Birth Control and Contraception

'Birth control' is a term that describes things that stop a woman or girl from becoming pregnant, or giving birth. Birth control can mean a wide range of things – from 'contraceptives' (used to reduce the chances of a woman becoming pregnant) to other ways of avoiding pregnancy, like not having sex.

If you don’t want to have a baby, there are two main options – either don’t have sex, or if you are going to have sex, use contraception.

Contraception is a must-have preventive measure for the woman who's in control of her life and knows what she wants and how to get it. Minor accidents can hinder our plans, and serious ones, such as unplanned pregnancies can lead to an avalanche of events that we're not prepared for.

Contraceptive Options

1. Sterilisation

This option is suitable for the woman who is dead sure she never wants to have kids. This procedure is permanent and irreversible.

2. Contraceptive Injections

This option is definitely not for those with a mortal fear of needles. You will need to pay the doctor a visit every one to three months to get your jab and this is depending on the type of contraceptive injection that you chose.

3. Implants and Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)

This option is for those with an elephant memory. Upon insertion into your body, these forms of contraception can buy you three to ten years of protection, depending on which form you choose. However, it is mandatory for you to remember to remove them after their expiry date.

4. The Pill and condoms

This option is for the disciplined woman. You will need to take the pill everyday at approximately the same time. The good thing is that it is an oral contraceptive, so its relatively fuss-free. However, forgetting to take the Pill can have detrimental effects. If you choose the condom, you will have to remember to use it every time you have sex.

5. The Patch

This option is suitable for the woman who is constantly on the move and who likes everything to be hassle free. This form of contraception works like the pill, minus the weight gain and unsightly facial breakouts.

Being a modern young woman, you need a form of contraception which is flexible, easy to use, reversible and does not interfere with your busy schedule. Ultimately, you need to choose one that you are comfortable with. Consult your doctor or gynaecologist for more detailed information.