Birth control is now not only a matter of prevention of pregnancy but also protecting from AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases. More than one method may be needed to protect you from pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.
There are a number of birth control alternatives approved by the FDA such as males and females condoms available over the counter, vaginal spermidices, birth control pills, diaphragms and intrauterine (IUDs) prescribed by the doctor and injectable hormones and hormonal implants.
According to the health of the person, frequency of sexual activity, the number of partners and whether to have or not have children, one has to choose the particular birth control method.
Barrier method
Among the different birth control alternatives the easily available and convenient method is the barrier method. This method includes the use of male and female condoms, the diaphragm, cervical cap and sponge.
The barrier method includes the use of condoms that are available without a prescription.
The condoms are intended for one time use. It may slip out of place if used with together with a male condom.
Diaphragm
Then there is a diaphragm which is a soft, dome shaped rubber disc that fits into the vagina and covers the cervix. The diaphragm may be effective up to 95% if used in conjunction with an effective spermicide. The effectiveness is reduced if it is not used properly and if it is not used consistently. Care should be taken while fitting and removing the diaphragm. A diaphragm is available by prescription.
Cervical cap
Similar to the diaphragm is an apparatus the cervical cap. It is a soft rubber cup with a round rim. Both can be obtained through the Women's Health Service or the Student Health Center. It is only available by prescription and is used with spermicide cream or jelly.
Spermicides
Spermicides work best when used with another barrier method, such as the diaphragm or condom. Because of their ability to coat the vagina and cervix, foams are considered superior to the vaginal suppositories or tablets.
The IUD
The IUD or 'intra-uterine-device' is a small device worn in a woman's uterus. It is made of plastic and some release a hormone or is combined with
copper which prevents the egg from attaching to the walls of the uterus. Some do not exert any chemical force on the uterus at all. The IUD must be changed at certain intervals and is considered to be 97% effective.
The Pill
We also have hormonal medicines used as an alternative birth control that prevent pregnancy. Known as “the pill”, this form of birth control prevents the release of the egg from the ovaries. They may contain combination of estrogen and progestin or progestin alone. Also called oral contraceptives they provide additional benefits such as making periods more regular and lighter. It also protects against pelvic inflammatory disease, is effective against an infection of the fallopian tubes or uterus that is a major cause of infertility in women, and effective against ovarian and endometrial cancers. If a woman takes the pills regularly and as prescribed there is extreme low chance of getting pregnant.
Whatever alternatives being used both the partners should always consult about the pros and cons of it.
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Birth Control Alternatives
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