Comparison of Contraceptive Methods (Hormonal Contraception)
As you know there is no ideal method of contraception, the one that would suit everyone. Each method of contraception has its advantages and disadvantages. Some methods are easy to use, but not quite effective. Others are effective but expensive and uncomfortable to use. There are birth-control methods that might not suit you due to some certain conditions or your body response.
Below we offer to your attention comparison of various methods of contraception that will help you to opt for the one that would suit you best.
Hormonal Contraceptives
Birth control pills
Advantages
- high contraceptive reliability
- availability and simplicity of use
- does not deal with sexual intercourse
- good control of menstrual cycle
- decreased menstrual blood loss and pain
- prevents pelvic inflammatory diseases
- treatment for hyperandrogenism (oily skin, increased hair growth on the face, chest, stomach, back)
- decreased risk of ovarian cancer and womb cancer
Disadvantages:
- requires a great deal of discipline as the pills should be taken daily, preferably with breaks no longer than 24 hours
- possible side effects – headaches, sickness, weight gain, others
Contraceptive effectiveness: 99.99 percent
Norplant
Advantages
- long lasting contraception
- high effectiveness
- can be used by breast-feeding women
Disadvantages
- implanted by doctor
- menstrual disorders (abundant bleeding, irregular cycle or even absence of periods)
- headaches, sickness, weight gain
- inflammation in the area where the capsule is implanted
Contraceptive effectiveness: 99.5 percent
Hormonal injections
Advantages
- long lasting contraceptive effect
- protects from endometrial cancer
- decreased menstrual blood loss
- increases hemoglobin level
- does not affect blood coagulation
Disadvantages
- menstrual disorders (irregular cycle, absence of periods)
- impossibility to cancel the birth-control method immediately
- low sex drive and weight gain
Contraceptive effectiveness: 97 percent
Contraceptive patch
Advantages
- long lasting contraceptive effectiveness
- does not deal with liver and the digestive tract
- easy to use and to cancel
Disadvantages
- irritations under the patch
- cannot be used by women whose weight is more than 90 kg
- gets dirty while being worn
- intermenstrual blood discharges
- headache
Contraceptive effectiveness: 92 percent
Vaginal ring
Advantages
- high effectiveness
- long-lasting contraception
- does not affect breast-feeding
Disadvantages
- discomfort
- vaginal irritation
- might be felt by the partner during sexual intercourse
Effectiveness: 92 percent
Progesterone only pills
Advantages
- have almost no side effects
- can be used by breast feeding women
- can be used by smoking women older than 35
- less painful periods
Disadvantages
- lower contraceptive effectiveness
- menstrual cycle disorders
- the pills should be taken daily, without breaks