt, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Interactions and Precautions: What to Know When Taking Birth Control Pills

While birth control pills are safe for most women, there are certain interactions and precautions to be aware of to ensure their effectiveness and your health.

Medication Interactions

Can other medications affect birth control pills? Yes, certain medications can reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills. These include:

• Some antibiotics (like rifampin)
• Certain HIV medications
• Some anti-seizure medications
• St. John’s Wort (an herbal supplement)

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you’re taking to avoid potential interactions.

Health Conditions and Birth Control Pills

Are there health conditions that preclude the use of birth control pills? Some health conditions may increase the risks associated with birth control pills. These include:

• History of blood clots or certain heart conditions
• Uncontrolled high blood pressure
• Certain types of migraines
• Liver disease
• Smoking, especially if over 35

Your healthcare provider will review your medical history to determine if birth control pills are a safe option for you.

Birth Control Pills and Weight Gain

Do birth control pills cause weight gain? This is a common concern, but research suggests that birth control pills do not directly cause significant weight gain. Some women may experience slight weight fluctuations due to fluid retention, but this is typically temporary.

If you’re concerned about weight changes, discuss this with your healthcare provider. They may be able to suggest alternative formulations or methods.

Transitioning Off Birth Control Pills: What to Expect

Whether you’re planning to switch to a different contraceptive method or trying to conceive, understanding what happens when you stop taking birth control pills is important.

Return to Fertility

How quickly can you get pregnant after stopping birth control pills? For most women, fertility returns quickly after stopping the pill. Some may be able to conceive immediately, while for others it may take a few months for regular ovulation to resume.

If you haven’t had a period within 3 months of stopping the pill, consult your healthcare provider.

Potential Side Effects

What side effects might you experience when stopping birth control pills? Some women may experience temporary side effects as their body adjusts to natural hormone cycles:

• Changes in menstrual cycle
• Mood swings
• Acne flare-ups
• Increased menstrual cramps

These effects are typically temporary and resolve as your body adjusts. If symptoms persist or are severe, consult your healthcare provider.

Planning for Alternative Contraception

If you’re stopping birth control pills but still want to prevent pregnancy, it’s important to plan for alternative contraception. Discuss options with your healthcare provider to find a method that suits your needs and lifestyle.

The Future of Birth Control Pills: Innovations and Research

The field of contraception is continually evolving, with ongoing research aimed at improving birth control options. What innovations are on the horizon for birth control pills?

Male Birth Control Pills

Are male birth control pills a possibility? Research into male birth control pills is ongoing, with several promising candidates in clinical trials. These pills work by temporarily reducing sperm production or function, offering a potential new option for contraception.

Extended Cycle Pills

What are extended cycle pills? These are birth control pills designed to reduce the frequency of periods. Some formulations allow women to have only four periods a year, while others eliminate periods altogether. This can be beneficial for women who experience severe menstrual symptoms or simply prefer fewer periods.

Personalized Contraception

How might contraception become more personalized in the future? Advances in genetic testing and pharmacogenomics may allow for more tailored contraceptive prescriptions. This could help minimize side effects and maximize effectiveness by matching women with the most suitable formulations based on their genetic profile.

As research continues, we can expect to see more diverse and refined options in birth control, offering women greater choice and control over their reproductive health.

Where Can I Buy Birth Control Pills & How Much Do They Cost?

In This Section

• Birth Control Pill

• How effective is the pill?

• Are there birth control pill side effects?

• How safe is the pill?

• How do I use the pill?

• What do I do if I miss a birth control pill?

• How do I get the pill?

• What are the benefits of the pill?

• What are the disadvantages of the pill?

The pill is easy to get, but you need a prescription. Here’s the scoop on where to get birth control pills, how much they cost, and how you might be able to get them for free or low cost.

How much do birth control pills cost?

Prices vary depending on whether you have health insurance, or if you qualify for Medicaid or other government programs that cover the cost of birth control pills. For most brands, 1 pill pack lasts for 1 month, and each pack can cost anywhere from $0-$50. But they’re totally free with most health insurance plans, or if you qualify for some government programs. In most states, you can even get birth control pills prescribed and mailed to you using the Planned Parenthood Direct app.

You may also need to pay for an appointment with a doctor or nurse to get a prescription for the pill. This visit can cost anywhere from $35–$250. But under the Affordable Care Act (aka Obamacare), most insurance plans must cover doctor’s visits that are related to birth control. Learn more about health insurance and birth control.

If you’re worried about cost, check with your local Planned Parenthood health center to find out if they can hook you up with birth control that fits your budget. Depending on where you live, you may also be able to get birth control starting at $20/pack using the Planned Parenthood Direct app.

How can I get birth control pills for free?

There’s a good chance you can get low-cost or free birth control pills if you have health insurance. Because of the Affordable Care Act (aka Obamacare), most insurance plans must cover all methods of birth control at no cost to you, including the pill. However, some plans only cover certain brands of pills or generic versions. Your health insurance provider can tell you which types of birth control they pay for. Your doctor may also be able to help you get the birth control you want covered by health insurance. Learn more about health insurance and affordable birth control.

If you don’t have health insurance, you’ve still got options. Depending on your income and legal status in the U.S., you could qualify for Medicaid or other government programs that can help you pay for birth control and other health care.

Planned Parenthood works to provide services you need, whether or not you have insurance. Most Planned Parenthood health centers accept Medicaid and other health insurance. And many charge less depending on your income. Contact your local Planned Parenthood health center for more information.

Where can I get birth control pills?

You need a prescription for birth control pills. You can get a prescription from a doctor or nurse at a doctor’s office, health clinic, or your local Planned Parenthood health center. In a few states, you can even get a prescription online or directly from a pharmacist.

During your visit, a nurse or doctor will talk with you about your medical history, check your blood pressure, and give you whatever exams you may need. Most people don’t need pelvic exams in order to get birth control pills. Your nurse or doctor will help you decide what’s right for you based on your medical history.

You may be able to get your birth control pills right away during your appointment. Or you’ll get a prescription from the nurse or doctor, and you’ll go pick up your pills at a drugstore or pharmacy.

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Are Birth Control Pills Effective?

In This Section

• Birth Control Pill

• How effective is the pill?

• Are there birth control pill side effects?

• How safe is the pill?

• How do I use the pill?

• What do I do if I miss a birth control pill?

• How do I get the pill?

• What are the benefits of the pill?

• What are the disadvantages of the pill?

When you take the pill every single day, it’s great at preventing pregnancy. But missing pills, taking certain medications, and other things may make it not work as well.

How effective is the birth control pill?

If you use it perfectly, the pill is 99% effective. But people aren’t perfect and it’s easy to forget or miss pills — so in reality the pill is about 93% effective. That means about 7 out of 100 pill users get pregnant each year.

The better you are about taking your pill every day and starting your pill packs on time, the better the pill will work. You can use our birth control app to remind you to take your pills when you need to. But there’s a very small chance that you could still get pregnant, even if you always take your pills correctly.

If you want a method that’s even better at preventing pregnancy, check out IUDs and the implant. They’re the best at preventing pregnancy.  But if you decide the pill is right for you, make sure you always take your pills on time so they work as well as possible.

What lowers the birth control pill’s effectiveness?

The main thing that makes the pill not work is not taking it every day. But other things, like vomiting or having diarrhea for more than 48 hours (2 days) may lower how well the pill prevents pregnancy. 

These medicines or supplements can also make the pill not work as well:

• The antibiotic Rifampin (other antibiotics don’t make the pill less effective)

• The antifungal Griseofulvin (other antifungals don’t make the pill less effective)

• Certain HIV medicines

• Certain anti-seizure medicines (these are sometimes also used to treat psychiatric disorders like bipolar disorder)

• The herb St. John’s Wort

If you take any of these while you’re on the pill, use condoms as a backup method. Switch to a different method of birth control if you’ll be on them for a long time.

Your nurse or doctor can help you decide if there’s any reason the birth control pill won’t work well for you.

How long do birth control pills take to work?

It depends on when you start taking them and what type of pills you’re using. You can start taking the birth control pill any day of the month. But depending on when you start and the kind of pill you’re using, you may need to use a backup birth control method — like condoms — for up to 7 days.

Combination Pills (COCs)

• If you start combination pills within 5 days after the first day of your period, you’ll be protected from pregnancy right away. For example, if you get your period Monday morning, you can start the pill anytime until Saturday morning and be protected from pregnancy that same day.

• If you start combination pills any other time, you need to take the pill for 7 days before you’ll be protected from pregnancy. So use another method of birth control — like a condom — if you have penis-in-vagina sex during your first week on the pill.

Progestin-Only Pills (POPs or Mini Pills)

Your nurse or doctor can help you figure out the best time to start your birth control pills, and when they’ll start working.

Starting the pill after using emergency contraception:

If you start using the birth control pill after taking any emergency contraception pill — like Plan B or ella — use a backup birth control method (like condoms) for 7 days.

If you recently took the ella emergency contraception pill, don’t start using your birth control pills until it’s been 6 days or more since you had unprotected sex.

If you took a levonorgestrel emergency contraception pill (like Plan B or other over-the-counter brands), you can start using the pill right away. 

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Understanding the types of contraception, their pros and cons with an obstetrician gynecologist

Every woman is concerned about how to prevent unwanted pregnancy and protect herself from sexually transmitted infections.

The questions of how to prevent unwanted pregnancy and protect against sexually transmitted infections are of concern to every woman. Choosing reliable contraception is not an easy task, and this issue should be discussed with your doctor. Obstetrician-gynecologist of the clinic “Euromed” Marina Pavlovna GLUSHENKOVA talks about the existing methods of contraception, their pros and cons.

Contraception is barrier, hormonal and intrauterine. Methods such as coitus interruptus and calendar methods cannot be considered reliable and effective. Fortunately, in the XXI century there are many ways and means of protection from unwanted pregnancy and unpleasant diseases.

Barrier methods

Condoms

Pluses

• reliable protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and unwanted pregnancies (when used correctly)

• affordable price

• no systemic effect on the body

• ideal for those who have an irregular sex life

• do not require preliminary examinations for selection

Cons

Spermicides

Spermicides are substances that immobilize spermatozoa, due to which they do not penetrate into the uterine cavity.

Pluses

• partial protection against sexually transmitted infections (some viruses do not work)

• suitable for those who cannot use hormonal and intrauterine contraception

Cons

• low efficiency (60–70%), this method cannot be used as a standalone method

• requires very strict enforcement of the rules of use

• Possible irritation, allergic reactions of the skin of the genital organs

Intrauterine methods

Copper intrauterine system (coil)

The coil thickens cervical mucus and forms a barrier to spermatozoa. Copper acts toxically on spermatozoa, immobilizing them, and also suppresses ovulation.

Pros

• prolonged action, allowing you to forget about contraception for several years

• no systemic effect on the body

• can be used during lactation

Cons

• it is impossible to put nulliparous, because against the background of the spiral there is a risk of the formation of intrauterine synechia, adhesions, which can lead to infertility; Also, nulliparous due to anatomical features have a narrower cervical canal, which makes it difficult to install the spiral.

• the spiral does not protect against STDs, respectively, it is only suitable for women who have one permanent healthy sexual partner;

• against the background of the use of a copper-containing spiral, the risk of inflammatory diseases of the uterus and appendages increases by 5-6 times compared with women who do not have spirals;

• the spiral can provoke longer and more painful periods;

• if a woman has a history of multiple abortions, invasive interventions, curettage, there is a risk of developing cervical insufficiency, i. e. failure of the cervix, which can lead to expulsion (falling out) of the spiral.

Protected hormonal coils

The hormones contained in the system act in the uterine cavity, make the mucous membrane thinner, and immobilize spermatozoa. All this makes fertilization and implantation of the fetal egg impossible.

Pluses

• Reliable contraceptive action for five years

• No systemic action

• has a therapeutic effect: it is indicated for patients with a history of endometrial hyperplastic processes, uterine myoma

• can be used during lactation

Cons

Hormonal contraception

This is perhaps the most effective method of all existing today.

Hormonal preparations differ in dosage (mini-dose – estrogen content no more than 30 mcg, micro-dose – no more than 20 mcg, large doses are not currently used), components, and the method of entry into the body.

There are two types of drugs: combined and the “mini-drank” group. Combined contraceptives contain estrogens (ethinyl estradiol) and gestagens, “mini-drank” – only gestagens.

Preparations from the “mini-drank” group are indicated for lactating women who should not take estrogens, but only gestagens. Also, “mini-pills” can be taken by women who do not tolerate the estrogen component.

Types of drugs: tablets (taken orally), vaginal ring (hormones penetrate the vaginal mucosa) and patch (transdermal route – hormones enter through the skin).

Reception methods. Tablets should be taken daily, at the same time. It is especially important to take at the same time for drugs from the “mini-drank” group. Tablets are generally taken for 21 days, after which they take a break for 7 days.

The vaginal ring is inserted into the vagina for 21 days, after which there is a break for a week.

The patch is changed every 7 days.

The advantage of alternative routes of administration (ring, patch) is that you do not need to remember to take the pill every day and there is no primary passage through the liver and gastrointestinal tract, which reduces the load on them. This is especially important if a woman has problems with the gastrointestinal tract or chronic cholecystitis.

Pluses

• reliable contraceptive effect (if a woman does not miss taking pills, the guarantee is almost 100%)

• active protection of the ovaries and endometrium (mucosa) of the uterus from cancer

• regulation of the menstrual cycle

• reduction of pain during menstruation

• cosmetic effect (some OK help to cope with acne, normalize skin condition)

• therapeutic effect (the doctor will help you choose hormonal contraceptives, which are indicated for patients with uterine fibroids, with endometriosis).

Cons

• the need for strict discipline, control of taking drugs at the same time (especially important for “mini-pill”)

• do not protect against STDs

• any hormonal drugs affect metabolism (metabolism), which can lead to fluctuations in body weight, although in modern drugs this effect is minimal;

• there is an effect on the vascular link, on the blood coagulation system, therefore, when taking contraceptives, constant monitoring of hemostasis is necessary. If a woman has a predisposition to varicose veins, hypertension, or there have been cases of diseases of the cardiovascular system in the family, accompanied by thrombosis, heart attacks, strokes, then the patient needs a comprehensive examination of the hemostasis system before taking hormonal contraceptives;

• there is a period of adaptation to hormones. Within 2-3 months, nausea, headaches and pains in the mammary glands can sometimes be observed, there may be slight spotting in the middle of the cycle, changes in libido, mood swings. Therefore, mandatory medical supervision of the use of drugs during the first months of admission.

• hormonal contraceptives have a number of contraindications: active smoking (more than 5 cigarettes per day), severe somatic diseases, severe decompensated diabetes mellitus, thrombosis, varicose veins, heart attacks, strokes, arterial hypertension, frequent migraines, etc.

Sterilization

Medical sterilization is a surgical technique that can be used by both men and women. This is a reliable method of 100% protection against pregnancy, a good choice for people who are definitely not planning more children.

After the operation, the ability to conceive can no longer be restored for women, in men there is a small (less than 30%) chance of restoring reproductive function by re-operation within five years after the intervention.

Female sterilization is a laparoscopic operation during which the fallopian tubes are cut, which reliably prevents the possibility of pregnancy.

Male sterilization (vasectomy) is a simple operation that takes about 20 minutes. During surgery, the vas deferens are tied up and crossed. Sterilization does not affect the erection, the amount of seminal fluid and the ability to experience an orgasm.

Pluses

Cons

• irreversibility of the operation

• the need for surgery

• there are legal restrictions on this operation

Medical sterilization as a special medical intervention in order to deprive a person of the ability to reproduce offspring or as a method of contraception can only be carried out upon a written application of a citizen over the age of thirty-five or a citizen with at least two children, and if there are medical indications and informed voluntary consent citizen – regardless of age and the presence of children.

Article 57

emergency contraception

In the case of unprotected intercourse, you can use the so-called emergency contraception. These drugs are aimed at protection, this is not an abortion. The tablet contains a large dose of progestin preparations that cause rejection of the endometrial mucosa.

Pluses

Cons

When choosing contraception, be sure to contact a gynecologist. Before prescribing this or that drug, the doctor will conduct an examination, which includes an examination on a chair, taking a smear for oncocytology. Also, if there are signs of endocrinopathy (increased hair growth, acne), it is necessary to investigate the hormonal background. Since hormones thicken the blood, affect hemostasis (blood coagulation system), it makes sense to conduct a comprehensive examination of the state of the hemostasis system. In addition, it is recommended to do an ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs (uterus and appendages) and mammary glands. All these procedures are minimally invasive, painless, they are not difficult to pass, and they will help to avoid possible complications against the background of long-term use of contraceptives.

Services

Gynecological consultation

modern methods of contraception, consulted by a gynecologist

01/27/2023

Such different contraception

Contraception is a method of preventing unwanted pregnancy. Every woman knows about this. But the modern medical industry offers so many options that, at times, the head is spinning.

Every day, our patients discuss delicate issues with the gynecologist Gurova Elena Yurievna

When is contraception needed?

Potentially, a young girl is able to become pregnant with the onset of her first menstrual cycles.

Accordingly, it is necessary to protect yourself with the onset of sexual activity.

But women in menopause need to remember that menopause can surprise in the form of an unplanned pregnancy, diagnosed at a decent time, since the absence of menstruation does not alarm a woman. That happens. Therefore, if menopause occurred before the age of 50, then contraception is needed for another 2 years, if after 50 years, then for 1 year.

Contraceptive options

1. Barrier methods of contraception

2. Chemical contraceptives

3. Biological method

4. Intrauterine contraception

5. Modern women are more interested in the method of hormonal contraception. The methods of hormonal contraception include:

• combined oral contraceptives;

• preparations containing only one medicinal component:

• hormone patches

• vaginal contraceptive ring

• subcutaneous implants

• intrauterine systems with hormone (intrauterine devices)

• injectable methods of prolonged contraception

• methods of emergency hormonal contraception (in case of accidental sexual intercourse or in a situation where the condom broke).

BARRIER CONTRACEPTIVE METHODS

Barrier methods are traditional and the most ancient. In the first half of our century, various forms of barrier methods were the only contraceptives available. The emergence of more effective methods of contraception over the past 20 years has significantly reduced the popularity of barrier methods.

There are the following types of barrier contraceptives:

• Women: non-drug barrier and medicated products.
• Male barrier products.

The principles of action of barrier contraceptives are to block the penetration of sperm into the cervical mucus.

The advantages of barrier methods of contraception are as follows: they are applied and act only locally, without causing systemic changes; they have few side effects; they largely protect against sexually transmitted diseases; they have practically no contraindications for use; they do not require the involvement of highly qualified medical personnel.

CHEMICAL CONTRACEPTIVES

The mechanism of action of spermicides is to inactivate sperm and prevent it from entering the uterus. The main requirement for spermicides is the ability to destroy spermatozoa in a few seconds. Spermicides are available as creams, jellies, foam sprays, melting suppositories, foaming suppositories, and tablets. Some women use for the purpose of contraception douching after intercourse with solutions that have a spermicidal effect, acetic, boric or lactic acid, lemon juice. Given the data that after 90 sec after intercourse, spermatozoa are determined in the fallopian tubes, douching with a spermicidal preparation cannot be considered a reliable method of contraception.

Benefits of spermicides: ease of use; providing some degree of protection against certain sexually transmitted diseases; they are a simple backup in the first cycle of taking oral contraceptives.

The disadvantages of the method are the limited period of effectiveness and the need for some manipulations on the genitals.

Efficiency. The failure rate of spermicide use alone ranges from 3 to 5 pregnancies per 100 women per year with the correct use of this method. On average, it is about 16 pregnancies per 100 women.

BIOLOGICAL METHOD

The biological (rhythmic, or calendar) method is based on periodic abstinence from sexual activity on periovulatory days. Currently, four methods of fertility control are used: calendar, or rhythmic, temperature, symptothermal method and cervical mucus method. The frequency of pregnancies with these methods of contraception is up to 12 pregnancies per 100 women.

INTRAUTERINE CONTRACEPTION

There are three generations of the Navy.

Inert Navy. The first generation of IUDs are the so-called inert IUDs. The most widespread contraceptive made of polyethylene in the form of the Latin letter S. In most countries, the use of inert IUDs is currently prohibited, since their use has a lower efficiency and a higher frequency of expulsions than when using spirals of later generations.

Copper IUDs . They belong to the second generation. The basis for creating an IUD with copper was experimental data showing that copper has a pronounced contraceptive effect in rabbits. The main advantage of copper-containing IUDs compared to inert ones was a significant increase in efficiency, better tolerability, ease of insertion and removal.

Hormonal IUDs. Relate to the third generation of the Navy. The prerequisite for the creation of a new type of IUD was the desire to combine the advantages of two types of contraception – OK and IUD, reducing the disadvantages of each of them. These coils have a direct local effect on the endometrium, fallopian tubes and cervical mucosa. The advantage of this type of spirals is a decrease in hyperpolymenorrhea, a decrease in the frequency of inflammatory diseases of the genitals. The disadvantage is the increase in “intermenstrual daub”.

Intrauterine devices are an excellent reversible method of contraception.

HORMONAL CONTRACEPTION

Combined oral contraceptives

When we talk about hormonal contraceptives, we, in most cases, mean combined oral contraceptives (COCs), which contain two different components in their composition. They are taken daily, preferably at the same time, for 21 or 28 days of the menstrual cycle (depending on the type of drug) from the first day of menstruation. Then a seven-day (or shortened, four-day) break is made.

Daily intake of COCs and the absence of gaps is the key to the desired result!

In addition to a reliable contraceptive effect, all these drugs also have a healing property in relation to such gynecological diseases as endometriosis, ovarian cyst, dysfunctional bleeding, heavy menstruation, accompanied by a decrease in hemoglobin levels. The positive effect of COCs in the treatment of acne has been proven.

Of course, like any medicine, COCs have their own contraindications. These include: thrombosis, heart attacks and strokes in the past, migraine, acute inflammation of the liver, including viral, malignant tumors of the female genital organs and mammary gland, bleeding without an established cause, individual intolerance to the drug.

But the main reason why women are afraid and refuse to take COCs is the fear of weight gain – this is a myth and outdated information.

Numerous international studies conducted indicate that all modern COCs contain medicinal substances that are neutral in relation to metabolism. And weight gain in the case of the use of COCs of the modern generation is associated only with a violation of eating behavior.

Moreover, the latest generation of contraceptives allow you to reduce weight due to a special drug component that helps reduce swelling and remove excess fluid from the body.

Contraceptive patch and vaginal ring work similarly to COCs. Only the drug enters the body in a different way: through the skin or through the mucous membrane of the vagina. This contraceptive option may be recommended for women with digestive problems or liver disease.

EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTIVES

This option of contraception is relevant to prevent the consequences of unprotected intercourse. Unwanted pregnancy can be avoided by choosing the appropriate emergency drug or mechanical contraception option within the first 72 hours after that.

Obviously, contraception improves a woman’s health by preventing abortions and unwanted childbearing, providing an opportunity to plan the future of young patients, reduce the risk of gynecological diseases that affect the ability to become pregnant, and with it the risk of obstetric complications.

Choosing the right method of contraception is a decision that depends not only on your desire, but also on medical indications. By contacting our clinic, you will receive a consultation from highly qualified gynecologists-endocrinologists who will select the best contraceptive for you.