Selection of contraceptive methods

In this article, we will discuss modern contraceptives for women, their characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages. Choosing a method of contraception is a rather complex process. Each woman’s body is individual, so contraceptives should be selected individually as well.

When choosing a particular method of contraception, many factors should be considered: age, hormonal background, the presence or absence of gynecological diseases, etc. Female contraception is designed for absolutely all categories of women.

Oral contraceptives (COCs), as a means ensuring minimal risk of unwanted pregnancy, rightfully hold leading positions among contraceptive methods. COCs consist of synthetic analogs of two hormones produced by the female ovaries. They contain so-called estrogen and progestin components which, affecting the reproductive system, block the possibility of conception.

Combined contraceptives alter the endometrium of the uterus in such a way that even if fertilization occurs, implantation of the egg with the embryo becomes impossible due to the thinning of the lining. Additionally, taking combined oral contraceptives helps prevent the development of many gynecological diseases provoked by hormonal imbalances, such as endometriosis and uterine fibroids.

• Sexually active young women who have given birth;

• Women wishing to prevent pregnancy immediately after abortion;

• Women with recurrent functional ovarian cysts or a family history of ovarian cancer;

• Women with painful menstruation and irregular menstrual cycles;

• Girls with acne;

• Women in the postpartum period who are not breastfeeding;

• Women with anemia;

• Women who have had an ectopic pregnancy.

• Suppress the maturation and release of the egg – ovulation;

• Promote thickening of cervical mucus, making it impermeable to sperm, and alter the uterine lining, making implantation of a fertilized egg impossible;

• Reduce sperm motility in the fallopian tubes.

• High effectiveness, immediate effect if pills are started before the 7th day of the cycle;

• Reduce the risk of developing inflammatory pelvic diseases;

• Reduce the likelihood of ectopic pregnancy, menstrual disorders, functional ovarian cysts, polycystic ovary syndrome;

• Lower the risk of iron deficiency anemia, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis;

• Prevent the development of uterine fibroids and benign breast conditions;

• Do not affect sexual intercourse, convenient and easy to use;

• Use can be easily discontinued.

In addition to effective protection against unwanted pregnancy, this method has a positive impact on women's health. By taking combined pills, a woman may experience reduced menstrual pain, and her periods may become lighter and shorter. The menstrual cycle becomes regular when using pills, so this method is recommended for women with irregular cycles.

Disadvantages of hormonal contraceptives:

They do not protect against sexually transmitted infections and HIV. The effectiveness of such contraception may decrease when taken with other medications (analgesics, tranquilizers, antibiotics).

The condom is a thin latex product that prevents sperm from entering the vagina. Condoms are an optimal method of contraception because they are completely harmless to health (except in 3% of people with latex allergies), reliably protect against pregnancy when used correctly, and most importantly – protect against sexually transmitted infections. The effectiveness of contraception using a condom is about 90%. This is a safe, relatively inexpensive method that requires no special effort, is easy to use, and does not require a doctor’s consultation.

Advantages of Using Condoms:

• Reliable protection against pregnancy;

• Protection against sexually transmitted infections;

• The only method without contraindications and side effects.

Condom use has no contraindications, can be used long-term without doctor consultation, has no side effects, protects against STIs, and provides additional lubrication. The commonly noted decrease in sensitivity when using condoms is more of a psychological belief or dissatisfaction. In reality, modern latex condoms are very thin, and their maximum impact on sensitivity is a slight prolongation of intercourse, which is often even a benefit.

ATTENTION! To avoid condom breakage during intercourse, use high-quality condoms from reputable brands, always check the expiration date and packaging integrity, put it on before intercourse (not during), pinch the tip before rolling it on to leave room, and remove it carefully.

An intrauterine device is a T-shaped plastic (copper, silver, or gold-plated) structure equipped with small threads often called "antennae."

IUDs are among the most reliable contraceptive methods. The device is inserted into the uterus on the 2nd–3rd day of menstruation for 3–5 years, after which it should be removed and a new one inserted during the next period.

There are two types of IUDs: hormonal and non-hormonal. Though their shapes are nearly identical, they differ in how they affect the body.

Hormonal IUD – releases progesterone into the woman’s body. This hormone prevents egg maturation. The hormone is released daily by the IUD, blocking ovulation. The amount of progesterone is extremely small (several times less than in hormonal pills) because it is delivered directly into the uterus, bypassing the digestive tract, liver, and bloodstream.

Non-hormonal IUD – "irritates" the uterine lining, causing mild inflammation. In response, the body sends immune cells (phagocytes) to the inflammation site to destroy microbes, viruses, sperm, and fertilized eggs (if conception occurred). Non-hormonal contraceptives do not contain any medicinal substances.

With an IUD in place, hormonal balance can be restored, easing a woman’s transition into menopause.

Contraindications

Intrauterine contraception is incompatible with:

• Inflammatory, infectious, and viral diseases of the genital organs (colpitis, vaginitis, herpes, or any venereal infection);

• Cervical erosion;

• Fibroids (benign tumors);

• Pregnancy.

ATTENTION! The withdrawal method is not a method of contraception. Sperm are present in the lubricating fluid released during intercourse. Therefore, conception is possible even without ejaculation. Moreover, withdrawal is harmful to male health.

To select the most reliable method of contraception and rule out contraindications, it is recommended to undergo a gynecological examination and assess the condition of the reproductive organs and hormonal levels.

Note: Preparing for a gynecological exam requires abstaining from sexual activity for 2–3 days, avoiding douching and vaginal suppositories.

Depending on the woman’s age and medical history, the doctor may prescribe:

• Vaginal discharge analysis for microflora;

• Cytological smear from the cervix (PAP test);

• Extended colposcopy – cervical exam using magnification and acetic acid or iodine to assess the mucosa;

• Pelvic ultrasound;

• Blood tests for hormones.

At the gynecology department of Oxford Medical Clinic, experienced gynecologists help each woman select comfortable and effective contraception after examination and diagnostics.

Advantages of choosing our clinic include:

• Consultations with highly qualified gynecologists;

• Ability to perform tests, ultrasound, and other diagnostics in one place;

• Convenient locations in various city districts;

• Affordable prices and a loyalty program.

A gynecologist can select effective contraception for a woman during the consultation. However, in most cases, this requires prior tests and an ultrasound.
You can view the prices for consultations and diagnostics at Oxford Medical here.

To book a gynecologist consultation, call our contact center or submit a request via the website.