family planning
Birth Control Pills
Oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) are a type of hormonal contraceptive. They contain two hormones, estrogen and progestin, that prevent ovulation by blocking the release of eggs from your ovaries. They also cause changes in your cervical mucus and endometrium (the lining of the uterus), making it harder for sperm to reach an egg.
OCPs are small tablets taken daily to prevent pregnancy. The pill is highly effective when used correctly but does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
The most common side effects include irregular bleeding, breast tenderness, nausea or vomiting, headaches, weight gain or loss, acne breakouts and depression. Other rare but serious side effects include blood clots in the lungs or legs (deep vein thrombosis), heart attack or stroke caused by blood clots forming on a partially blocked artery near a person's heart due to damage to an artery wall caused by OCPs' increased level of estrogen -- they may also increase your risk for gallbladder disease or liver tumors
Condoms
Condoms are a barrier method of birth control.
They come in various sizes, shapes, and materials. Some condoms have spermicidal lubricant on them; some don't. All condoms are effective when used correctly, but it's important to understand that "correctly" means using the right type of condom for your body type and practice (like anal or vaginal intercourse).
You can buy condoms at most drugstores or supermarkets without having to ask for them or show ID. Most drugstores and supermarkets also sell other forms of birth control such as diaphragms, contraceptive pills, and IUDs—but not all stores do so! If you want to be sure your local pharmacy carries the brands you prefer (even if they are more expensive), ask before you buy!
IUDs
An IUD is a small, T-shaped device that is inserted into your uterus. The IUD prevents pregnancy by releasing copper into the uterus to prevent sperm from reaching and fertilizing an egg. It also prevents eggs from implanting in the lining of your uterus.
IUDs can be used as a long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) method, meaning they are 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy for up to 12 years depending on which type of IUD you get.
Mirena: this hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) releases levonorgestrel, a form of progesterone, into the uterus. It's typically recommended as an option for women who want birth control that lasts five years or longer with few side effects other than irregular menstrual bleeding during their first few months on it.* ParagardTM: this non-hormonal copper IUD has no hormones and can be left in place for up to 10 years.* Skyla®: this is a small T-shaped device with barbs on one end that helps it stay put once inserted into place inside your uterus.* Liletta™: this LARC option lasts three to five years before needing replacement; doctors insert it using forceps instead of inserting through the cervix like traditional IUDs do
Patches
Patches are a great choice for people who want a low-maintenance birth control method. They work by releasing hormones into your bloodstream, which prevents ovulation and thickens the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from entering the uterus.
Patches are placed on the upper arm, lower abdomen or buttocks, where they can stay in place for three weeks at a time. To use them effectively:
You will need to apply one patch each week during the first three months of using it and once per week thereafter (four times per month).
Put on your patch within 48 hours of removing it from its packaging so that it adheres properly. If you don’t wear your patch within this time frame, throw it out and start over next month with a new one instead of repositioning your old one—this could lead to side effects like irritation, rashes or infection
Vaginal Rings
A vaginal ring is a flexible, soft plastic ring that is inserted into the vagina. It works by releasing the hormones estrogen and progestin into the body. This prevents pregnancy by stopping ovulation, thickening the cervical mucus, and thinning the lining of the uterus.
Implantable Rods and Pellets
For women who are not ready to become pregnant, an implantable rod and pellet might be a good option. The rod is a small, thin, plastic device that's implanted in the upper arm by your doctor. It contains progestin, a hormone that prevents pregnancy.
The rod remains effective for up to 3 years and can be removed at any time by your doctor or any other health professional trained in inserting or removing it. Removing the implant doesn't affect future fertility (the ability to become pregnant).
Spermicides
Spermicides are chemical agents that kill sperm, preventing them from fertilizing an egg.
There are several forms of spermicides, including foam, cream, film, and suppositories. Each one works in a slightly different way; for example, foam is inserted into the vagina before intercourse and takes effect immediately; it can also be used with condoms to increase effectiveness. Creams and suppositories take longer to take effect than foams do—they must be inserted into the vagina up to six hours ahead of time—and they will not work when used with a condom.
Spermicides tend to be more effective than other forms of birth control because they kill all the sperm in their path rather than just some or most of them as do other methods such as withdrawal or wearing a condom incorrectly (which can result in pregnancy even if there is no ejaculation). They're also less expensive than many other forms of contraception at around $10 per month on average.* A disadvantage would be that each woman has her own preferences regarding how she wants her body treated during sex.* Another disadvantage is that spermicides don't prevent transmission of STIs like condoms do.* However these side effects pale in comparison compared with pregnancies caused by unprotected sex!
Emergency Contraception
Once you have been sexually active, it's important to practice safe sex. Emergency contraception (EC) can be used after unprotected sex or if a condom breaks to prevent pregnancy. EC does not protect against STDs and is not meant for routine use. It's best for preventing pregnancy if you take it as soon as possible after having unprotected sex (within 120 hours).
Takeaway: Planning a family is an important step in one's life, so it is necessary to be well informed.
Family planning is a highly personal decision, and you should consider your individual circumstances. However, there are some basic steps that can help you plan for a family:
Learn about the methods available to you. You'll want to be familiar with all the options before making your choice.
Determine when you want to start having children. As soon as possible? In a few years? Never? This will help determine what type of method might be best for you and when it's time for action!
Consider how many children would be ideal for your family right now—and what kind of environment each child would need in order to thrive. If two kids would feel like too much work right now (and they probably will), maybe wait until later down the road when things aren't so crazy busy at work or around home...like retirement age! Just kidding (sorta).
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