Contraceptive options help prevent pregnancy hence help individuals to decide when or if they want to conceive.

It is important to know the available birth control options according to ones needs and preferences.

The common contraceptive options can be hormonal or non-hormonal.

Hormonal Options

They work by regulating hormones to prevent ovulation.

Examples include:

  • Birth control pills
  • Contraceptive patch i.e Xulane
  • Contraceptives injection i.e Depo-Provera
  • Vaginal ring i.e NuvaRing
  • Emergency contraception i.e the Morning-After pill
  • Long acting hormonal methods can last between 3-10 years or until they are removed i.e Copper IUD for example ParaGard; Hormonal IUD i.e Mirena, Skyla, Kyleena; Contrraceptive implant i.e Nexplanon.

Non-Hormonal Options

Work by; preventing sperm from reaching ovum, inactivate or damage sperm, prevent ovum from reaching the site of fertilization (tubal ligation).

Examples:

  • Bariier methods such as Condoms (male and female), Diaphragm, Cervical cap, contraceptive sponge.
  • Spermicide or vaginal gel i.e Phexxi (a vaginalPH regulator gel that stops the movement of sperm hence prevent fertilization of the ovum; inserted right before intercourse)
  • Intrauterine Devices such as Copper IUD
  • Sterilization is a permanent method of birth control. They include; Tubal ligation (for women) and vasectomy (for men)
  • Natural Methods such as fertility awareness and withdrawal.