Take a seat people, grab pen and paper and give me your undivided attention. We’re going to talk contraceptive choices. And no, this isn’t just a woman’s issue. It is everybody’s concern. Listen up and take notes. This is important stuff. So let’s get started.
Choices in Contraception
The choices in contraception abound in today’s society. There are more options now than ever before. They can be swallowed, inserted, injected, and attached to the body. Not all methods are discussed here, only the ones that can be obtained through a doctor. These are also the ones that are considered to be most effective at preventing pregnancy.
Hormonal Contraceptive Methods
Combined Oral Contraceptive (estrogen and progestin)- often referred to as “the pill”
Brand names: Currently there are 24 different types available, not including dosage variations within similar products. Ortho-Tricyclen is one of the most commonly prescribed.
How it works
One pill is taken every day for three weeks. In the fourth week placebo pills are taken or nothing at all. The pills contain estrogen and progestin hormones to block ovulation and thicken cervical mucus.
97-99 percent effective.
Progestin- Only “mini pill”
Brand name: Micronor
How it works
One pill is taken once a day, every day. There is no pill-free week and no placebos. The “mini pill” works by thickening cervical mucus and thinning the lining of the uterus. In some women it suppresses ovulation.
90-99 percent effective.
Transdermal Patch
Brand name: Ortho- Evra
How it works
“The patch” as it is called, is stuck directly onto a woman’s body and a new one is applied once a week for three weeks. The fourth week is patch-free. It works by slowly releasing estrogen and progestin, the same hormones as the combined oral contraceptive pill. Like the pill, it blocks ovulation and thickens cervical mucus. It is designed to stay on during bathing, swimming or exercise.