Birth Control Period

A woman’s birth control period largely depends on the type of birth control method or contraceptive that she uses. There are birth control methods that can last up to a few years, while some for just a few minutes.

There are many birth control methods to choose from especially nowadays that science and technology have evolved and became fast-paced. Advancements in medicine are made possible using these resources.

Popular methods of birth control are natural birth control such as rhythm or calendar method, condom, the pill, sterilization, injectables, hormone-based gadgets, spermicide and abstinence.

Whichever a woman chooses, timing or birth control period is of the essence when it comes to effectiveness and proper administration of birth control methods. However, not all methods guarantee 100% effectiveness when it comes to preventing pregnancy.

Rhythm or calendar method – This method is not effective since it mainly relies on the body temperature and menstrual cycle of the woman. There is no telling when and how long this method can prevent pregnancy. Without the use of any barrier or other method such as a condom for example, the chances of getting pregnant is high.
Condom – Both male and female versions of the condom can guarantee safe sex as well as preventing pregnancy. Using a condom each time you’ll have intercourse ensures these two important aspects of your active sex life. The birth control period it entails is immediate and on-going during its use. Not using a condom the next time you’ll have intercourse increases your chances of being pregnant.
The Pill – The pill is a daily dose of female hormones that help prevent pregnancy. Continuous usage of the pill ensures a longer duration of “no pregnancy” intercourse so long as the timing and dosage are properly adhered. Although, in some women, the pill may not be as effective, probably because of missed dosages and improper timing. Irregularly taking the pill may cause unplanned pregnancy.
Sterilization – This method is a permanent solution to unwanted pregnancy especially for couples who have reached their ideal number of children. Either the man or woman can have sterilization. Nowadays, there are reversible sterilization processes, but they may not have positive results such as failed pregnancy.
Injectables – One popular name for injectables is Depo-povera which is administered by a doctor every 3 months to ensure its effectiveness. It offers 98%-99% effectiveness when administered properly and timely.
Hormone-based birth control gadgets – Examples are IUD and birth control ring which releases tiny doses of hormones when already in place in the woman’s uterus.

Mirena IUDs can be used up to 5 years and the copper type IUD is effective up to 10 years. IUDs offer 98%-99% effectiveness and require a doctor to administer them properly.

Spermicide – These are chemicals that can be used in the woman’s vagina to kill sperm upon intercourse. These products may come in jellies, foams, vaginal suppositories and foaming tablets. They are not as effective as hormone-based birth control methods and may require other methods to enhance and to increase their effectivity.
Abstinence – Probably one of the most effective methods of birth control is abstinence. However, it is only effective during the period without sex. Once a woman or a couple returned to their normal routine, the chances of pregnancy will also be increased if intercourse is done without any birth control method.

One good tip is to choose a birth control method that can guarantee safe sex, no pregnancy and a long period of usage without maintenance. However, you should always consult your doctor for recommendation.

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