Birth control methods come in two forms: those applied to women and those applied to men. So, what are the birth control methods for women? How are these methods applied? Let’s explore them together.
Birth Control Methods for Women
When we examine birth control methods, we see that there are more methods applied to the female reproductive system compared to those applied to males. We can list the birth control methods applied to women as follows:
- Calendar Method
- Intrauterine Device (IUD)
- Birth Control Pill
- Subdermal Implants
- Mesigyna (monthly) & Depo-Provera (3-monthly) Contraceptive Injections
- Tubal Ligation
- Diaphragm
- Spermicide
Calendar Method
The system that ensures protection by calculating a woman’s ovulation periods is called the calendar method. To apply this method, you need to have a regular menstrual cycle. You can calculate your menstrual cycle by recording the day of your first period and the day of your next period.
A regular menstrual period typically recurs every 28 days. In such a cycle, the probability of getting pregnant is low between the 1st and 10th days when menstruation starts, as the ovulation rate is also low during this period.
Please be careful between the 11th and 18th days, as ovulation rates are high during this period.
Between the 19th and 28th days, ovulation rates decrease again, making this period suitable for sexual intercourse.
If you find all these date calculations and note-taking challenging, don’t worry. With the advancement of technology, applications installed on computers, tablets, or phones can track your menstrual cycle for you. The important thing to know here is that this method does not provide high protection.
Intrauterine Device (IUD)
One of the most preferred birth control methods among women is the intrauterine device (IUD), commonly known as the coil. These devices, known as coils, are inserted into the woman’s uterus.
Structurally, they resemble the letter ‘T’. By neutralising the sperm that enters the female uterus, they prevent fertilisation. It is preferred to insert an IUD during menstruation because the likelihood of pregnancy is high and the cervix is more open during this period.
Intrauterine devices come in three types: copper, hormonal, and beaded. You can evaluate each of these devices in detail, considering their positive and negative aspects for you.
Copper IUDs
We previously mentioned that intrauterine devices resemble the letter ‘T’. Copper devices are named after the copper wire wound around the long rod in the middle.
It is a type of product that you can use if you have low menstrual density and short menstrual periods. Because these types of devices have properties that increase bleeding intensity, duration, and menstrual cramps.
They can be used for up to 5 years. You can continue to use copper IUDs safely by having your gynaecological examination once a year.
Hormonal IUDs
These types of intrauterine devices contain the progesterone hormone. After being placed in the uterus, they release a certain amount of progesterone hormone and prevent sperm from fertilising the egg.
Hormonal intrauterine devices are a method of control that reduces menstrual bleeding intensity. Therefore, they can be preferred by those already experiencing menstrual bleeding intensity.
IUB (Intrauterine Ball)
Ballerine intrauterine devices are more advantageous compared to copper and hormonal devices. After being placed in the uterus, they prevent sperm from fertilising the egg with the copper ions they contain.
Since they do not cause any changes in menstrual regularity and intensity, they can be a more comfortable option compared to the other two choices. It is suitable for use for 5 years.
You can safely choose the intrauterine device suitable for you and continue to use it under the advice of a gynaecologist by evaluating it according to your uterine characteristics, menstrual regularity and density.
Birth Control Pills
The second most commonly used birth control method among women is birth control pills. These pills, which contain estrogen and progesterone hormones, have a function that prevents a woman from ovulating. There are types of pills used for 21 days and 28 days.
In the type used for 21 days, you should take a tablet every day at the same time for 21 days, starting on the first day of your period (preferably the first 3 days of your period). When the 21-day period is over, take a 7-day break and start a new pack after 7 days.
In the 28-day type of pills, you should take a tablet every day at the same time, starting from the first day of your period. At the end of 28 days, without interrupting the use of the medication, you should continue protecting with a new pack.
Let’s say you forgot to take the pill and realised it later on. Then, you should take your medication immediately without delay and then continue to use it as usual. If you forget to take 2 or more pills within a week, it is advisable to use an additional method of protection.
Spermicide
Chemical-based spermicides that have the effect of killing sperm are also among the contraceptive methods applied to women. They come in different forms such as suppositories, foam, and tablets. They are applied by inserting into the vagina 15-20 minutes before sexual intercourse.
It is important to note that spermicides are not effective when used alone like other birth control methods.
To ensure the effect of spermicide, no washing application should be made to the vagina for up to 6 hours after intercourse. You should renew your spermicide before each sexual intercourse. If you have an allergic reaction to certain chemical substances, it may be risky to use these substances.
Implanon (Subdermal Implants)
Implants placed under the skin by a specialist doctor prevent the egg from attaching to the uterine lining by thinning the uterine lining.
Subdermal implants also contain hormones. If taking a birth control pill at the same time every day seems difficult for you, you can try this method. However, you must also consider that it may cause irregularities in your menstrual period as a side effect.
Mesigyna (monthly) – Depo Provera (3-monthly) Contraceptive Injections
In 3-monthly contraceptive injections, there is progesterone; in monthly injections, there are both progesterone and estrogen hormones. With these hormones, sperm cells cannot reach the uterus and thus, pregnancy does not occur.
Monthly injections are applied once a month, and 3-monthly injections are applied by injecting into the muscle once every 3 months. Like some other birth control methods, it can also cause menstrual irregularities.
Tubal Ligation (Tying Tubes)
This method has the highest level of protection. By losing the functions of the fallopian tubes, the places where the sperm fertilises the egg and located on the right and left of the uterus, protection is provided.
However, an important point to be considered in this birth control method is that the chance of having another child is almost non-existent.
Diaphragm
Made of latex and placed in the cervix, the diaphragm is an elastic material that prevents sperm from reaching the uterus. It is more effective when used with spermicide.
It should be inserted 3 hours before sexual intercourse and should not be left for more than 6 hours. Unlike condoms, they are not disposable. They can be used multiple times after washing. It is a method that breastfeeding mothers can use comfortably.
If you want to lead a safe sexual life, it is beneficial to discuss in detail the birth control methods for women. As a woman, if you want to maintain a peaceful relationship with your partner without constantly worrying about pregnancy, you should take your own precautions first.
You can ensure safe and high protection by determining the most suitable birth control method for you together with your gynaecologist.
