Birth Control
What is birth control?
Birth control is any method of preventing pregnancy.
What types of birth control are available?
There are many various forms of birth control. Some of the more popular methods include:
1. Oral Contraceptives — Probably the most widely used and popular form of oral contraceptive is “the pill.” Birth control pills are made of two different hormones: estrogen and progestin. These hormones work to prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg, thickening the cervical mucus, and thinning the lining of the uterus which can make it nearly impossible for a fertilized egg to attach to the uterus.
2. Intrauterine Device (IUD) — An IUD is a small, plastic T-shaped device that is placed within the uterus to prevent pregnancy. It prevents pregnancy by preventing sperm from reaching the egg and by changing the lining of the uterus. The IUD will stay in place until it is removed by the doctor.
3. Abstinence – This is the practice of refraining from sexual intercourse completely.
4. Condoms – These are latex rings that are either rolled over the erect penis or inserted into the vagina prior to sexual intercourse.
Each of these methods has their own advantages and disadvantages, but when used properly they can be extremely effective at preventing pregnancy. Of course, when a woman decides she is ready to become pregnant she simply stops using her chosen method of birth control and begins the process of conception. Unfortunately, it is not always that easy.
What effect does birth control have on fertility?
Obviously when a woman is taking birth control she is unable to conceive, however once she has stopped using birth control, conception may not be easy.
There are two types of birth control that can cause fertility issues in women. They are:
1. Intrauterine Devices (IUD) — Women who are using IUD’s are at a greater risk of contracting pelvic inflammatory disease or other sexually transmitted diseases (STD’s) as they don’t protect against these. Furthermore, during the insertion process, it is very common for bacteria to enter the sterile uterus causing serious infections. This infection can lead to the swelling of the fallopian tubes making it nearly impossible for the egg to pass.
2. Hormonal Pills and/or Injections — If a woman takes this form of birth control for extended periods of time, it can take a long time for her cycles to return. Once they do return, they tend to return to the exact state they were prior to starting the pill. For example, if a woman had irregular periods before starting the pill, the chances are good that these irregular cycles will return. Another complication is that the hormones in the pill have an adverse effect on the cervical fluids. The cervix produces a slippery fluid that aids the sperm in swimming around the cervix during ovulation. Sometimes the body can rebuild these cells but most of the time artificial methods must be explored.
How long after stopping birth control can conception occur?
Every woman’s body is different and will react differently. It is recommended that a woman stop taking her birth control about a year before she is ready to start trying to conceive so that her body can readjust to the lack of hormones. Alternative contraceptives, such as condoms, can be used during this period of time. It is also a good idea to wait for a solid two or three months of normal menstrual cycles before trying to conceive.
Other than infertility what other side effects are associated with birth control?
Some of the more common side effects are dizziness, weight gain, acne, nausea, vomiting, and headaches.