Comprehensive Guide to Contraception: What You Need to Know About Birth Control – Dr. Sowmya Sampurna
What is Contraception?
Contraception, also known as birth control, is the use of medicine, devices, or surgery to prevent pregnancy. There are many types of contraceptives. Some contraceptives protect from sexually transmissible infections (STIs).
FAQ’s about Contraception.
Q1. Do I need a prescription for contraception?
- Contraceptives like birth control pills or condoms are available at a pharmacy and it does not need a prescription. Go to your nearest doctor for advice on taking the right birth control method.
Q2. What are the health risks and side effects of using contraception?
- Different forms of contraception have different health risks and side effects and some of them can be serious. Some birth control methods can increase the risk of heart disease, blood pressure, and blood clots. Ask your healthcare provider to help choose the right contraceptive method according to your health conditions.
Q3. Can contraception affect future fertility?
- Most of the contraceptive methods don’t affect future fertility but some can cause a delay in fertility after you stop using them.
Q4. Can men use contraceptives?
- The only two options that men generally have are condoms and vasectomy.
Q5. What is emergency contraception and when should it be used?
- Emergency contraception needs to be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex or contraceptive failure (like a broken condom). These are most effective when it’s taken as soon as possible after the incident.
Q6. Can I use contraception if I have a certain health condition?
- Consult your doctor before taking any contraceptives and tell them about your medical history to get better advice on which birth control method is best for you.
Q7. How do I choose the best contraceptive method?
- Consult your doctor to give a personalized plan that is suitable for you.
Q8. Do contraceptives protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?
- Only barriers like condoms help in protecting against STIs. Whereas hormonal methods and IUDs do not protect against STIs.
Q9. What should I consider when choosing a contraception method?
- You need to consider your health conditions and future fertility plans and plan the contraceptives accordingly.
Q10. Can contraception fail?
- Contraceptives are effective most of the time when used correctly. Sometimes, other factors like incorrect use or medical conditions can cause the contraceptives to fail.
Contraception, or birth control is used to prevent pregnancy. There are many types of contraceptives to use according to your health conditions. Consult your doctor if you have any queries about contraception. Some contraceptives protect from STIs and some don’t. It is important to take birth control methods every day for effective results.