Contraception is the use of various methods to prevent pregnancy. Pregnancy happens when a man's sperm meets a woman's egg and fertilisation (also known as conception) occurs. Contraceptives stop this from happening, either by preventing the sperm from meeting with the egg, or by making conditions in the body unsuitable for fertilisation to occur. Birth control is a more general term that describes a wide range of practices to prevent pregnancy, such as contraception, sterilization, or the total avoidance of sex.
What different types of contraception are there?
There are three main types of contraceptives available: barrier methods, hormonal methods and spermicides.
Barrier methods physically stop sperm from entering a woman's uterus and fertilising her egg. Barrier methods include condoms (which are available for both men and women), the diaphragm, the cap and the intrauterine device (IUD or 'coil').
Hormonal methods change the level of hormones in a woman's body, making conception very difficult. Hormonal methods come in the form of pills, patches, implants, rings, injections or the intrauterine system (IUS).
Spermicides are designed to kill sperm in the vagina. Spermicides come in the form of foams, gels or pessaries which can be either inserted straight into the vagina, used on a condom, or contained in a special sponge that covers the cervix.
What is the best method of contraception to use?
If you are considering having sex with someone, it is important that you think about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) as well as pregnancy. If you don't know your partner's sexual history (or you are unsure about your own), condoms are the best method to use as they protect against both pregnancy and STDs.
If you are going to be having sex on a regular basis with your partner, it might also be advisable to think about using another form of birth control, just to be extra sure that you are protected. This could be a hormonal method, or you could try a spermicide, (although it is important to note that spermicides used on their own or with a sponge are not a very effective method of contraception). The IUD or IUS is another good option, although it is not always suitable for everyone (especially younger women) and will need to be fitted by a trained practitioner.
Visiting your doctor or health adviser before you have sex is always a good idea, as it will enable you to choose the type of contraception that is best suited to you. It is important to find a reliable and safe method that both you AND your partner feel comfortable with.
Where can you get the birth control pill?
As a general rule, you can't just walk into a chemist or pharmacy and buy a packet of pills over the counter. In the UK, the United States and most other countries, you need a prescription to obtain the birth control pill. This is because there are several different versions of the contraceptive pill and it is important for a woman to get the version that suits her best. You don't have to go and see your own doctor to get the prescription; you could see the healthcare advisor at your local young person's or family planning clinic. Once you have your prescription you can get your pills from your pharmacist or clinic.
How long do you need to take the pill before it becomes effective?
The length of time it takes for the birth control pill to become completely effective as a sole contraceptive varies depending on the type of pill you use and when you start the packet of pills. You will usually need to use an alternative form of contraception (such as a condom) for at least seven days after starting, but your healthcare provider should be able to tell you exactly when the particular version of the pill you have been prescribed becomes fully effective against pregnancy. It will normally also say on the advice leaflet that comes with your pills.
It is also worth remembering that taking other medications such as antibiotics can reduce the effectiveness of the contraceptive pill, and your doctor may recommend that you use an additional form of protection during this time. Similarly, stomach upsets such as sickness and diarrhoea can affect the absorption of the pill, so again, using an additional method such as a condom can help make sure pregnancy doesn't occur.
Using condoms as well as the birth control pill can protect both you and your partner from STDs as well as providing extra protection against pregnancy.
Does the pill have any side effects?
Some women experience side effects as a result of using the birth control pill. However, these side effects can vary from woman to woman. The most common ones are mood swings, weight gain, breast tenderness, nausea and headaches. Serious side effects are rare.
When you visit your health care provider to obtain a prescription for the contraceptive pill they should ask you a few questions about your medical history. This helps them to make sure they prescribe the type of pill that is best suited to you and hopefully reduce the possibility of any adverse side effects.
If you do experience any problems, it is worth going back to see your healthcare provider as they may be able to change your pill for a different one.
Is there a male contraceptive pill?
At the moment there is no birth control pill for men to take. Some companies are trying to develop a pill for men but it is still in the research and testing phase.
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