CONTRACEPTIVES

Types-

Four types-

1. Barrier contraceptive

2. Hormonal contraceptive

3. Intrauterine contraceptive

4. Permanent contraceptive

1- Barrier contraceptives

Condoms

These are made from nitrile rubber. They protect the user from unwanted pregnancy and

from STDs. They are less effective than the male version.

The diaphragm

A flexible silicone dome that is positioned against the cervix. It does not cover the mucous

membrane of the vagina and therefore it is not recommended for avoiding STDs.

The vaginal sponge

This is a device made from polyurethane foam containing spermicide. It should only be

removed after 6 hours have elapsed since having sex. It does not prevent STDs.

2- Hormonal contraceptives

The pill

The morning-after pill (MAP)

Due to its high dose of hormones, this should only be administered on an occasional basis and

within 72 hours of having sex.

The contraceptive patch

This is a simple adhesive patch that is applied to the skin and needs to be changed once a week.

The vaginal ring

This is a ring made of an ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer that releases oestrogen and

progesterone. It can be inserted by the woman herself. It lasts for three weeks.

The contraceptive injection

This has similar benefits and side effects to the pill. The injection is given in a gynaecology

It is a small plastic device that is inserted into the uterus. It is a safe and effective long-term

method. The placement is performed by the gynecologist during an office visit. The approximate

duration for the hormonal IUD (Mirena) is 5 years and for the T-shaped copper device 10 years.

4- Permanent contraception

Vasectomy

A simple surgical procedure in which the vas deferens, which transport sperm, are severed.

Tubal ligation

This is carried out by means of a surgical procedure or by endoscopy.

Finally, we recommend that if you have any questions or concerns, you should see

a gynecologist in order to choose the most suitable contraceptive method for each individual