| Sexual Contraception MethodsVaginal intercourse is a magnificent and stimulating experience for both partners, if performed properly. However, an unwanted pregnancy can be an absolutely distressing experience, for both the man and the woman. It is thus a wise thing to consider the various forms of birth control available, with your partner. You must mutually choose a method that will protect you both. Never simply assume that contraception is being taken care of by your partner. Common methods of ContraceptionAbstinence: Abstinence is the decision to abstain from sexual intercourse. This does not mean to abstain from all sexual contact, just vaginal intercourse.Condoms (for men): A condom is a thin rubber sheath which fits over the erect penis of the man just prior to intercourse. The man ejaculates into the condom, thus preventing sperm from entering the vagina. Female Condoms: A female condom (thin rubber tube with polyurethane rings at both ends) has only one end open and the ring at the closed end is to make insertion easier and to ensure that the condom does not fall out during intercourse. The man ejaculates into the condom, which prevents sperms from entering the female reproductive tract. Ovulation method: The Cervical Mucous produced near ovulation (fertility sign) is necessary for sperm migration and nourishment and is only present for a week or so every cycle. Outside this fertile time span you can engage in sexual intercourse with complete spontaneity and very low risk of pregnancy. Birth Control Pill: These pills act to produce changes in the uterus making it inhospitable for implantation of an egg and difficult for sperms to move anywhere in the female reproductive system. The Morning-After Pill: This is a high-dose combination of the female hormones estrogen and progestin. This form of contraception should only be used in an emergency case for women who have had unprotected intercourse or when the chosen contraception has failed. Diaphragm and Cervical Cap: The diaphragm (soft rubber dome) and Cervical Cap (thimble-shaped latex cap) are both used in the same manner, by placing inside the vagina, over the cervix. Spermicidal jelly or cream is held in both against the cervix. This kills all sperms as they try to reach the uterus. Intrauterine Device – IUD: This is a small T-shaped device, with a string at the base of the T, inserted into the uterine cavity. A copper IUD can remain in place for up to 10 years. Progestin Implant: This implant system consists of small capsules made of plastic tubing, which are filled with a synthetic Progestin. It works by thickening cervical mucous and changing the endometrium lining of the uterus. These can provide contraception for up to five years. Vaginal Spermicides: A spermicide is a chemical that kills sperms. The Shot: Injectable contraceptives of the hormones estrogen and progestin work by suppressing ovulation, the same way as Progestin implants. Vasectomy: A vasectomy is the surgery for male sterilization. It stops the sperms from being able to move from the testes to the penis. Withdrawal: The withdrawal method involves the man to withdraw his penis before he ejaculates. If the man neglects to do this carefully and in time, this method will certainly fail. |