What are the methods of contraception for women. Methods of contraception for women

Today, there is just a huge number of various contraceptives, which allows every woman to choose the best option for herself, taking into account her needs and characteristics of the body. Ideally, contraceptives should protect not only from unwanted pregnancy, but also from dangerous infections. Therefore, we will further consider in more detail ways to protect against pregnancy for women.

Method Navigator

1. Condoms

The most popular and affordable method. Condoms need to be bought in trusted pharmacies. They allow you to protect not only from unwanted pregnancy, but also from deadly diseases. In this case, you need to learn how to use condoms correctly, following the instructions from the manufacturer. It is recommended that every woman and man carry quality condoms with them at all times to protect themselves in any situation.

2. Caps

The caps are made of high quality latex and are inserted directly into the cervix. The material from which the cap is made allows you to protect partners from dangerous infections, such as syphilis or gonorrhea. However, you need to learn how to use them. Not every woman will be able to correctly insert a cap into the cervix, which is the main disadvantage of this method. In addition, allergic reactions are also possible.

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3. Coitus interruptus

This method is used by all those who want to save on contraceptives. However, this method is not reliable, and most importantly, does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. The effectiveness of the interrupted act will depend on the dexterity of the partner. It is not recommended to use it for all those who do not want to get pregnant.

4. Calendar method

This method is only suitable for women with regular menstruation. We start a calendar and track safe days. Regular menstruation allows you to accurately track the days of ovulation and safe days for conception. Every modern person should know popular ways to protect against pregnancy.

5. Temperature method

In this case, immediately after sleep in the morning, you need to measure the basal temperature in the anus. This method allows you to set the period of ovulation, before which the temperature drops slightly by half a degree. All other days when the temperature is stable are safe.

6. Cervical method

In this case, you need to monitor the condition of the mucus that is released from the vagina. Just before ovulation begins, the mucus becomes thicker and more viscous. However, this method is not accurate. After all, the state of mucus can be affected by hormonal changes in a woman's body. Therefore, it should not be used by all those who want to protect themselves from unwanted pregnancy.

7. Lactational amenorrhea

During breastfeeding, a woman's body produces a unique hormone that protects against unwanted pregnancy. In other words, ovulation does not occur during this period, which guarantees safe sex.

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8. Spiral

The most modern method of contraception. The spiral is made of silver or copper plates that prevent unwanted pregnancy. The spiral is inserted directly into the uterus of a woman, mainly for five years. This method is characterized by a high level of efficiency if the spiral is inserted correctly. Of course, there are exceptions to the rule, and pregnancy with a spiral can occur. Therefore, you need to choose only high-quality and proven spiral.

Every woman should know how to prevent pregnancy.

9. COCs

These are hormonal pills that protect a woman from unwanted pregnancy. However, most women are afraid to use this method due to possible side effects, such as weight gain or blood clotting. The use of cocci is quite safe and effective if the woman does not have serious contraindications.

10. Vaginal ring

A special ring containing estrogens is inserted directly into the cervix. Hormones are secreted and prevent ovulation from occurring. In this case, the ring must be inserted correctly in order to protect yourself from unwanted pregnancy. In addition, it can also fall out, which is a disadvantage of this method.

11. Hormone patch

The patch must be glued to the skin and estrogen hormones will enter the body through the blood, and prevent unwanted pregnancy.

12. Mini-pill

These are special pills that contain the hormone progestogen. Compared with the previous type, this method is characterized by a low level of efficiency, although there are practically no side effects.

13. Subdermal implants

A special implant is sewn under the skin, which prevents unwanted pregnancy. The hormone progestogen enters the body, which prevents the development of the egg. Such an implant is installed for several years.

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14. Hormonal spiral

In addition to the usual, there is also a hormonal intrauterine device. It secretes a hormone that prevents the embryo from attaching to the walls of the uterus, and also paralyzes the activity of spermatozoa.

15. Chemical contraception

There are also drugs that simply destroy spermatozoa. It can be tablets, gels, creams or suppositories. Such funds are used mainly a few minutes before sexual intercourse. The benefits include protection against infections. However, they are characterized by a low level of effectiveness compared with other methods of contraception.

16. Emergency contraception

There are special pills that need to be taken within one or two days after intercourse. This method is unhealthy and should only be used as a last resort.

17. Folk methods

Folk remedies involve the creation of an acidic environment in the vagina, in which spermatozoa die. So lemon juice or potassium permanganate can be used. You need to know that this method has a low level of effectiveness, and also the acid irritates the delicate mucous membrane of the cervix. Therefore, there may be irritation and even wounds.

18. Hormonal pills

There are pills that do not allow the embryo to attach to the wall of the uterus. Such hormonal drugs should be taken within a few days after unprotected intercourse.

19. Emergency coil setting

Today, after an unprotected intercourse, it is possible to make an intrauterine device for five days. Silver or copper plates do not allow the development of the egg and destroy the sperm.

20. Medical sterilization

This method is only suitable for those who are sure that they do not want more children. In other words, after medical sterilization, a woman will never be able to get pregnant again. The fallopian tubes are simply tied up, which prevents the egg from meeting with the sperm.

These are all popular ways to protect yourself from unwanted pregnancy during sex.

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Contraception is the protection against unwanted pregnancy. Modern methods of contraception are very diverse. Initially, contraceptive methods are divided into male, that is, intended for men, and female. There are much more methods of female contraception, and which method is preferable is decided by the woman herself together with the doctor, taking into account contraindications and side effects.

Physiological methods of contraception

Lactational amenorrhea method
This method is based on the fact that while a woman is breastfeeding, she releases prolactin in large quantities, which suppresses the synthesis of her own hormones by the ovaries, and, accordingly, ovulation. effective enough only in the first six months after childbirth, subject to the implementation of all the rules.

calendar method
This method is based on the calculation of dangerous and safe days. Not a reliable enough method, as it is suitable for women with a regular menstrual cycle, especially since the lifespan of sperm in the female body is up to 7 days (even if sex was on a safe day, there is no certainty that the sperm will not die before ovulation).

Mechanical methods of contraception



It is a rubber cap that is inserted into the vagina before coitus and covers not only the cervix, but also the vaginal vaults.

cervical cap
This device is made of latex or silicone, just like the diaphragm, it is inserted before intercourse, but only covers the cervical canal.

long-acting contraceptives

These include injectable hormones (Depo-Provera), administered once every 3 months, hormonal implants (Norplant) are administered subcutaneously 6 capsules for up to 5 years, hormonal patches (Euro), are attached weekly for 3 weeks followed by a seven-day break and hormonal a ring that is inserted intravaginally for a period of 3 weeks, followed by removal for 7 days.

The disadvantages of the hormonal type of contraception include the presence of a large number of contraindications, pronounced side effects with the wrong choice of the hormonal method of contraception, require discipline and regular intake of hormonal pills, do not protect against sexual infections.

The positive aspects of this method of contraception are high efficiency, if necessary, it can be used for "fire" contraception (as special pills for emergency contraception, for example, and COCs), with the right selection, they are well tolerated, and also normalize the cycle.

Chemical contraception

This method includes preparations - spermicides, which act locally and are available in the form of creams, gels, sponges and aerosol foams. Spermicides cause the death of sperm even in the vagina or, if the activity of the latter is preserved, prevent their penetration into the uterine cavity.

The advantages of the chemical method of contraception for women are considered to be a certain protection against genital infections and ease of use. The negative aspects of spermicides are the need to use immediately before sexual intercourse and a limited period of effectiveness. The effectiveness of chemical methods of contraception is 75 - 80%.

female sterilization

This method involves occlusion of the fallopian tubes (ligation and/or crossing of the tubes). The advantage of this method is its absolute reliability (100%), although, as a matter of fact, it is rare, but there is a restoration of tubal patency and subsequent pregnancy. And the disadvantages include the impossibility of restoring fertility, that is, the irreversibility of the method.

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The site provides reference information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases should be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Expert advice is required!

What are contraceptives for?

To contraceptives include drugs and drugs that can prevent the onset of unwanted pregnancy. In addition, contraceptives, in particular hormonal drugs, are successfully used in the prevention and treatment of conditions such as hirsutism (excessive hair growth), menorrhagia (heavy and prolonged menstruation), dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation). And the use of barrier products (condoms, vaginal caps, spermicides) also serves as a prevention of sexually transmitted infections.

Types of contraception

All contraceptives can be divided into several groups:
  • hormonal agents;
  • contraceptive spirals;
  • contraceptives with spermicidal action;
  • barrier means;
  • natural methods.
The most effective of them are hormonal contraceptives.

The latest contraceptives

The most modern forms of release of contraceptives include the contraceptive ring, hormonal patch, hormonal injections and implants. The use of these funds is characterized by long-term contraception, and its high efficiency. Oral contraceptives of the new generation contain minimal doses of hormones, which made it possible to reduce the list of their contraindications and reduce the number of adverse reactions.

Hormonal birth control

Hormonal contraceptives are drugs that contain sex hormones - estrogen and progestogen. There are various forms of release of hormonal drugs: birth control pills, vaginal rings, birth control patches, implants and injections, as well as a hormonal intrauterine system.

It is very important to consult a doctor before using hormonal drugs, as there are many serious contraindications for their use.

The action of hormonal contraceptives is based on the suppression of ovulation and the thickening of the mucous secretion secreted by the cervix. Thick mucus prevents sperm from entering the uterine cavity, and the flow of sex hormones from the outside prevents the production of its own sex hormones, so that the egg does not mature.

Birth control pills can be divided into 2 groups:
1. Combined oral contraceptives. They contain 2 hormones: estrogen and progestin.
2. Mini-pill - contain only progestogen.

Combined oral contraceptives, depending on the composition, are divided into monophasic and triphasic. In monophasic contraceptives (Regulon, Marvelon, Jess, Janine, Logest, Novinet, Rigevidon, etc.), all tablets contain the same amount of hormones. Three-phase contraceptives (Tri-Merci, Triquilar, Tri-Regol) contain different amounts of hormones.

Three-phase preparations are used less frequently. They are worse tolerated, despite the fact that their composition mimics the change in the content of sex hormones in the body of women during the menstrual cycle. Depending on the dose of the hormone estrogen, there are high-, low- and micro-dose combined oral contraceptives in the preparation. Currently, low- and micro-dosed tablets are more often prescribed. Take oral contraceptives every day, at the same time.

Combined oral contraceptives should not be taken under the following conditions:

  • cardiovascular diseases;
  • blood clotting disorder;
  • liver disease;
  • high blood pressure;
  • severe headaches, migraines;
  • excess body weight;

  • age over 35;
  • malignant neoplasms of the genital organs and mammary glands;
  • elevated cholesterol;
  • gallbladder disease;
  • age over 40;
  • pregnancy and lactation.
mini pili(Exluton, Charozetta, Micronor, Microlut, Ovret) - preparations containing only one hormone - a progestogen. Due to this, they can be prescribed in cases where it is undesirable to take combined drugs. For example, when breastfeeding, with concomitant diseases such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, liver disease, varicose veins, smoking, and over the age of 40. Also, mini-pills are contraindicated in malignant neoplasms of the mammary gland, uterine bleeding, the cause of which is not clear, when taking anticonvulsant and anti-tuberculosis drugs, diseases and disorders of the liver, lesions of the vessels of the brain and heart, during pregnancy. They must be taken every day, at the same time.

Adverse reactions with the use of oral contraceptives may include irregular bleeding, fluid retention in the body and weight gain. Their severity and frequency depends on the dose of the hormone contained in the tablets.

Safe contraceptives used during lactation include:

  • mini pili- the composition includes only gestagens, thereby reducing the risk of a negative impact on the duration of breastfeeding, the quantity and quality of breast milk. Breastfeeding women can take them as early as 5-6 weeks after giving birth. The disadvantage is the frequent occurrence of intermenstrual bleeding - a sign of adaptation of the body to the drug. Before using oral contraceptives, a doctor's consultation is necessary.
  • Depo-Provera injectable, subcutaneous implant "Norplant" - also due to its composition they do not affect lactation, they are highly effective. They are distinguished by a long contraceptive period - 5 years for a subcutaneous implant and 12 weeks for Depo-Provera. The disadvantages of the method are that they are prescribed and administered only by a doctor. Side effects are the same as in drugs containing only gestagens. In the first 2 weeks there is a need to use additional methods of contraception.
  • Intrauterine devices- do not affect breastfeeding, are established for up to 5 years and begin to act immediately after administration. Disadvantages of this method: possible discomfort in the lower abdomen during feeding, heavy and painful menstruation in the first months of use. They cannot be used if a woman has had inflammatory diseases of the uterus and appendages before or after pregnancy. inserted and removed by a doctor.
  • barrier methods of contraception(condom, diaphragm) - quite effective during lactation, subject to the rules of use. Do not affect the health of the child, the amount and composition of breast milk.
  • Spermicides- can also be used during breastfeeding, due to local action does not affect breast milk. Quite effective when used correctly - can be used independently, without additional funds.

Contraceptives for women over 45 years of age

Perimenopause (or menopause) is the period in a woman's life after 45-49 years. It consists of premenopause - the transition to menopause, and two years after the last menstruation.

The age of 45 years and older is characterized by a gradual fading of ovarian function and a decrease in the ability to conceive. Despite this, the likelihood of an unplanned pregnancy remains quite high, especially if regular menstrual cycles are maintained. Therefore, contraception is especially relevant during this period. Pregnancy at this age is accompanied by a high risk of complications, such as miscarriage, preeclampsia, incorrect location of the placenta. Childbirth and the postpartum period are more difficult, child morbidity and mortality are higher. Also, concomitant diseases of women play an important role - cardiovascular, diseases of the digestive system, liver, urinary system, most often of a chronic nature.

It is important to use contraceptives not only before menopause (when menstruation has completely stopped). It is recommended to continue taking it for 2 years if menopause occurs after 45, and for 1 year if menopause occurs after 50.

The choice of a method of contraception at this age is quite complicated, and is carried out only in conjunction with a doctor. It is necessary to conduct a survey to identify possible contraindications for a particular method.

  • barrier means(condoms) - safe to use, but quite often cause some inconvenience. Chemical spermicides are also widely used not only due to their contraceptive effect - they are able to reduce the effects of dryness in the vagina, which is important for women in perimenopause.
  • Intrauterine devices often contraindicated at this age due to the large number of diseases of the body and cervix. If there are no contraindications for use, preference should be given to hormone-producing spirals (Mirena), since they have not only a contraceptive, but also a therapeutic effect - with menorrhagia (uterine bleeding) they reduce the amount of menstrual blood loss, help prevent inflammatory diseases of the genital organs, reduce the risk of developing iron deficiency anemia.
  • Hormonal drugs- Advantageously, gestagenic agents are used, such as mini-pills, Depo-Provera, Norplant. They are not able to influence blood coagulation, lipid metabolism, liver function. The use of combined oral contraceptives is rather limited. They are used only if the woman does not smoke (smoking is an absolute contraindication to their appointment), and there are no other risk factors for the development of thrombosis and coronary heart disease. Preference is given to low-dose drugs, such as Logest, Mercilon.
  • Sterilization is the most reliable method of contraception, but it is rarely resorted to, since this method is quite invasive, and is a surgical intervention.
  • emergency contraception at the age of 45, it is used extremely rarely, since the use of large doses of hormones causes severe adverse reactions.
Before use, you should consult with a specialist.

Contraceptives

Contraceptives are traditionally divided into mechanical, biological and chemical. Different means naturally have a different degree of effectiveness. Virtually none of the methods of preventing pregnancy (except for sexual abstinence) can not give a 100% guarantee. Quite often, in order to achieve greater safety and reliability, various contraceptives are combined. However, it is best to choose a contraceptive, after consulting with a gynecologist.

In this article, we will talk in detail about the most popular types of contraception.

CONDOMS


Condom (condom) - made of latex (polyurethane). It is put on the male penis during an erection, before starting sexual intercourse. After ejaculation, the condom is immediately removed and discarded. This contraceptive, in addition to its main purpose, also protects partners from most sexually transmitted infections (syphilis, gonorrhea, AIDS, chlamydia, herpes, hepatitis B). The percentage of effectiveness of this contraceptive is quite high - 85-95%. However, not all 100%, because condoms can break and sometimes they are used incorrectly.

SPIRAL


An intrauterine device (it is also an IUD, and in everyday life a spiral) is a convenient and highly effective device that is placed in the uterus. The spiral, despite the high percentage of efficiency (98-99%), has a number of possible complications. For this reason, the spiral is not recommended for women under the age of 23 who do not yet have children. Only a gynecologist should install and remove this tool after a medical examination. The advantages of the spiral include its long-term use - up to 5 years.

CONTRACEPTIVE PATCH


The principle of the patch is that it is glued to a certain area of ​​the body, and then hormones are absorbed into the body through the skin. The effect of this contraceptive is that there is a delay in the development of the egg and the viscosity of the mucus in the cervical region increases. For one menstrual cycle, three patches are usually used, that is, one patch is pasted for seven days. Next, you need to take a week break, and at this time menstruation occurs. The disadvantages of this method include the appearance of secretions (between cycles), headache.

VAGINA RING


This remedy is a transparent elastic ring, which is made of synthetic material and contains hormones that begin to be released only after the insertion of the ring into the vagina. With the help of a complex system of membranes, only a strictly defined amount of hormones is released daily. The ring can be easily inserted and removed by the woman herself. It is used for contraception during one menstrual cycle, which includes 21 days of use and seven days off. Side effects: spotting, nausea, headaches, etc.

LONG-LASTING INJECTIONS


The method of protection with the help of injections is to stop ovulation (the process of the release of an egg from the ovary) due to changes in the mucus in the cervical region, changes in the mucous membrane of the uterine cavity itself, as a result of which the development of pregnancy is impossible. The contraceptive effect of this method lasts 3 months. However, this method also has a number of rather serious drawbacks. There may be problems with bleeding, as well as swelling, headaches, and a decrease in the level of sexual desire. Also, with prolonged use of this method, bone tissue is destroyed.

NORPLANT


The Norplant contraceptive system is six small capsules that contain the hormone levonorgestrel (progestin). Capsules are placed under the skin, on the inside of the shoulder, after which the hormone gradually begins to be released into the blood. The contraceptive effect begins in a day and lasts for five years. It is achieved by changes in the endometrium, which lead to disruption of the process of attachment of the egg to the walls of the uterus. When using this implant, intermenstrual discharge may appear, the menstrual cycle may also be disturbed, depression, headache, fluid retention in the body, acne and pain in the mammary glands will appear.

MALE AND FEMALE STERILIZATION


It should be remembered that sterilization is a method of irreversible contraception that leads to complete infertility (however, even in this case we cannot talk about 100% reliability, because there is always a chance that even the operation will not bring the desired result). Male sterilization is a fairly simple surgical procedure that involves cutting and then ligating the vas deferens. Female sterilization takes place in a hospital and consists in cutting and ligation of the fallopian tubes. Do not forget that, as with any other surgical operation, with sterilization there is always a risk of complications - bleeding, infection, adhesions.

DIAPHRAGM


It looks like a domed cap made of latex or rubber. It is inserted into the vagina no earlier than 6 hours before the onset of sexual intercourse, while closing the cervix. Also, the diaphragm serves as a container for a special cream that inhibits the activity of spermatozoa. The principle of its action coincides with the principle of the condom - these barrier means do not allow sperm to enter the uterus mechanically.

BIOLOGICAL PROTECTION


Biological contraceptives are a way to prevent pregnancy using hormonal contraceptives. With this method of contraception, a woman must take daily pills, which include female sex hormones. After their application, the general hormonal background changes, which in turn inhibits ovulation, changes the state of the intrauterine environment, preventing a possible pregnancy. The effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives is 97-99%. Oral hormonal contraceptives are combined, that is, those that contain estrogen and progestogen, and non-combined, that is, those that contain only progestogen. You need to select a hormonal contraceptive with the help of a gynecologist. Since there are diseases in which taking hormonal contraceptives is contraindicated.

MINI-PILI TABLETS


These are hormonal pills that do not contain estrogens. Their action is to increase the viscosity of the cervical mucus, which in turn makes it very difficult for sperm to pass into the uterus. Also, these drugs inhibit the maturation of the endometrium, as a result of which it becomes impossible to attach the egg to the walls of the uterus for its further development. Mini-pills are taken without interruption, for the entire time necessary to prevent pregnancy. The main disadvantage of this method is a slightly higher frequency (in comparison with other oral contraceptives) of breakthrough bleeding. Mini-pill is a way out for women who are contraindicated in the use of estrogens, including nursing mothers.

CALENDAR METHOD


It consists in calculating, using simple mathematical operations, the estimated date of the onset of ovulation and abstaining from sexual intercourse during the fertile phase (the phase of ovulation, during which a woman can become pregnant).
The beginning of the fertile phase described above is determined by subtracting 18 days from the shortest cycle, and the end by subtracting 11 days from the longest cycle.

Example:
The shortest cycle lasts 28 days and the longest 30 days.
The beginning of the fertile phase is 28-18 = 10th day of the cycle.
End - 30-11 = 19th day of the cycle.

That is, from the 10th to the 19th day of the cycle, fertilization can occur, which means that these days you need to use barrier contraceptive methods or refrain from sex altogether. The disadvantages of this method include, first of all, its unreliability, since initially it assumes a regular, constant menstrual cycle, which, unfortunately, no woman has.

TEMPERATURE METHOD


Based on the calculation of the fertile phase by measuring the basal (or rectal) temperature in women. You need to start measuring basal temperature on the first day of the cycle. After waking up in the morning, without getting out of bed, you need to place the thermometer in the rectum at a level of 1-2 cm, and hold it there for 5-6 minutes. The data obtained must be entered into a special graph of your basal temperature. It should be remembered that throughout the entire time it is necessary to use one thermometer, and the temperature measurement should be carried out at the same time every day.

During the first half of the cycle, the basal body temperature is usually below 37°C. 12-24 hours before ovulation, body temperature drops by 0.1-0.2°C, and after ovulation it rises by 0.2-0.5°C (usually up to 37°C or higher). And this temperature is kept at this level throughout the second half of the cycle until the onset of menstruation. The fertile period begins six days before the preovulatory recession and lasts another three days after it (the total duration of the fertile phase is 9 days).

The advantages of the temperature method of contraception include: ease of use; absence of any side effects; the most accurate determination of the days of probable conception when planning a pregnancy.
Disadvantages: high risk of unwanted pregnancy (because a very large number of factors affect the level of basal temperature); the need for daily measurement of basal temperature.

COMMISSIONING


This method consists in the complete removal of the male penis from the woman's vagina before the onset of ejaculation. Interruption of sexual intercourse is one of the least effective methods of contraception. According to statistics, out of a hundred couples who use this method, approximately 20-25% experience an unplanned pregnancy. First, during the onset of sexual intercourse, a certain amount of active spermatozoa is released along with natural lubrication. Secondly, not every man can control himself during an orgasm. Also, when having sex again, you should use a different method of contraception to avoid getting sperm into the vagina. The advantages of this method include accessibility and simplicity, while the disadvantages are the incomplete satisfaction of the partners with the process.

EMERGENCY (aka postcoital, fire) CONTRACEPTION combines methods of preventing unwanted pregnancy, which are used after unprotected intercourse has taken place. Most emergency contraceptives can be purchased from pharmacies without a prescription and self-administered, but we strongly recommend that you consult a doctor so that he selects the most appropriate method of emergency contraception for you, checks for contraindications to the chosen method and selects the appropriate dosage.

TYPES OF EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION:


1) douching
Douching with a variety of solutions, even immediately after unprotected intercourse, is very ineffective, because spermatozoa penetrate the cervical region within a minute after ejaculation. Also, do not forget that a small amount of active spermatozoa can stand out directly during sexual intercourse - with lubrication.

2) Hormonal contraceptives
The first way to use hormonal contraception is to simultaneously take several types of COC tablets (combined oral contraceptives). The number of tablets required for taking is based on the dosage of the hormone level in the preparations: Miniziston, Rigevidon, Femoden, Marvelon, Microgynon, Regulon - two times four tablets (the interval between taking is 12 hours), Logest, Mercilon, Novinet - two times five tablets. This method is called the Yuzpe method and it is effective for three days after unprotected intercourse. The efficiency of this method is not very high - 75-85%.

The main advantage of this method is its availability, since all drugs are sold in any pharmacy without prescriptions. Side effects after application - nausea, pain in the mammary glands, vomiting, dizziness, headache.

An alternative to COCs is preparations that contain only progestins and do not contain estrogens. The most effective drugs of this type are Escapel and Postinor. Escapelle contains 1.5 mg of the hormone and is used once. Postinor also contains 0.75 mg of levonorgestrel and it must be applied twice with an interval of 12 hours. Minor side effects that can be caused by hormonal emergency contraceptive methods usually resolve within two days.

It must be remembered that after using methods of emergency hormonal contraception, it is imperative to use additional methods of contraception until the next menstrual cycle: spermicides, condoms, etc.

3) Non-hormonal emergency contraception
Mifepristone (Ginepristone) is one of the most effective emergency protection drugs. A single dose of this drug within three days after unprotected intercourse has occurred causes a slowdown in ovulation (this process depends on the phases of the menstrual cycle), a change in the endometrium, and also prevents the attachment of a fertilized egg.

This drug has less pronounced side effects - for example, the frequency of bleeding is only 15%, compared with 31% when taking levonorgestrel. The effectiveness of this method of emergency contraception is 98.8%. The advantages of this method include the fact that it can be used for a longer period compared to other means of emergency contraception, as well as the fact that after its administration there are practically no hormonally dependent side effects.

4) Intrauterine devices
Another way to prevent an unplanned pregnancy is to use an intrauterine device (IUD). To achieve the desired effect, copper-containing IUDs are inserted within five days after unprotected intercourse.

Emergency contraception is an alternative to abortion, but it is strongly discouraged from being used as permanent contraception, but only in "emergency" situations (maximum once every six months). Since the frequent use of emergency methods of contraception can lead to a violation of the reproductive functions of a woman.

In the clinic "New Life" you can get advice from highly qualified gynecologists-endocrinologists on the most suitable method of contraception for you.

Many women are interested in the question: which method of contraception to prefer? To make a choice, many listen to the advice of their friends or simply use the “folk” methods they are familiar with. But no one will be able to choose the right contraceptive for you the way a competent specialist will do.

Pros and Cons of Different Contraceptive Methods

The female body was created by nature in order to reproduce and feed offspring. But today, few women are ready to give birth from the onset of puberty to old age with virtually no interruptions. Therefore, the issue of contraception is quite acute.

Today there are many different methods of contraception. All of them can be divided into two groups: reliable and unreliable. The first group includes only four methods: the use of contraceptive pills, the use of intrauterine contraceptives, surgical sterilization and the rejection of sexual activity. Other methods are unreliable.

Naturally, the woman herself must decide which method to choose, the doctor can only give advice and choose the best way for you to protect yourself from unwanted pregnancy.

Modern means of contraception

. Hormonal pills

These are oral contraceptives, which are of two types: combined estrogen-progestogen agents and mini-pills containing only progestogen. We will touch on the latter later. But the advantage of combined drugs is their almost 100% efficiency.

Hormonal pills are the most reliable contraceptives that exist today, with the only exception being voluntary surgical sterilization. Hormonal pills give a contraceptive guarantee if you start taking them from the first day of the cycle. They are easy to handle, and the only thing that is required of you is not to miss their intake and try to produce it at the same time. In addition, many drugs have a cosmetic effect - they can improve the condition of the skin.

It should be noted that such drugs differ greatly from each other in composition, clinical properties and dose of hormones. Therefore, the question of choosing a drug must certainly be entrusted to the doctor.

. mini pili

These pills contain only microdoses of progestogens, about 15-30% of the part contained in combination pills. The contraceptive effect of mini-pill is significantly lower than that of tablets. But because of the lesser effect on the blood coagulation system, they can be used by women who smoke over 35 years of age, as well as those who suffer from diabetes and other diseases in which combined oral contraceptives are unacceptable.

. Intrauterine device

The method of intrauterine contraception is based on the introduction into the uterus of a device that warns against pregnancy - a spiral. It is suitable only for women who have given birth. The procedure for introducing an intrauterine device is carried out by a doctor in the clinic quite quickly and almost painlessly.

Despite the reliability of such a contraceptive, recently many patients refuse to use it, since the spiral can cause an increase in the amount of menstrual flow and menstruation pain.

The specialists of our clinic will be able to choose the best type of intrauterine contraception for you and correctly install the helix, which is very important for its effective functioning and your comfort.

. Hormonal ring NovaRing

NuvaRing is a flexible ring made of hypoallergenic EVA material used to make implants. It is inserted into the vagina for 21 days and releases hormones, thereby providing high contraceptive effectiveness. The convenience of the ring is that it needs to be inserted once a month, while tablets need to be taken daily. It allows you to lead an active lifestyle, but some patients note that the ring interfered with them during sex.

. Barrier contraceptives

. Hormonal implant

A special capsule with hormones, which is inserted by surgical manipulation on the inside of the forearm for a period of 5 years. A good solution for women who are contraindicated in taking hormonal pills.

. Hormonal injections

Hormone injections are a highly effective method of contraception. After injection into the buttock, the contraceptive effect lasts 3 months.

. Coitus interruptus

A very common method that has many disadvantages. First of all, spermatozoa can be released before complete ejaculation, in addition, it can be very difficult for some men to stop, and finally, this method is harmful for men, as it is fraught with development