Birth control cons and pros

There have never been so many options for birth control as there are today. This wide range of birth control methods allows couples to determine the method that is best for them. However it should be stressed that each type of birth control has both cons and pros. Before making a final selection couples (and especially women) should carefully examine the options to determine which birth control method fits her lifestyle and health needs. In addition women seeking guidance on choosing a birth control method should ask the advice of their health care professional. Here are some of the most common types of birth control and the cons and pros of each:

Birth Control Pills

This is probably the most common form of birth control with a reported minimum effectiveness of about 95%.

Pros:

• Birth control pills are very effective against pregnancy if they are used correctly.
• They can make menstrual periods more regular and lighter also decreasing cramps and acne.
• Some studies have shown that using birth control pills can make you less likely to get ovarian and uterine cancer, pelvic inflammatory disease, ovarian cysts, and anemia.
• Using the pill is easy and does not require interrupting sexual relations.

Cons:

• Birth control pills do not protect against STD's.
• The cost can be a problem with co-pays generally running $15-$50 per month.
• You will need to remember to take them every day at the same time
• Birth control pills cannot be used by women with certain medical problems or by women taking certain medications.
• They can occasionally cause side effects such as nausea, increased appetite, headaches, and, very rarely, blood clots.
• You will need a prescription to get them.
• You should use condoms in conjunction to lower the risk of STDs.

Male condom

Another popular method of birth control with a reported minimum effectiveness rate of approximately 86%.

Pros:

• This method is highly effective against pregnancy.
• This form of contraception provides the most protection against sexually transmitted diseases (latex condoms are best).
• Condoms do not cost much (50 cents each) and can be bought at almost any drug store (you also do not need a prescription).
• This method allows men to have an active part in preventing pregnancy.

Cons:

• You do have to use a new one every time you have sexual intercourse (can only be used once)
• Using a condom may disrupt/interrupt sexual relations.
• Some women may be allergic to latex.
• Condoms can break.

Hormonal Implants

This method is newer then the others listed above but have become highly popular as well with a reported minimum effectiveness rate of approximately 99%.

Pros:

• This is a long-term method of birth control (protects against pregnancy from 24 hours to 3 years (or even 5 years) after insertion in addition you can remove it whenever you want to or can wait until time for a change of implant.
• It is very effective against pregnancy.
• Hormonal implants may cause light or no menstrual periods.

Cons:

• This methods offers no protection against sexually transmitted diseases.

• This requires minor surgery and insertion of the tiny rod(s) underneath the skin and also requires minor surgery to remove capsules.
• Hormonal implants can cause side effects such as irregular menstrual periods, depression, nervousness, hair loss, and weight gain.
• There can be an infection at area where capsules are implanted.
• This method cannot be used by women with certain medical conditions and by women who use certain medications.

Vaginal Hormonal Ring

This is another newer birth control method with a reported minimum effectiveness rate of 98%.

Pros:

• This method is very effective against pregnancy if it is used correctly.
• This can make menstrual periods more regular and lighter and decreases menstrual cramps and acne.
• This method can make you less likely to get ovarian and uterine cancer, pelvic inflammatory disease, ovarian cysts, and anemia.
• Using this method does not require interrupting sexual relations.

Cons:

• Using this birth control method does not protect against STDs and therefore requires the use of condoms to lower the overall risk.
• This method cannot be used by women with certain medical problems or by women taking certain medications.
• This method can occasionally cause side effects such as nausea, increased appetite, and headaches.
• This method presents a higher risk of blood clots.
• You will need a prescription to get this type of birth control.