In order to have an in-depth discussion about the modern ways of contraception, it is important that we fully understand what contraception is and what it does. While many of us may have used contraception before, its clinical implications and multi-fold consequences may still be lost on us.
What is contraception?
It is a method to stop a woman from getting pregnant. It does that by keeping the sperm and egg apart, stopping egg production, and by stopping the combined sperm and fertilized egg from attaching to the lining of the womb. Today, medical science has made contraception much easier. With so many methods available, you need not worry about unwanted pregnancies or family planning. Some of the methods are contraceptive pills, patches, intrauterine devices, contraceptive implants, and of course the good old condom, that not only stops pregnancy but also keeps you safe from STDs. While all these are modern and safe methods; the one that is being considered as the most hassle-free and safest is contraceptive injection.
What is a contraceptive injection?
“The contraceptive injection releases the hormone progestogen into your bloodstream to prevent pregnancy,” reports National Health Service, UK. Along with that it also thickens the cervix mucus which makes it harder for the sperm to move through the cervix and thins the womb lining so the fertilized egg is less likely to plant itself to it. It is a great substitute for women who forget to pop their pills repeatedly at the same time every day. This injection can be taken at any time during your menstrual cycle when you are not pregnant, in your tummy, thighs, upper arms, or bottom. These injections are more than 99.5% effective at preventing pregnancy and lasts for 12 -14 weeks. If you have a late injection, it might only be 96% effective. You will have to remember to take them before its effect wears off, i.e., every 12-14 weeks. Once you have taken it, you do not have to worry about popping a pill every time you have sex in that particular time frame.
What are its benefits?
- It is a highly effective method
- Most users have no or very light vaginal bleeding, which is normal.
- Periods may be less painful
- It lasts for 12-14 weeks
- It can be used while breastfeeding
- No need to stop other medications; and
However, it could be almost a year before your fertility returns to normal, so it may not be the right choice if you are planning to get pregnant in the near future, reports NHS, UK. Also, it does not protect you against STDs so one still needs to wear a condom.
But as we mentioned, it is the perfect solution for the modern woman who is busy with her career and/or wants to savor her life with her partner for a bit longer. Since there are no known risk factors of using contraceptive injections, it will not hinder in your day-to-day life or cause any other health issue.
