There are a number of options available at one's disposal through which a pregnancy can be prevented. These measures are divided in two categories; before and after-sex prevention. This article provides some information about the options that are available from over-the-counter contraception methods to some surgical procedures.
Birth control has been a controversial topic for ages. There has been much debate about the morality of some contraception methods. Unlike popular belief that birth control measures are limited to women, some procedures and precautions in men can also help avoid unwanted pregnancy. The birth control measures in men are far simpler and without much side effects than women, so the onus should be on men to prevent pregnancy. Here are some of the ways:
No Sex Please: They say prevention is better than cure, the only natural way of getting pregnant is ‘intercourse’. If one does not want to get pregnant stop having sex. Although this might be difficult to follow for some, it is the most natural way to stop pregnancy.
Condom: For those who are not allergic to latex, condom is one of the most safest and inexpensive ways to avoid a pregnancy. The use of condom also has other benefits as it protects (reduces but does not eliminate the risk) one against Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) when used consistently and in the correct manner. Condoms have a 95 percent success rate, and there are polyurethane condoms for those who have a latex allergy.
Birth Control Pills: Many women use birth control pills very effectively to stop getting pregnant, and these pills have become a permanent fixture in most married couples medicine cabinet. These pills have their pros and cons, although they are riskier than using a condom. They can cause hormonal changes which might lead to complications. Always consult the gynecologist, before opting for any birth control pills for family planning.
Morning-After Pill : Modern science has made a lot of headway in inventing safe ways of birth control. The safest way is the morning-after pill which can be taken after an unsafe sexual encounter to avoid getting pregnant. If one is 18 years and older, they can get these pills over-the-counter. However, if underage then a doctor’s note would be required to get these pills. This is one of the safest ways to stop pregnancy without abortion, but it is advisable to consult the doctor before using them.
Other Ways: One is the withdraw method, in which the man withdraws just before ejaculating inside the woman. Another is the use of herbs which take care of the pregnancy, but most of these herbs are toxic and might have adverse side effects. One more way is to keep a tab on the menstrual days and ovulation days and have sex only during the safe days. Furthermore, the use of Intrauterine Device (IUD) by women is a safe way to avoid pregnancy.
Permanent Fix: People looking for a long-term solution can go in for surgical procedures which will ensure that they do not have any unwanted pregnancies. In men, the procedure is known as vasectomy and it is a comparatively inexpensive procedure. The recovery time is also very less; in some cases only two days. In women, the sterilization procedure is complicated and costs much more than men. One of the disadvantages of such a procedure is that they are irreversible.
If one is considering birth control measures, it is best to consult a physician before taking any decision.
Disclaimer: This HerHaleness article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.