Birth control methods and effectiveness -- Part II

June 23, 10:11 AMLA Positive Sexuality ExaminerEmily Prior

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Part one in this series discussed barrier methods of birth control, including male and female condoms and spermicide. In part two, I will discuss hormonal methods including the pill, vaginal ring, skin patch, Depo-Provera, and progesterone IUDs.

Hormonal Methods:

Hormonal birth control methods include combination estrogen-progestin pills like Seasonale, progestin-only pills, vaginal ring, skin patch, Depo-Provera injection, and progesterone IUDs (Inter-Uterine Devices). Combination pills have an effectiveness rating of about 92%, which is about the same for the other pills, the vaginal ring, and the patch. The Depo-Provera injection is effective about 99.7% of the time, and the progesterone IUD is effective about 99.9% of the time, with not other birth control method being used. Hormonal birth control methods DO NOT protect against STDs of any kind.
 

Photo from Vanderbilt University Health Psychology

The pros and cons regarding hormonal methods differ for everyone, just like all other methods. However there are a few pros and cons specific to the pills and the other hormonal methods that are important. Many women and physicians report that the pill is very effective at preventing pregnancy when used correctly; PMS, menstrual cramps, and menstrual flow are reduced; and there is no interruption of sexual activity.

Other pros of the ring, injections, and IUDs include not having to take a pill frequently, not many estrogen-related side effects, no interruption of sexual activity, and for some, no breakthrough bleeding.

Cons of these hormonal methods can include possible side effects of taking hormonal medication, nausea, increase risk of blood clots, decreased sexual interest, breakthrough bleeding or spotting. It is also important to note that some hormonal methods are not effective in women who are either over or under weight.
 

As with all methods of birth control, please check with your physician before deciding on the best method for you.

Part III in this series will discuss surgical and other methods of birth control.

Some information provided in this series comes from the textbook Our Sexuality, by Robert Crooks and Karla Baur.