Contraceptives

Contraceptives are traditionally divided into mechanical, biological and chemical. Miscellaneous naturally have varying degrees efficiency. Virtually none of the methods of preventing pregnancy (except for sexual abstinence) can not give a 100% guarantee. Quite often, in order to achieve greater safety and reliability, various contraceptives are combined. However, it is best to choose contraceptive after consulting with a gynecologist.

In this article, we will talk in detail about the most popular types of contraception.

CONDOMS

Condom (condom) - made of latex (polyurethane). It is put on the male penis during an erection, before starting sexual intercourse. After ejaculation, the condom is immediately removed and discarded. This contraceptive, in addition to its main purpose, also protects partners from most sexually transmitted infections (syphilis, gonorrhea, AIDS, chlamydia, herpes, hepatitis B). The percentage of effectiveness of this contraceptive is quite high - 85-95%. However, not all 100%, because condoms can break and sometimes they are used incorrectly.

SPIRAL

An intrauterine device (it is also an IUD, and in everyday life a spiral) is a convenient and highly effective device that is placed in the uterus. The spiral, despite the high percentage of efficiency (98-99%), has a number possible complications. For this reason, the spiral is not recommended for women under the age of 23 who do not yet have children. Only a gynecologist should install and remove this tool after carrying out medical examination. The advantages of the spiral include its long-term use - up to 5 years.

CONTRACEPTIVE PATCH

The principle of the patch is that it is glued to a certain area of ​​the body, and then hormones are absorbed into the body through the skin. The effect of this contraceptive is that there is a delay in the development of the egg and the viscosity of the mucus in the cervical region increases. For one menstrual cycle, three patches are usually used, that is, one patch is pasted for seven days. Next, you need to take a week break, and at this time menstruation occurs. The disadvantages of this method include the appearance of secretions (between cycles), headache.

VAGINA RING

This protection is a transparent elastic ring, which is made of synthetic material and contains hormones that begin to be released only after the introduction of the ring into the vagina. Via complex system membranes, only a strictly defined amount of hormones is released daily. The ring can be easily inserted and removed by the woman herself. It is used for contraception during one menstrual cycle, which includes 21 days of use and seven days off. Side effects: spotting, nausea, headaches, etc.

LONG-LASTING INJECTIONS

The method of protection with the help of injections is to stop ovulation (the process of the release of an egg from the ovary) due to changes in the mucus in the cervical region, changes in the mucous membrane of the uterine cavity itself, as a result of which the development of pregnancy is impossible. The contraceptive effect of this method lasts 3 months. However, this method also has a number of rather serious drawbacks. There may be problems with bleeding, as well as swelling, headaches, and a decrease in the level of sexual desire. Also at long-term use this method destroys bone tissue.

NORPLANT

The Norplant contraceptive system is six small capsules that contain the hormone levonorgestrel (progestin). Capsules are placed under the skin, on the inside of the shoulder, after which the hormone gradually begins to be released into the blood. The contraceptive effect begins in a day and lasts for five years. It is achieved by changes in the endometrium, which lead to disruption of the process of attachment of the egg to the walls of the uterus. When using this implant, intermenstrual discharge may occur, the menstrual cycle may also be disturbed, depression will appear, headache fluid retention in the body, acne and pain in the mammary glands.

MALE AND FEMALE STERILIZATION

It should be remembered that sterilization is a method of irreversible contraception, which leads to complete infertility (however, even in this case we cannot talk about 100% reliability, because there is always a possibility that even the operation will not bring desired result). Male sterilization is a fairly simple surgical procedure that involves cutting and then ligating the vas deferens. Female sterilization takes place in a hospital and consists in cutting and ligation of the fallopian tubes. Do not forget that, as with any other surgical operation, during sterilization, there is always a risk of complications - bleeding, infection, adhesions.

DIAPHRAGM

It looks like a domed cap made of latex or rubber. It is inserted into the vagina no earlier than 6 hours before the onset of sexual intercourse, while closing the cervix. Also, the diaphragm serves as a container for a special cream that inhibits the activity of spermatozoa. The principle of its operation coincides with the principle of operation of a condom - these barrier means do not allow mechanically sperm enter the uterus.

BIOLOGICAL PROTECTION

Biological contraceptives are a way to prevent pregnancy using hormonal contraceptives. With this method of contraception, a woman must take daily pills, which include female sex hormones. After their application, the general hormonal background, which in turn inhibits ovulation, changes the state of the intrauterine environment, preventing a possible pregnancy. Efficiency hormonal drugs contraception 97-99%. Oral hormonal contraceptives are combined, that is, those that contain estrogen and progestogen, and non-combined, that is, those that contain only progestogen. You need to select a hormonal contraceptive with the help of a gynecologist. Since there are diseases in which taking hormonal contraceptives is contraindicated.

MINI-PILI TABLETS

These are hormonal pills that do not contain estrogens. Their action is to increase the viscosity of the cervical mucus, which in turn makes it very difficult for sperm to pass into the uterus. Also, these drugs inhibit the maturation of the endometrium, as a result of which it becomes impossible to attach the egg to the walls of the uterus for its further development. Mini-pills are taken without interruption, for the entire time necessary to prevent pregnancy. The main disadvantage of this method is a slightly higher frequency (in comparison with other oral contraceptives) of breakthrough bleeding. Mini-pill is a way out for women who are contraindicated in the use of estrogens, including nursing mothers.

CALENDAR METHOD

It consists in calculating, using simple mathematical operations, the estimated date of the onset of ovulation and abstaining from sexual intercourse during the fertile phase (the phase of ovulation, during which a woman can become pregnant).
The beginning of the fertile phase described above is determined by subtracting 18 days from the shortest cycle, and the end by subtracting 11 days from the longest cycle.

Example:
The shortest cycle lasts 28 days and the longest 30 days.
The beginning of the fertile phase is 28-18 = 10th day of the cycle.
End - 30-11 = 19th day of the cycle.

That is, from the 10th to the 19th day of the cycle, fertilization can occur, which means that these days you need to use barrier contraceptive methods or avoid sex altogether. The disadvantages of this method include, first of all, its unreliability, since initially it assumes a regular, constant menstrual cycle, which, unfortunately, no woman has.

TEMPERATURE METHOD

Based on the calculation of the fertile phase by measuring the basal (or rectal) temperature in women. Start measurement basal body temperature needed on the first day of the cycle. After waking up in the morning, without getting out of bed, you need to place the thermometer in the rectum at a level of 1-2 cm, and hold it there for 5-6 minutes. The data obtained must be entered into a special graph of your basal temperature. It should be remembered that throughout the entire time it is necessary to use one thermometer, and the temperature measurement should be carried out at the same time every day.

During the first half of the cycle, the basal body temperature is usually below 37°C. 12-24 hours before ovulation, body temperature drops by 0.1-0.2°C, and after ovulation it rises by 0.2-0.5°C (usually up to 37°C or higher). And this temperature is kept at this level throughout the second half of the cycle until the onset of menstruation. The fertile period begins six days before the preovulatory recession and lasts another three days after it (the total duration of the fertile phase is 9 days).

The advantages of the temperature method of contraception include: ease of use; lack of any side effects; the most accurate determination of the days of probable conception when planning a pregnancy.
To the disadvantages: high risk unwanted pregnancy(because a very large number of factors affect the level of basal temperature); the need for daily measurement of basal temperature.

COMMISSIONING

This method consists of complete elimination the male penis from the woman's vagina until ejaculation begins. Interruption of sexual intercourse is one of the least effective methods of contraception. According to statistics, out of a hundred couples who use this method, approximately 20-25% experience an unplanned pregnancy. First, during the onset of sexual intercourse, a certain amount of active spermatozoa is released along with natural lubrication. Secondly, not every man can control himself during an orgasm. Also, when having sex again, you should use a different method of contraception to avoid getting sperm into the vagina. The advantages of this method include accessibility and simplicity, while the disadvantages are the incomplete satisfaction of the partners with the process.

EMERGENCY (aka postcoital, fire) CONTRACEPTION combines methods of preventing unwanted pregnancy, which are used after unprotected intercourse has taken place. Most funds emergency contraception can be purchased at pharmacies without a prescription and used on your own, but we strongly recommend that you consult a doctor so that he selects the most optimal method of emergency contraception for you, checks for contraindications to the chosen method and selects the required dosage.

TYPES OF EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION:

1) douching
Douching with a variety of solutions, even immediately after unprotected intercourse, is very ineffective, because spermatozoa penetrate the cervical region within a minute after ejaculation. Also, do not forget that a small amount of active spermatozoa can stand out directly during sexual intercourse - with lubrication.

2) Hormonal contraceptives
First way to use hormonal contraception- simultaneous intake of several types of COC tablets (combined oral contraceptives). The number of tablets required for taking is based on the dosage of the hormone level in the preparations: Miniziston, Rigevidon, Femoden, Marvelon, Microgynon, Regulon - two times four tablets (the interval between taking is 12 hours), Logest, Mercilon, Novinet - two times five tablets. This method called the Yuzpe method and it is effective for three days after unprotected intercourse. The efficiency of this method is not very high - 75-85%.

The main advantage of this method is its availability, since all drugs are sold in any pharmacy without prescriptions. Side effects after application - nausea, pain in the mammary glands, vomiting, dizziness, headache.

An alternative to COCs is preparations that contain only progestins and do not contain estrogens. The most effective drugs of this type are Escapel and Postinor. Escapelle contains 1.5 mg of the hormone and is used once. Postinor also contains 0.75 mg of levonorgestrel and it must be applied twice with an interval of 12 hours. Minor side effects that can be caused by hormonal emergency contraceptive methods usually resolve within two days.

It must be remembered that after using methods of emergency hormonal contraception, it is imperative to use additional methods of contraception until the next menstrual cycle: spermicides, condoms, etc.

3) Non-hormonal emergency contraception
Mifepristone (Ginepristone) is one of the most effective drugs emergency protection. A single dose of this drug within three days after unprotected intercourse has occurred causes a slowdown in ovulation (this process depends on the phases of the menstrual cycle), a change in the endometrium, and also prevents the attachment of a fertilized egg.

This drug has less pronounced side effects - for example, the frequency of bleeding is only 15%, compared with 31% when taking levonorgestrel. The effectiveness of this method of emergency contraception is 98.8%. The advantages of this method include the fact that it can be used for a longer period compared to other means of emergency contraception, as well as the fact that after its administration there are practically no hormonally dependent side effects.

4) Intrauterine devices
Another way to prevent an unplanned pregnancy is to use an intrauterine device (IUD). To achieve the desired effect, copper-containing IUDs are inserted within five days after unprotected intercourse.

Emergency contraception is an alternative to abortion, but it is strongly discouraged from being used as permanent contraception, but only in "emergency" situations (maximum once every six months). Since the frequent use of emergency methods of contraception can lead to a violation of the reproductive functions of a woman.

Prevention of unwanted pregnancy is one of the most pressing issues of concern to all women. Everyone understands perfectly well that abortions bring great harm to the female body. However, gynecologists are seriously concerned about the current situation: despite the fact that now there are new generation contraceptives, the number of unplanned pregnancies ending in abortions is growing every year.

What makes women refuse to use effective new generation contraceptives, take reckless risks, and, in the end, go for an abortion? The financial side of the issue? It can hardly be called an objective reason - the methods and means of contraception are very diverse. If desired, a woman with absolutely any income can choose for herself suitable means protection from unwanted pregnancy. In fact, most methods and means of contraception do not cause much damage to a woman's budget. Abortion will entail much more damage to a woman, both financial and moral.

If the reason for the refusal of women from means of protection from unwanted pregnancies is not the material side, then what? What makes women risk their health and ignore contraceptive methods? As the results of many years of observation of gynecologists, as well as statistics show opinion polls, most often guilty of refusing to use contraceptive methods are banal reasons:

• Ordinary laziness. A woman does not want to look for suitable methods to prevent unwanted pregnancy. However, the hope for "maybe" sooner or later will lead a woman to an unwanted pregnancy. If you do not want to choose contraceptive methods for a long time, the spiral is exactly what you need. In order to use such a method of contraception as a spiral, you will have to spend only a few hours once going to a gynecologist, after which you can forget about the problem of contraception for several years. This is the best method of contraception for those women who do not want to keep track of their menstrual cycle or pill intake.
• Ignorance of the principle of action of most methods of preventing unwanted pregnancy. Unfortunately, the harm of contraceptives in the minds of many women is greatly exaggerated. Often, whole legends are formed around the means of contraception, transmitted from one woman to another, each time acquiring more and more horrific details about the dangers of contraceptives. If a woman fears for her health, she needs to consult a gynecologist who will help her choose the safest method of contraception, taking into account precisely her health characteristics and needs.
• Hope for a rhythmic method of contraception. Many women use rhythmic methods of contraception. However, they do not take into account the fact that for the successful use of the calendar method of contraception, the menstrual cycle of a woman must be very, very stable. This method is far from the safest method of contraception.
• Fear of women to use contraceptive methods while breastfeeding. Many mothers believe that this can bring serious harm to the health of the baby. However, in reality, this is not the case. The use of contraceptives while breastfeeding is absolutely safe and can in no way harm the health of the crumbs. If a woman is still very afraid, she can always choose non-hormonal contraceptives for herself. What they are will be discussed below.

A lot is said about the dangers of abortions that women have to do because of the neglect of modern methods of contraception. Therefore, this article will not focus on this issue. It tells about what modern methods of contraception exist, and also gives a classification of contraceptive methods.

Natural methods of contraception

The physiological method of contraception is one of the favorites of many women, despite its imperfection. There are two types of physiological method of contraception:

• Temperature method of contraception.
• Calendar method of contraception.

The female body is arranged in such a way that a woman can become pregnant far from every day, but strictly on certain days of her menstrual cycle. Pregnancy is possible only during ovulation. Ovulation is the process of release of a mature egg from the ovaries.

Any biological method of contraception is based precisely on this feature of the female body. And that is why, for protection by biological methods of contraception, it is very important that a woman has a stable menstrual cycle.

The natural method of contraception, called calendar, allows you to determine the time of ovulation by counting and scheduling days favorable for conception. In order to do this, a woman must know some of the features of the conception process.

Fertilization of the egg is possible only within one day from the moment of release from the ovary. The sperm cell retains the ability to fertilize the egg for three days from the moment of penetration into the vagina. Based on this feature natural methods contraception, including calendar.

To begin with, a woman needs to determine the length of her menstrual cycle. For the first day of the cycle, you must take the first day of menstruation. Subtract 18 days from the resulting duration - you will get the first day favorable for conception. After that, subtract 11 from the first day of the menstrual cycle - you will get the last "dangerous" day. Remember that the reliability of such biological method contraception is possible only in the case of a stable cycle for at least a year.

The temperature method of contraception is a more reliable contraceptive, as it is based on a constant accurate measurement basal body temperature. The basal places where this temperature is measured are the oral cavity, vagina, and rectum.

In the evening, prepare a notebook, a pen and a thermometer. It is preferable to use ordinary mercury, as its readings are more accurate, and accuracy is very important for an effective method of contraception. Immediately after waking up, without getting up in bed, measure the temperature in the rectum for 10 minutes. Try to take your temperature at the same time every day. After that, immediately write down the testimony in a notebook, do not rely on your memory.

The temperature must be measured for at least a month. After that, the woman needs to draw up a schedule, vertically noting calendar dates, and horizontally - basal temperature. Then connect the dots together. As a result, you will get a graph of your menstrual cycle.

Immediately after the ovulation process has occurred, the basal temperature rises sharply, amounting to approximately 37.3 degrees Celsius. Most auspicious days for conception, this is the time within 4 days before and after the temperature rise.

This method is difficult to attribute to the best method contraception, as it is not reliable enough, but its adherents talk about some of its advantages over traditional methods of contraception. For the sake of objectivity, these pluses are listed below:

• There is no need to introduce foreign substances into the body, as, for example, when using barrier methods of contraception.
• Unlike pills to prevent unwanted pregnancy, these methods are classified as safe contraceptives.
• Also, believing women prefer to use these methods, as these are the only methods allowed by the church to prevent unwanted pregnancy.
• Such methods are non-hormonal methods of contraception.

The downside of these methods is only one, but very significant - although they are safe contraceptives, they are very unreliable.

Birth control pills

Methods of contraception for women in our time are quite wide. Including birth control pills. Pills are fairly reliable contraceptives that protect against pregnancy in about 98% of cases. Such a high degree of protection is achieved due to the artificially synthesized sex hormones included in the tablets.

Oral contraceptives inhibit ovulation processes, and also change normal structure uterine mucosa, thereby excluding the possibility of implantation of the embryo even if fertilization did occur. Thus, pregnancy prevention pills provide a multi-layered level of protection. That is why pills are considered the most reliable method of contraception.

Some women worry about whether pregnancy is possible after contraceptives, especially hormonal drugs. Such fears are absolutely groundless, absolutely all the changes taking place in female body, are completely reversible and disappear after the woman stops taking oral contraceptives. In addition, contraceptives such as pills have a very "pleasant" side effect - almost all women notice a significant improvement in the condition of the skin, nails and hair.

In some cases, hormonal contraceptives for women are prescribed by gynecologists with therapeutic purpose, for correction . Remember that the independent choice of hormonal contraceptives for women is unacceptable. Only a gynecologist should prescribe hormonal contraceptives for women. After all, it is possible to choose truly effective methods of contraception, only taking into account all the individual characteristics of the female body.

Doctors identify several advantages of hormonal contraceptives for women:

• Stabilization of the menstrual cycle in those women in whom it was irregular.
• Also hormonal methods female contraception almost completely eliminate premenstrual syndrome and unpleasant physical sensations during menstruation.
• Hormonal methods of contraception for women protect a woman from such a common disease as iron deficiency anemia.
• In women using hormonal methods of female contraception, the risk of developing all kinds of inflammatory diseases of the reproductive system is reduced by 60%.
• In addition, the risk of developing various neoplastic diseases. Moreover, there is a pronounced therapeutic effect. For example, in those women who used hormonal contraceptives for fibroids, doctors noted a significant improvement in their condition, and even complete cure.
• The risk of developing osteoporosis in those women who use hormonal female contraceptives is reduced significantly, which is also important. Unfortunately, a good half of all women face osteoporosis. This is also worth paying attention to when choosing contraceptives after 35 years.
• A wonderful prevention of the occurrence in the future of such a formidable complication as ectopic pregnancy.
• The use of female hormonal contraceptives significantly improves skin condition and treats a large number of skin diseases associated with hormonal disorders.

However, listing the numerous advantages, it is worth mentioning also about negative aspects that this most effective method of contraception has:

• Women who have opted for this method of preventing unwanted pregnancy may experience an intermittent increase blood pressure. However, such a side effect is very rare, in no more than 5% of cases and, as a rule, in women who suffer from hypertension.
• Modern hormonal contraceptives can cause seizures cholelithiasis those women who suffer from it.
• When choosing pills - the most effective contraceptives - it must be borne in mind that in the first months they can cause menstrual irregularities. These disturbances may manifest as spotting, or, conversely, the complete absence menstrual bleeding. This phenomenon should not be frightened, since it is temporary and disappears on its own, two to three months after the start of the drug. In the same case, if this did not happen, which is extremely rare, a woman needs to see a doctor who will help you choose another, more optimal, drug. After all, the effectiveness of contraceptive methods is ensured precisely through individual selection.
• The main argument against hormonal drugs, which is put forward by women who prefer non-hormonal methods of contraception, is a set of excessive body weight. In fact, the concentration of hormones in modern contraceptives is so low that it can in no way affect body weight. And weight gain is due to wrong balanced diet nutrition and malnutrition physical activity.
• Some drugs may cause enough discomfort in the mammary glands, reminiscent of sensations during pregnancy: the chest can fill up and even ache. As a rule, such sensations disappear after a few months after the start of the drug.
• In very rare cases there may be a severe headache, which is paroxysmal in nature. In the event that the headache occurs more than twice a week, the woman should immediately stop taking the medication and consult a doctor.
• Women using hormonal contraceptives after 40 often complain of occasional nausea, which almost never turns into vomiting. Doctors attribute this to age hormonal changes in the woman's body.
• Some women complain that after the start of taking the pills they experience emotional instability. However, doctors deny the connection with contraceptives.
• Quite often, in the first few months, a woman may notice a change in sexual desire. In some women, it rises, partly due to the fact that a woman stops being afraid of an unwanted pregnancy. And other women, on the contrary, complain of a decrease in sexual desire. However, this is also a temporary phenomenon, and a woman should not worry about this.
• In rare cases, when taking hormonal drugs, age spots may appear, especially on those areas of the skin that are exposed to direct sun rays. In the event of such a complication, the woman should notify her doctor. As a rule, after a couple of months the problem goes away by itself.

Barrier contraceptives

New methods of contraception give women a wide range of choices. If a woman does not want, for whatever reason, to drink birth control pills she can choose birth control local application. The principle by which vaginal contraceptives work is very simple: they use chemicals that are injected into the woman's vagina. When sperm enters, these chemicals, called spermicides, destroy them instantly. In addition, spermicides create a thin protective film on the vaginal mucosa, and the cervical secretions also thicken. Thus, an additional barrier for spermatozoa appears.

Two chemicals used in vaginal contraceptives stand out: benzalkonium chloride and nonoxynol. It is on their basis that a topical contraceptive, beloved by many women, called "Pharmatex" was created. Another very important plus that such contraceptives have when breastfeeding is complete safety for the baby, since the active ingredients do not penetrate into breast milk. The following describes the main types of contraceptives in this group.

Contraceptin belongs to the group of "chemical contraceptives", disinfects, has an antibacterial effect and kills spermatozoa. This is the best contraceptive for those women whose sex life is irregular. This tool does not require systematic use, it is enough to enter once, immediately before sexual intercourse. vaginal suppositories into the vagina.

Nonoxylol also belongs to the group of "chemical contraceptives". It also has a pronounced spermatocidal effect, leads to immobilization and death of spermatozoa. In addition, this drug has a pronounced antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal effect, which ensures sufficient high level protection against many sexually transmitted diseases. Exactly the same action has Patentex Oval. The form in which these contraceptives are produced is candles.

Gramicidin paste continues the list of contraceptives. The active ingredient in this chemical contraceptive is the antibiotic gramicidin. It has a powerful bactericidal and contraceptive. In addition, very often its use is recommended for those women who suffer from inflammatory diseases cervix or vagina.

Chemical methods of contraception also offer this effective remedy like traceptin. This is a very effective contraceptive. Produced in the form of tablets that must be inserted into the vagina immediately before sexual intercourse itself. However, such chemical method contraception can cause such a side effect as a strong burning sensation in the vagina. If you are faced with such a problem, you should turn your attention to other local contraceptives.

Latest Methods contraceptives offer a woman such a tool as Pharmatex. It is a contraceptive drug, reliably protects against the onset of unwanted pregnancy. In terms of its effectiveness, it can be put on a par with contraceptives such as candles, a spiral and pills. The risk of pregnancy is less than 1%. In addition, this chemical agent pregnancy protection has high ability protect women from many sexually transmitted diseases. It has a depressing effect on such pathogenic flora as candida, chlamydia, herpes, gonococci and chlamydia.

This tool is one of the best methods of contraception during breastfeeding, also for those women who are contraindicated in intrauterine contraceptives - a spiral. Pharmatex does not have any contraindications and side effects, it can even be safely used as a contraceptive after 40 years.

Pharmatex is available in several forms:

• vaginal balls. They are inserted 3 minutes before the onset of sexual intercourse, deep into the vagina.
• The second form is a cream. The cream also needs to be injected just before intercourse deep into the vagina.
• Tampons. They are introduced into the vagina before intercourse, the protective effect lasts 24 hours, while similar contraceptives are one-time. And before each new sexual intercourse, it is necessary to introduce a new dose of the drug.

If candles are used, make sure that they are at hand in right time so as not to start frantically rushing about in search of the treasured box.

Some women prefer the rather exotic contraceptive patch, for example. The patch is glued to the woman's skin on a certain period during which there is protection against the onset of unwanted pregnancy. What is the basis of the action of such a contraceptive as a patch? Under its influence, the level of hormones in the female body changes, which, in fact, has contraceptive action. It should be borne in mind that this method is quite young, so the effectiveness of this method of contraception is not yet reliably known.

Listing barrier contraceptives, the ring also cannot be ignored. In fact, the opinion that the ring is a non-hormonal contraceptive is erroneous. The principle of its action is the same as that of tablets. However, its advantage is that a woman does not need to constantly monitor the timely use. Such a contraceptive, like a ring, is enough to be placed in the vagina once - and for three weeks you can forget about the issue of protection. The hormones contained in the vaginal ring penetrate the bloodstream and provide protection against pregnancy.

Due to the action of hormones, the uterine mucosa changes - it thickens and loses its ability to implant a fetal egg. This tool reliably protects against unwanted pregnancy in 97% of cases, but do not forget that it does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases. That is why its use is justified only if there is a permanent sexual partner.

Spiral

Very often, a woman, in response to her question about which contraceptives are better, hears about the IUD. The IUD is an intrauterine device. Is it really the most reliable method of contraception? In order to understand this, you need to know by what principle there is protection against the onset of unwanted pregnancy.

The intrauterine device is a special flexible device designed to be inserted into the uterine cavity for a long time and provides protection against unwanted pregnancy. There are two types of IUDs:

• Non-drug spiral.
• Medical. Such a coil may contain substances such as copper, silver, gold, progesterone and other drugs.

The shape of the intrauterine device can also be very diverse: both in the form of a ring, and in the form of a spiral, in other modifications. The most commonly used material for the manufacture of intrauterine devices is plastic. The spiral combines the advantages that barrier methods of contraception and hormonal contraceptives have.

Protection against pregnancy occurs due to the fact that the spiral:

• Causes thickening of the mucus of the cervical canal of the uterus.
• Significantly reduces the speed of movement of the egg into the uterine cavity.
• Reduces the ability of spermatozoa to penetrate the uterine cavity.
• Causes changes in the structure of the uterine mucosa.

Intrauterine device for this moment is the most effective method contraception, it gives 99% guarantee of protection against unwanted pregnancy. In addition, if we compare contraceptives for lactating women, the comparison will be in favor of the spiral. It is completely safe for the baby, because even when using a medical spiral, not a drop of the drug will penetrate into breast milk.

A woman can put an IUD at any time convenient for her, regardless of the day of the menstrual cycle, which allows the woman to choose the day that is convenient for her to go to the doctor. In addition, if you choose contraception after childbirth, the spiral is the best option for you, as it can be inserted immediately after childbirth, as well as after an uncomplicated abortion.

The intrauterine device is the best contraceptive for women who want to achieve long-term and effective protection against pregnancy. However, when choosing contraceptives for girls, you need to know that the use of a spiral in nulliparous women Not recommended.

It is not recommended to leave the spiral in the uterine cavity longer than indicated in the annotation. Also, in no case is it permissible to independently extract the spiral. Summing up, I would like to once again draw attention to some facts:

• A contraceptive such as a spiral can be used as a method of contraception after childbirth. Take care of purchasing a spiral in advance and inform the doctor about your desire.
• The intrauterine device is an absolutely safe contraceptive for lactating women, since the device does not harm the baby.
• Those women who are contraindicated in the use of hormonal contraceptives after 35 years of age can use the spiral without fear of a deterioration in their health.
• I would like to draw the attention of women to the fact that the intrauterine device does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases. That is why the use of a spiral is justified only if a woman has a permanent sexual partner.

Contraceptives for men

Very often, girls are interested in what contraceptives for men exist, and are there any at all? Despite the fact that their choice is small, methods of contraception for men do exist. All currently available male contraceptives are described below.

Coitus interruptus is one of the most popular methods of contraception for men. The essence of this method is as follows: the penis is removed from the woman's vagina before the onset of ejaculation. However, the reliability of this method of male contraception is very small.

Very often, at the very beginning of sexual intercourse, a small amount of spermatozoa is released, but quite sufficient for the fertilization of the egg. According to statistics, every third sexual intercourse using its interruption as a male contraceptive leads to an unwanted pregnancy. Also, with the constant use of coitus interruptus, a significant decrease in male potency is possible.

Talking about what male methods of contraception are, the condom also cannot be ignored. As everyone knows, a condom is a latex elastic sheath that is worn over an excited penis. The method of contraception using a condom has several distinct advantages over other male methods.

A condom prevents sperm from entering the vagina, thereby completely eliminating the risk of an unwanted pregnancy. It also eliminates direct contact between the penis and the vagina, so there is no risk of infection with sexually transmitted diseases. In addition, a condom is a one-time contraceptive, ideal for those men and women whose sex life is irregular. In addition, it can be used by those couples who are not suitable for other methods of contraception after childbirth for some reason.

The use of condoms has no contraindications and does not require large financial costs. However, it also has a minus - the condom can break. In this case, the woman will be forced to pay attention to the methods of emergency contraception.

There are also less common methods of male contraception, such as sterilization and hormonal drugs. Since birth control pills for men are still in the testing stage, they will not be discussed in this article, but read on for what sterilization is.

Male sterilization is called a vasectomy. Its principle is to cross the vas deferens. The operation is under local anesthesia and lasts about 10 minutes. About a month after the procedure, the man completely loses the ability to have children. However, this process is completely reversible if a man wants to have children in the future.

This procedure It absolutely does not have any negative impact on the health of a man: his normal hormonal background does not change, his sexual desire and potency do not decrease.

To date, this is complete list known contraceptives for men.

Emergency contraceptive methods

Unfortunately, unforeseen situations periodically arise in life and unprotected sexual acts occur. In order to prevent unwanted pregnancy, there are methods of emergency contraception. I would also like to remind women that if they need emergency contraception, alternative methods will not help them.

There are certain contraceptives after intercourse that prevent pregnancy even if the intercourse was unprotected. Contraceptives after sex are available in the form of pills containing a large amount of hormones.

Contraceptives after the act according to the principle of their action and chemical composition are divided into two types:

• Contraceptives after sex, the main active ingredient in which is levonorgestrel. The most well-known methods of emergency contraception belonging to this group are drugs such as Escapel and Postinor. They belong to the group of hormonal drugs, they can be purchased at the pharmacy without a prescription.
• Contraceptives after sexual intercourse, related to non-hormonal drugs, based on such an active substance as mifepristone. The most famous contraceptive after the act, belonging to this group, is Postinor. Non-hormonal drugs can be used as emergency contraceptives for adolescents.

The principle by which the method of urgent contraception works is that the process of blocking ovulation occurs, which excludes the possibility of fertilization. In the same case, if fertilization occurred before the drug was taken, the drug excludes the possibility of implantation of the fetal egg in the uterine cavity.

Although such products can help prevent unwanted pregnancy, a woman should remember that these are single-use contraceptives that should not be abused. It is also necessary to take into account the fact that this type of contraceptive does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

Teenage contraception

No matter how indignant older people are about moral licentiousness modern society and obscene, in their opinion, the behavior of adolescents, teenage sex was, is, and will be. And it is extremely unreasonable on the part of adults to try to hide their heads in the sand - from denying the existence of a problem, it will not go anywhere. It is much wiser to help children and educate them about contraceptive methods for teenagers. This will help avoid problems with sexually transmitted diseases and unplanned pregnancy.

The latest methods of contraception allow you to choose the most optimal means that will not have Negative influence to a growing body. In order to understand how to choose contraceptives, it is necessary to take into account some features characteristic of teenage sexual intercourse.

• In most cases, sexual intercourse among adolescents is not regular, so it is absolutely inappropriate to use new planned methods of contraception.
• Unfortunately, during adolescence, casual sex is very common, which greatly increases the chances of contracting sexually transmitted diseases. Therefore, contraceptives for adolescents are faced not only with the task of eliminating unwanted pregnancy, but also protecting against sexual infections.
• Contraceptive methods for girls must be very reliable, as an abortion at such a young age can lead to serious consequences.

Taking into account all the above features of the sexual life of adolescents, we can draw the following conclusion on how to choose contraceptives and what you should pay attention to if the teenager categorically refuses to go to the doctor:

• The method of contraception for girls should be reliable in terms of preventing sexually transmitted diseases. It also protects against unwanted pregnancies.
• Contraceptives for girls should not be harmful to their health.
• In addition, the method of contraception for adolescents should be accessible.

Most ideally, all of the above requirements are met by condoms, or non-hormonal contraceptive pills. But their use is possible only if the girl has one permanent and reliable sexual partner.

Folk contraceptives

So, you have learned about what contraceptives are. However, before summing up, I would like to mention folk contraceptives.

Unfortunately, even in our time, many women rely on alternative methods of contraception. And they absolutely ignore effective traditional methods of contraception. There are various contraceptives at home:

• Douching the vagina with a powerful pressure of water immediately after intercourse.
• Vaginal douching after intercourse with water in which a certain amount has been previously dissolved citric acid.
• Insertion of a slice of lemon into the vagina before intercourse.
• The introduction of a piece of laundry soap into the vagina before sexual intercourse.

Supporters folk methods contraceptives claim that a dramatic change alkaline balance in the vagina leads to the death of spermatozoa and excludes the possibility of pregnancy. In fact, such folk contraceptives will lead to the occurrence of such a disease as cervical erosion. Here's the birth control folk remedies impossible.

This article describes all methods and methods of contraception. Any woman who is responsible for family planning can choose the most effective contraceptive that is right for her. However, before making a final choice, it is still better to consult with your gynecologist, who knows about all your diseases and individual features organism. We sincerely wish that your test becomes "striped" only when you really want it!

Contraceptives can be divided into traditional and modern facilities. The degree of effectiveness of any of the methods of contraception is assessed using the Pearl index, cat. equals the number of unwanted pregnancies in 100 women using a particular method of contraception for 12 months.

Traditional methods of contraception:

Mechanical Methods :

- vaginal diaphragm – a metal ring with a rubber cap; the diaphragm is inserted in such a way as to cover the cervix and create a mechanical obstacle to the passage of spermatozoa into the cervix. The edges, inner surface, its outer surface should be lubricated with spermicides. The diaphragm is inserted before intercourse and removed 8-12 hours after it. There are several sizes of the vaginal diaphragm. Pearl index when using the vaginal diaphragm - 12;

- condom (condom) ) is a contraceptive used by men and is a saccular formation of thin elastic rubber with a thickness of less than 1 mm. Condoms are made of rubber, latex, plastic. A condom prevents sperm from entering the vagina. The Pearl Index is 20.

2. Chemical contraceptives (vaginal spermicides ) - destroy spermatozoa in no more than 1-2 minutes. Pearl index when using chemical contraceptives - 30.

- spermicides used in the form of douches - vinegar solution boric solution acid or lactic acid, solution of permanganate K, 20% chloride solution sodium, solution of lemon juice;

- vaginal spermicidal balls and tablets (containing boric acid, chinosol and tannin);

- gramicidin paste .

3. Rhythmic methods:

- calendar method - based on determining the time of ovulation and limiting the number of sexual intercourse in the periovulatory period (2-3 days before ovulation and 2-3 days after it). Pearl index - 24.

- temperature method - determination of the time of rise in basal temperature by measuring it daily in the morning for 10 minutes. And abstaining from sexual intercourse on the day of the fall and the first 3 days of the rise in basal temperature. Pearl index - 6.

Modern means of contraception:

1. Intrauterine contraception:

1). Neutral intrauterine devices (IUD) - the most widely used Lips loop (a polyethylene device in the form of a double Latin letter), IUD in the form of the letter T and the number 7. The mechanism of action of neutral IUDs - disrupt the implantation of a fertilized egg, which is associated with accelerated peristalsis of the fallopian tubes and the resulting oocyte deficiency. Pearl index when using neutral naval forces 4.

2). Medical IUDs - contain copper, gestagens. The mechanism of action of medical IUDs:

Copper has a bactericidal and spermicidal effect;

Gestagens change the properties of cervical mucus, which leads to difficulty in the penetration of spermatozoa into the uterine cavity, and also causes the inability of the endometrium to implant an egg.

The Pearl Index when using medical IUDs is 1-2.

Contraindications to the use of IUDs:

Acute and subacute inflammatory diseases of the genital organs;

Chronic inflammatory processes with frequent exacerbations;

Infectious-septic diseases and fever of any etiology;

Isthmic-cervical insufficiency;

Benign and malignant tumors of the genital organs;

Polyps of the cervical canal;

Erythroplakia and leukoplakia of the endometrium;

Polyposis and endometrial hyperplasia;

Tuberculosis of the genital organs;

Malformations of the uterus;

Intrauterine synechia;

Violations of the menstrual cycle by the type of meno- or metrorrhagia;

Violations of the blood coagulation system, accompanied by increased bleeding.

The IUD is inserted by a doctor in compliance with the rules of asepsis on the 5-7th day of the menstrual cycle, after an artificial abortion - immediately (or after the next menstruation), after childbirth - after 3 months. Necessary conditions are: normal blood picture, 1-2 degree of frequency of the vagina. After the introduction of the IUD, the doctor should examine the woman in a week, after the first menstruation, then after 3 months, subsequent examinations are carried out 1 time in 6 months. The duration of the IUD in the uterine cavity is 3-5 years.

Complications of intrauterine contraception:

Lower abdominal pain;

Uterine bleeding;

Ectopic pregnancy;

Uterine pregnancy, often ending in spontaneous abortion;

Perforation of the uterus (partial - with the introduction of the IUD into the muscle of the uterus in the area of ​​the bottom or side walls; complete - with the movement of part or all of the IUD into the abdominal cavity).

2. Hormonal contraception. Classification of hormonal contraceptives.

Today, there are many ways to prevent unwanted pregnancy. A wide selection allows you to choose the most suitable contraceptive for each woman. In an irregular relationship, it is also important to take care of protection. How to decide on the method of contraception and what to look for when choosing? Let's try to understand this issue in more detail.

Why is contraception necessary?

Every woman sooner or later thinks about how to avoid unwanted pregnancy. At the same time, it is absolutely not necessary to exclude love joys from life, which, by the way, negatively affects the psycho-emotional state. Modern medicine currently offers a large number of different methods of contraception.

The use of contraceptives can save women Health and reproductive function. The selection of the optimal method should be done by a gynecologist, since the age, anamnesis and regularity of the patient's sexual life are taken into account.

What are the contraceptives?

To protect against unwanted pregnancy, there are many types of contraception, each of which is suitable in a particular situation. They are usually divided into traditional and modern. The former include coitus interruptus, barrier methods (condoms, diaphragm), spermicides, non-hormonal agents and a biological (calendar) method of protection.

Modern types of prevention of egg fertilization are the most popular, as they give an almost 100% guarantee. These include hormonal IUDs(intrauterine devices), injections, vaginal rings. Each method has its own indications, side effects and contraindications. Therefore, without consulting a specialist, it is unlikely that it will be possible to choose effective contraceptives.

Hormonal methods of contraception

The most common and reliable are based on female hormones (synthetic analogues) - estrogen and progesterone. Some may be single-component and contain only progesterone, in which case they are called mini-pills. They are the most gentle for the body. Combination contraceptives may contain various doses the main active ingredient.

The action of hormonal agents to protect against unwanted pregnancy is to block the maturation of the egg and the onset of ovulation. Mini-pills affect only the uterine mucosa, making it looser, and the excreted secret becomes viscous. This prevents the sperm from fertilizing the egg. Pregnancy planning can be started as early as 2-3 months after the end of taking birth control pills, when the reproductive function is fully restored.

Benefits of hormonal drugs

past generation hormonal pills had a number side effects, which caused many women to abandon their use. The newest contraceptives are well tolerated by the body and are practically devoid of unpleasant consequences use. They are produced in patches, injections, vaginal rings and hormonal implants.

Oral contraceptives containing one type of hormone (mini-pill) are allowed to be taken during lactation. The components of the medicine do not affect the baby's body. To normalize the menstrual cycle or medical abortion, women are advised to take combined preparations. They allow not only to further prevent the fertilization of the egg, but also to protect against inflammatory diseases.

The benefits of hormonal drugs include the elimination of skin problems. Sex hormones are known to affect sebum production. If a violation occurs, male hormones begin to develop in more than women's, and, as a result, acne appears on the skin.

Quite often, women are prescribed for the treatment of polycystic ovaries and the elimination of severe pain during menstruation. It has been scientifically proven that such drugs have a preventive effect and significantly reduce the risk of developing oncology of the mammary glands, uterus, ovaries, and also prevent mastopathy, endometriosis and fibromyoma.

Contraindications

You should carefully study the list of contraindications for taking to prevent pregnancy. The main factors prohibiting the use of oral contraceptives are:

• Cardiovascular diseases ( ischemic disease, hypertension, stroke, heart attack), venous pathologies.
• Kidney diseases.
• Oncology.
• The last stages of obesity.
• Autoimmune diseases.
• Benign neoplasms.
• Venereal diseases.
• Vaginal bleeding in the intermenstrual period of unknown etiology.
• Pregnancy.
• Diabetes.

Each drug has its own list of contraindications, and therefore you should seek the help of a specialist who will help you choose the right hormonal contraceptives. With an irregular relationship, such drugs can also be abandoned. Non-hormonal contraceptives- most suitable method protection against unwanted pregnancy if sexual contacts occur less than once a week.

The mechanism of action of non-hormonal contraceptives

Non-hormonal methods are very relevant during lactation, with irregular sexual relations, or if hormonal drugs are not allowed to be taken. The action of such funds is based on the destruction or damage of spermatozoa. Non-hormonal contraceptives reviews are very diverse. For some women, this is the best and safest way of family planning, while for others it is completely untrustworthy.

The composition of non-hormonal preparations contains special substances - spermicides, which contribute to damage to the membrane of spermatozoa, which provokes their death. The active ingredient can be nonoxynol, benzalkonium chloride. Substances form a thin film on the mucous surface of the vagina, performing protective function, as well as contributing to the thickening of mucous secretions. Non-hormonal ones are injected directly into the vagina, where they begin to act within 10-15 minutes. That is why they are referred to as barrier methods of contraception.

Are non-hormonal remedies effective?

Non-hormonal contraceptives cope with the task in only 80% of cases. For women who are active sexual life, this method is not reliable. Local protection is suitable for irregular contacts, the impossibility of using oral contraceptives and intrauterine hormonal spiral, some diseases of the female genital organs, endocrine pathologies, during breastfeeding.

The main advantage of non-hormonal remedies is absolute safety for health and the absence of serious side effects (in rare cases, itching is possible). A woman may not worry that she did not take a pill, as is the case with hormonal drugs, because the funds are used immediately before sexual contact.

Disadvantages of non-hormonal drugs

The disadvantages of non-hormonal contraceptives include:

1. Introduction before coitus - it is necessary to accurately control the process and inject the drug no later than 10 minutes before contact.
2. It is forbidden to take a shower immediately: soap neutralizes the acidic environment in the vagina created by the product. In the annotation to the preparations, you can find information that hygiene procedures are allowed only 2-3 hours after unprotected contact.
3. Short-term effect of the drug - the protection created by the drug lasts for 3-4 hours, that is, it is recommended to introduce a new tablet before the next contact, because the first one will no longer provide reliable protection.
4. The appearance of itching - some women note that after the introduction of the drug into the vagina, itching appears (an allergic reaction).
5. Intolerance to the components that make up the drug - in this case, do not use a contraceptive.

Types of non-hormonal contraceptives

Non-hormonal contraceptives in Lately are becoming more and more popular due to their security. They are classified according to the form of release (tablets, suppositories, creams, tampons, vaginal balls, aerosols) and the main active ingredient. Despite some differences, the main effect of the drugs will be the same. A wide selection of drugs allows a woman to choose the most suitable and easy-to-use contraception. It is recommended that you first read the annotation, which will indicate the method of administration of the drug and the duration of the effect.

Non-hormonal contraceptive pills

Girls and women who have contraindications to the use of hormonal contraceptives and who do not want to influence the hormonal background can use local contraceptive pills or suppositories. These are the most easy-to-use spermicide-based protection products.

Non-hormonal contraceptive pills for irregular relationships are the ideal protection against unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases for women. Quite often, they are used by girls who are afraid of side effects of oral contraceptives or, due to health reasons, cannot use other methods. Vaginal tablets can be selected independently or with the help of a gynecologist. Some manufacturers recommend combining them with other protection methods, such as a diaphragm.

The following non-hormonal contraceptives (for women) are most effective:

• "Benatex";
• "Pharmatex";
• "Patentex Oval";
• "Traceptin";
• "Conceptor".

Some of the listed drugs are based on the substance nonoxynol, which can somewhat prolong love joys by reducing sensitivity, others are benzalkonium chloride. In terms of effectiveness and mechanism of action, the drugs do not differ. A remedy should be preferred, to the components of which the woman will not have an allergic reaction in the form of burning and itching.

Pharmatex

Currently, the drug "Pharmatex" is the most popular among non-hormonal methods of contraception. As active ingredient benzalkonium chloride is a medicinal antiseptic with antifungal and contraceptive effects. At the local level, the drug destroys spermatozoa and enhances the secretion of a viscous secret, like other non-hormonal contraceptives.

With an irregular relationship, Farmateks candles will be the most convenient option for guard. Also, the drug is available in the form of a cream, vaginal tablets and capsules, tampons. Candles are valid for 4 hours, tablets - no more than 3. The manufacturer recommends introducing a new candle (tablet, capsule) with each subsequent sexual intercourse.

According to studies, "Pharmatex" can protect against gonococcus, chlamydia, Trichomonas, herpes virus type 2. At the same time, the agent does not have a detrimental effect on the microflora of the vagina and does not change normal level acidity.

"Patentex Oval"

When safe contraception is needed, non-hormonal yet effective contraceptives are selected. With irregular relationships, many women use a nonoxynol-based remedy - Patentex Oval. Its efficiency is from 80 to 90%. The drug is released in the form of vaginal foaming suppositories, which must be administered before sexual intercourse. In addition to protecting against unwanted pregnancy, suppositories provide antifungal and antiviral effects, that is, they protect a woman from many diseases transmitted through unprotected sexual contact.

Contraceptives after exposure

The method of emergency contraception is resorted to if sexual intercourse was completely unprotected. In order to definitely protect yourself from an unwanted pregnancy, it is recommended to take a contraceptive. After the act, no more than three days should pass.

One-time contraception is based on blocking the release of a mature egg from the ovary and preventing attachment to the uterine wall in case of fertilization. Doctors advise resorting to this method only in the most extreme situations. Popular remedies from this category include Postinor, Escapelle, Zhenale.

Contraception is a set of methods and means to prevent pregnancy at a certain point in time. Contraceptives are being improved every year, and it is quite difficult to choose one of them on your own, without the help of a specialist. Modern contraception affects both men and women, although contraceptives for women are most often used, it is easier to prevent the penetration of spermatozoa to the egg than to try to stop their formation. So which of the methods of contraception is the most effective, how to make the right choice?

At all times, the most reliable and trouble-free way to prevent conception was a firm female "No"! This method of contraception still works, but you should not ignore intimate life just because of the fear of pregnancy, it is enough to choose individual contraceptives and enjoy all the delights of sex.

What do you pay attention to when choosing contraceptive methods:

• contraceptive efficacy.
• Harmlessness.
• Ease of use.
• Guaranteed restoration of childbearing function after cancellation.
• Price.

Do not think that female and male contraception was invented in the 21st century, the history of use various methods goes back to ancient times. Even in the treatises of Pedanius Dioscorides (1st century AD), an ancient Greek military doctor and author of De Materia Medica, there are references to the root of Dioscorea (mandrake), which was used by the Mayans, Incas and Aztecs, and which is still used by modern pharmacologists when creating a number of oral hormonal contraceptives.

All methods are good in their own way.

A huge step in the creation of means to protect against unwanted pregnancy was made in the 20th century. Hormonal methods of contraception became popular after 1929, when the sex hormones estrogen and progesterone were discovered. But the very first oral contraceptive approved in practice was Enovid in 1960, containing 15 mg of norethinodrel and 0.15 mg of mestranol. The first generation drug turned out to be not to the taste of many, as it caused a lot of undesirable side effects due to the high content of hormones. It was this fact that gave rise to a lot of rumors about the excessive "harmfulness" of hormonal contraceptives, although contraceptives latest generation contain a minimum amount of hormones and have few side effects.

Unfortunately, the denseness in relation to methods of contraception persists in the 21st century not only among young people who begin sexual activity, but also among couples. In some regions of the Russian Federation, where civilization is reaching too slowly, abortion is still considered the most reliable method of not having children. You can talk about the medical and moral side of artificial termination of pregnancy for a long time, but it is better to know for sure what effective methods exist. modern facilities to prevent the emergence of new life.

Table number 1. Classification traditional methods contraception

Table No. 2. Classification of modern methods of contraception

All means of contraception are diverse, so it is impossible to consider any single method as the most effective and suitable for any person. Each of the ways to prevent unwanted pregnancy is based on a lot of physiological aspects:

• Biological (physiological) methods. The features of the fertile period in women are taken into account. Such methods are available, absolutely free and simply involve the absence of sexual activity during the period when pregnancy is most likely. But these methods have a very low percentage of safety, in almost 25% of cases, conception occurs, despite compliance with all the rules.
• Modern methods of contraception. These include the latest developments protective equipment that prevent pregnancy in women. The funds are intended for both men and women, although they still prevail female contraceptives as more convenient in development, production and application.

1. Intrauterine devices. They affect the mobility of the egg and sperm, prevent the implantation of the fetal egg. The Navy has high efficiency and a long period of validity, but the disadvantages include the fact that their independent use is excluded - the introduction and removal of the IUD is carried out only by a gynecologist.
2. Hormonal agents. Acting on the endocrine glands, they suppress ovulation and are highly effective. The disadvantages of hormonal contraceptives include the fact that the means of strictly individual purposes are selected by a gynecologist. Provide for daily use according to the scheme, have contraindications and a number of side effects that occur with an overdose of drugs.
3. Surgical means (sterilization). It is an irreversible method, it is used in both women and men. During surgical intervention blocked vas deferens or the fallopian tubes which automatically makes it impossible for the sperm and egg to meet. Of all the contraceptives, this one is the most reliable, with 100% effectiveness.
4. Male contraception. V last years began to gain popularity, although the point here is not only the complexity of development special means, but also in psychological aspect. Men have a strong, indestructible conviction - using contraceptives, they automatically become incapable of intimate life. Where such an unshakable confidence in “acquired impotence” came from is unknown, experts completely deny this fact. The new tool is a male "spiral" that resembles a mini-umbrella, which is inserted through the urethra into the scrotum. The tip of the "umbrella" contains a gel that kills spermatozoa and makes it impossible to conceive a child. This method does not bring any physical and physiological inconvenience, the man remains fully "capable" in intimate terms.

Certainly, short review of all modern methods of contraception known to science will not give complete confidence and a sense of protection, it is important not only to study each one on your own, but also to understand which means will become the most acceptable. Apart from physiological characteristics there are life aspects of the body, stable relationships may include other types of contraception, while in casual sexual relationships, each person is responsible for his own safety.

Expert opinions

What are the modern methods of contraception, how to use them and how each of them works? Only a doctor can answer all these questions in detail, he will also help assess the risks of using a particular method. It is important to remember that this also takes into account the time elapsed from an accidental (without protection) sexual intercourse, the presence of diseases not only in the genital area, and much more. You should not consider contraceptives as something unimportant, optional, applied from time to time.

All methods of contraception are divided into:

• Barrier.

Most traditional means popular in the last century. But over the past 30 years, they have been replaced by more modern and safe methods and their use has declined. Although, according to many experts, this happened undeservedly, since more modern means carry many complications and have a lot of contraindications. In this regard, it is necessary to improve barrier methods and return them "to service".

The principle of their action is based on preventing spermatozoa from entering the cervical mucus; when analyzing the impact on the body, the following points can be noted:

1. Local effects do not contribute to systemic changes in the body.
2. Minimum side effects.
3. A small percentage of protection against STDs.
4. Does not require the participation of highly qualified medical personnel.

Barrier methods also have a number of disadvantages that should not be ignored when assigning:

1. Less effective when compared to IUDs or oral contraceptives.
2. Successful application requires constant attention to them.
3. Allergic reactions to latex, rubber, polyurethane are possible.
4. Requires some knowledge of the application.
5. It is mainly used during intercourse or immediately before it, which introduces a certain psychological inconvenience.

• Chemical.

The basis of the action of spermicides is the inactivation of seminal fluid and sperm and the setting of a "block" on their way to the uterus. Each of the spermicides must have one very important property- the ability to destroy spermatozoa in a few seconds. Chemical contraceptives (spermicides) are available in the form of jelly, cream, foam, suppositories and tablets. Modern chemical contraceptives necessarily contain a carrier and a sperm-killing component (strong surfactants), both of them complement each other and fulfill their role - providing a contraceptive effect (Delphin, Contracentrol, Coromex, Neosampuun, Pharmatex, Ortoginal). All these drugs are used both with concomitant contraceptives (diaphragm, condom), and independently, using 10–15 minutes before sexual intercourse, and if there are several coitions, then a dose of spermicide must be added before each of them, which in some way is not very convenient .

Douching with solutions containing acid (lactic, boric, acetic, lemon juice) can be considered the prototype of the above means, but given that sperm enter the fallopian tubes already 80–90 seconds after ejaculation, this method of contraception is not considered reliable.

• Biological.

The method of periodic abstinence consists in calculating the "stray" days and those in which fertilization is definitely impossible. Despite some difficulties, these techniques have not lost their relevance to this day:

1. Rhythmic (calendar) method. It is ineffective if the woman's menstrual cycle is irregular, according to WHO, with correct application in 15% of cases, pregnancy does occur.
2. Temperature. Requires daily measurement of the temperature in the vagina to determine fertile days. The method is not widespread, although its effectiveness is relatively high.
3. Cervical. Or the Billing method, based on the observation of natural secretions from the vagina. With the onset of preovulatory days, there is a lot of cervical mucus, it is light and elastic. Ovulation is possible up to 5 days after the disappearance (reduction) of heavy discharge. The efficiency is not too high.
4. Symptothermal. Combines all three of the above methods and requires careful observation and record keeping. According to statistics, the possibility of pregnancy is reduced if sexual intercourse occurs only after the end of the ovulation period. If intimate acts are carried out before and after the ovulatory period, the possibility of conception increases by 5-6 times.

Each of their methods has its advantages and disadvantages, however, it requires certain inconveniences or risks from sexual partners. Despite this, they continue to be used everywhere, but experts still advise paying attention to more modern and reliable methods that have a higher degree of protection against unwanted conception.

• Intrauterine (IUD) contraception.

They first heard about it at the beginning of the 20th century, but then the Navy was completely different from modern ones and poorly protected women. And only after the 60s of the last century, the Navy firmly entered life and became very popular. Currently, there are over 50 varieties of intrauterine devices, which differ in the mass of parameters. are considered great way contraception, but in some cases their use is strictly contraindicated. An undoubted advantage is the possibility long-term use– 5–10 years, and the efficiency is estimated as 91–98%.

• Hormonal contraceptives.

They are considered the best based on efficiency (100%), but subject to all the rules of application and the absence of omissions in the reception of OK. In addition, before the appointment, it is important to find out if, for health reasons and age (after 40, it is impossible), taking hormonal drugs is allowed. Self-appointment, as well as the use of OK from time to time is unacceptable, this can lead to a serious failure in the hormonal system.

• Postcoital contraception.

Not recommended for use as permanent method, as it is regarded as a means of "ambulance" in non-standard situations. Loading doses of hormones cause serious malfunctions in the functioning of the reproductive system in women (the development of ovarian dysfunction). The most famous postcoital drugs are Postinor, Danazol, Mifepriston (Antiprogestin Ru-486).

• Sterilization

The method is completely voluntary, based on surgical intervention(DSH) in men and women. In addition to 100% protection results, it is economical and safe. However, irreversible, it is impossible to restore reproductive function after sterilization. The standard conditions for holding are the presence of at least 2 children in the family and the age of 35 years. For DSH, the patient signs the application with his own hand.

Used "female" methods:

1. Mr. Pomeroy.
2. Mr. Pritchard.
3. fibrioectomy.
4. Clamp Filshi.
5. Electrocoagulation.
6. Excision of the fallopian tube.

The choice of method is carried out by the doctor according to the anamnesis and taking into account all tests and concomitant diseases. When sterilizing, one should also take into account the possibility of long-term complications - ectopic pregnancy, although the rates of "contraceptive failure" are estimated at 0-0.8%.

For men, the DSH procedure is somewhat different. Vasectomy involves blocking the passage of sperm through the vas deferens. It is the simplest, cheapest and most reliable method of male contraception. Most men are afraid that vasectomy affects potency, experts in this regard reassure: the ability to have sex is not lost, only the fertile function of the sperm itself is disturbed.

Implants and injections

Separate modern methods consider Depo-Provera or an injectable progestogen contraceptive. This is a long-acting drug with a high degree of effectiveness, which occurs a day after the injection. The mechanism of action of Depo-Provera is similar to traditional progestogen OK, but experts highlight the exceptional advantages of injectable contraceptives:

1. High percentage of the effectiveness of the method.
2. There are no estrogen-dependent complications.
3. The method is easy to use.
4. Injections are allowed during breastfeeding.

In addition, most women note the presence of pleasant pluses: menstruation becomes less abundant and less painful, there is no PMS and iron deficiency anemia, the risk of developing endometrial cancer is reduced, etc.

A number of disadvantages are still inherent in long-acting injectables, so self-administration of Depo-Prover is excluded.

Progestogen implant for PC administration. The method is based on the use of the Norplant contraceptive, which consists of 6 silastic capsules that contain the progestogen levonorgestrel. Capsules are injected under the skin and provide a long-term contraceptive effect for up to 5 years. Currently, new types of implantable contraceptives are being developed, including those with a resorption effect (biodegradable capsules), which will not need to be removed after the allotted time.

What are the most effective contraceptives? What will give a woman confidence in 100% protection against pregnancy? The choice of method is carried out independently, but with mandatory consultation with a specialist. It is impossible to say unequivocally which of the methods of contraception is the best, each of them is unique in its own way, but in order for it to work for sure, you need to choose your method, then you can be sure that intimate life will not bring unexpected surprises.