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Birth Control Methods for Male and Female
Having an effective birth control plan is essential for any couple who are afraid of early pregnancy that they are not ready for. Although there are pregnancy management techniques, it is important to note that prevention is always a better option. It is highly recommended by all health care professionals that you have a birth control plan that you can follow and rely on. But with so many options available for both men and women, which is the right option for you? Some methods might not suit you while others will work like a charm. With different types of birth control measures come different pros and cons and a varying level of effectiveness. There are also various accepted birth control practices that are used in society that is not always considered to be safe or effective. Here, we discuss the various birth control options available for both men and women that are considered safe by most healthcare specialists.
What is Birth Control?
Any technique or method to prevent a pregnancy or lower the chances of a pregnancy can be called birth control; there are many different types of birth control techniques. Some of these are more religious or considered not scientifically valid like the use of rosemary to prevent a pregnancy. It is advised that you seek the advise if your doctors before going on any form of birth control.
Some types of birth control can be considered hypoallergenic, to understand more about these forms of birth control, please consult your personal healthcare provider.
Birth control is any method, device or medicine used to prevent pregnancies. There are many that are medically considered trusted and have solid scientific evidence of prevention that is also low risk. The one that you need to opt for depends on your health, desire to have children, and if you need it to also protect you from sexually transmitted diseases as well.
Which is the Best Birth Control Method?
There is not one method that is considered to be the best form of birth control. There are numerous factors at play that will influence your choice of birth control, and if you have a partner, even their preferences and health will factor into the birth control of choice. If you are happy using one form of birth control now, the chances are that you might want to change the method as your preferences and priorities change. Some of the factors that will influence your birth control of choice are:
When and if you want children
The effectiveness of the method
Side effects
Your sexual activity
Your health
Your comfort level with the method
You must talk to your doctor about all these factors before deciding upon a particular form of birth control. It is advised that you consult a healthcare specialist if the method is uncomfortable or you have an unnatural reaction to the type of birth control you choose. Remember, consulting your doctor is also an opportunity to complete your routine STD checks, these checks are critical for your safety and the safety of those around you. It is recommended that you do a routine STD panel every 3 months during the time that your sexual activity is more routine.
Different Types of Birth Control Options for Men and Women
Birth control can be broadly divided into two main categories.
1. Contraception
Contraception is considered one of the most popular methods of birth control due to its relative availability and low risk of side effects, the contraception method ensures that the ovum is not fertilized by a sperm.
2. Contragestion
This is better known as the emergency contraception. The morning-after pill is taken to prevent a fertilized egg from attaching itself to the uterine wall, thus preventing pregnancy.
Comparison Chart of the Birth Control Method
Below is a chart that is a compilation of birth control methods along a degree of effectiveness and risk factors.
Method of Birth Control
Chances Of Child Birth
Effectiveness
Protection Against STDs
Abstinence
None
Completely effective
Yes
Birth Control Implant
Fewer than 1 out of 100
Very effective
No
IUD
Fewer than 1 out of 100
Very effective
No
Birth Control Patch
9 out of 100
Effective
No
Birth Control Pill
9 out of 100
Effective
No
Vaginal Ring
9 out of 100
Effective
No
Birth Control Injection
6 out of 100
Effective
No
Emergency Contraception
up to 11 out of 100 (if taken as per instructions)
Effective
No
Male Condom
18 out of 100
Moderately effective
Yes
Diaphragm
12 out of 100
Moderately effective
No
Female Condom
21 out of 100
Less effective
Yes
Fertility Awareness
24 out of 100
Less effective
No
Spermicide
29 out of 100
Less effective
No
Withdrawal
27 out of 100
Less effective
No
Sex Without Birth Control
85 out of 100
Not effective
No
Birth Control Options for Men
There are birth control options for both men and women. However, the options for men are far fewer than what is available to women. It is always recommended to combine numerous methods of birth control to ensure prevention is at a higher chance; this could, for instance, entail your partner wearing a condom, you going on the pill and during intercourse using the pull out method.
That being said, what are the safe and reliable birth control options on the market today that is available to both genders? Here are a few birth control methods that men can use.
1. Outercourse
Outercourse is the general term that refers to any type of sexual activity that does not include vaginal intercourse. This includes oral sex. Since there is no penetration of the vagina, the chances of pregnancy are greatly reduced.
Advantages
Partners can take more time with outercourse in order understand each other’s preferences and what gives them sexual pleasure.
No vaginal penetration reduces the chance of pregnancy.
No side effects caused from hormonal influence.
Reduced chance of contracting a sexual disease
Disadvantages
If pre-ejaculate or ejaculate is spilt on the vulva or surrounding regions, then there could be a chance of pregnancy.
Partners might find it hard to refrain from vaginal penetration after stimulation.
2. Condoms
Condoms are made from latex and are meant to be worn on top of the penis. It acts as a barrier between the skin of the penis and the vagina and collects the semen in order to prevent any sperm from entering the vagina.
Advantages
Condoms have one of the highest rates of effectiveness when it comes to preventing pregnancies.
Condoms are also the best way to prevent transmission of any sexual disease from one partner to the other.
They are cheap and easily available.
No side effects on either partner.
Disadvantages
A small percentage of the population has an allergy to latex which is what most condoms are made from.
Some men do not like how the condom feels.
Condoms can break, and this generally means that the contraceptive method has failed.
3. Withdrawal
One of the oldest forms of contraception, withdrawal involves pulling out the penis just before ejaculation.
Advantages
Partners can enjoy vaginal intercourse without any barriers.
The penis is removed before it ejaculates into the vagina which prevents pregnancy.
Disadvantages
It is possible for a woman to get pregnant even with the small amounts of sperm present in pre-ejaculation.
If the man has a history of premature ejaculation, then pulling out on time might be unreliable.
This method does not protect you from any sexually transmitted diseases.
4. Vasectomy
A vasectomy is a method of contraception that is permanent and is almost 100% effective. It involves the closing off or blocking of the tube in the penis that is responsible for carrying sperm. The sperm is not allowed to leave the body of the man and is instead absorbed by his body. You must keep in mind that a vasectomy is reversible.
Advantages
A vasectomy is almost 100% effective.
It is ideal for men who are sure that they do not want to have children anymore.
The procedure is simple and can be carried out in your doctor’s clinic in under 20 minutes.
None of your hormones is affected.
This method is reversible.
Disadvantages
The procedure is not effective immediately as there will be some build-up of sperm in the penis already that will take a few months to be dispelled.
This method does not protect you or your partner from sexually transmitted diseases.
It is imperative that you consult with your doctor before deciding on a particular form of birth control. Knowing all the risks and rewards involved will help you make a better choice.
Birth Control Options for Women
There many more forms of birth control methods for women. These options are all safe and ensure you will be able to safely have sex with lower risk of pregnancy; none of these techniques also harm the ability for your eggs to be fertilized in the future should you feel the need to have children down the line. Remember, to lower the risk of STD’s and pregnancy further, insist that your partner also use a type of birth control such as condoms. Here are a few female birth control methods that you can consider.
1. Birth Control Pills
These are considered to be one of the most effective forms of birth control for women. Pharmaceutical companies pump out hundreds of birth control pills, each claiming a different purpose, but they fall into two broad categories. The first type is known as combination pill and contains the hormones estrogen and progestin. The second only contains progestin. You must consult with your OB/GYN in order to understand which option will suit you best.
Advantages
This method is one of the most effective birth control options for women.
The pills reduce the severity of symptoms that occur during menstruation.
This method does not involve an option that has to be inserted or implanted in the body.
Disadvantages
Since these pills do affect your hormone levels, you might experience some side effects.
Some types of pills have to be taken every day at the same time, which some women might find it hard to do.
Certain women who are suffering from high blood pressure, blood clots, liver and heart valve issues will not be able to opt for this method.
2. Female Condoms
This is an inverted pouch made from latex that is inserted into the vagina in order to collect the ejaculate and prevent sperm from entering the vagina. It is disposable and can be worn up to eight hours before intercourse.
Advantages
This method does not involve any influence on hormonal levels.
It offers some amount of protection from sexually transmitted diseases.
It is widely available.
Disadvantages
It is not the most effective method of birth control.
Female condoms are made from latex which in some instances, can induce an allergic reaction.
It can be noisy.
3. Diaphragm
To be placed over the cervix just before sex, it is made from rubber and is shaped like a dome. This form of contraceptive can also be used in conjunction with a spermicide.
Advantages
It is a relatively cheap option, and one diaphragm can typically be used for up to two years.
This method does not involve any influence of hormones on the body.
No side effects.
Cheap and easy to find.
Disadvantages
Unfortunately, it does not offer protection from sexually transmitted diseases. Thus, avoid using this with sexual partners who you are not intimately familiar with.
You will have to get it fitted by a doctor.
It has a 16% failure rate
Cannot be used during menstruation due to the increased chances of toxic shock syndrome.
4. Vaginal Ring
The vaginal ring is a thin ring that is placed inside the vagina which then releases the same hormones as the pill. You have to replace the ring only once a month.
Advantages
You only have to replace the ring once a month.
It is just as effective as taking birth control pills.
Symptoms of menstruation will ease up.
Disadvantages
It is a relatively costly option.
The hormones might cause some side effects.
Might cause some type of vaginal irritation.
It offers little protection against sexually transmitted diseases, meaning that strangers would not qualify as safe sexual partners.
5. IUD
IUD stands for intrauterine device. It is a T-shaped plastic device and comes in two varieties. The first one is a hormone IUD which releases progestin to prevent pregnancy while the second type is wrapped in some copper. Both types prevent the sperm from reaching the ova. This prevents any chances of pregnancy.
Advantages
Depending on the type of IUD you opt for, once the IUD has been inserted, you do not have to worry about for 3 to 12 years.
This is one of the most reliable and effective methods of contraception available to women.
With an effective period of 120 hours after intercourse, it can be used as an emergency contraceptive measure.
It eases up the symptoms of menstruation.
The copper IUD does not affect hormone levels.
Disadvantages
There are some side effects that include nausea, irregular periods, and cramping.
This birth control method does not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases.
6. Tube Ligation
This is a birth control measure that has permanent consequences and recommended for women who are sure that they do not want to have children anymore. The fallopian tubes are tied off which prevents the ovum from leaving the ovaries.
Advantages
It is one of the permanent birth control methods and has 100% effectiveness.
No effect on hormones.
Disadvantages
If you choose to have children later on, it can be very expensive to reverse.
There could be some complications during the procedure.
This method does not protect you from the risk of contracting any sexually transmitted diseases.
It can be an expensive procedure if it isn’t covered by your insurance.
7. Birth Control Injection
This is an injection that is administered every three months. The birth control shot reduces the chances of pregnancy drastically, and you will have to take the injection only four times a year.
Advantages
This is a simple procedure to ensure that you get a high level of protection.
You have to get the shot only four times a year.
Disadvantages
It can have some side effects.
It can prove to be expensive if the procedure is not covered by your insurance.
This procedure doesn’t protect you from contracting any sexually transmitted diseases.
8. Birth Control Patch
This is a patch that releases hormones into your body at regular intervals, thus preventing the occurrence of pregnancy. It is placed directly on the skin you will need one patch per week.
Advantages
You do not have to worry about taking a pill at the same time every day.
This is a relatively cheap option.
It relieves more severe symptoms of menstruation.
Disadvantages
It will affect the hormone levels in your body.
It does not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases.
Some people might experience minor allergic reactions to the patch.
As you can see, there are many options for birth control for both men and women. When making the choice of birth control, it is best that you learn all the pros and cons of each option and also approach your doctor for advice. Not all of the above-mentioned methods are ideal for everybody. Your doctor will need to know your full medical history along with your partner’s if you have one.
You should also tell your doctor if you are planning on having children and when. It might seem premature to give a definitive answer to whether you might want to have children but having this conversation will help you and your doctor arrive at a solution that will suit your health and needs best. Be sure that you discuss any form of birth control side effects before you decide on a particular method.
It is also extremely important to educate yourself about sex, the role of birth control, STDs and safe sex practices. For this reason, it is recommended that you research the topic and also have an open and in-depth conversation with your doctor about these topics. It is always beneficial to prevent a possible pregnancy you aren’t ready for, planning your pregnancy allows your partner and you the time to prepare and ensure you are at a stable period in your life to care for the child, this is another reason to communicate with your partner and ensure he uses birth control options that are available to him. Read more
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These 7 Breakfast Foods Are The Secret To Mommy Karisma Kapoor's Fitness!
Karisma Kapoor might have turned 43, but she sure doesn't look the part! Find out the breakfast diet Karisma follows to keep her fit and fabulous!
Karisma Kapoor, Bollywood superstar of the 90's and mommy to little Samaira and Kiaan is an inspiration to many mommies out there for not only her beauty and grace but also for her fitness levels!
The yummy mummy recently celebrated her 43rd birthday, but you'd be hard-pressed to find a person who'd say she looks her age and we have the proof:
So what's her secret? Well, it seems like she swears by one major thing that keeps her looking fit and fabulous at 43 – aHealthy Breakfast!And her breakfasts are not only healthy, they look yummy too( well, atleast according to her Instagram)! Find out what breakfast foods are the secret to her fitness and get some inspiration for your next attempt at weight loss...
Healthy & Light Breakfast Foods That Are Perfect For Weight Loss
1. The Classic Eggs and Toast
The classic breakfast combo that most people swear by, eggs and toast are a healthy option too! Just switch out the white bread for multi-grain bread like Karisma for a healthier meal
2. Juicy Berry Combos
Berries are popular antioxidants that ward off certain health conditions and protect your skin and hair! Rich in fiber and liquid content, berries keep you feeling full and help control those unhealthy food cravings!
3. Milk Made Healthy!
Milk in itself is a whole meal with its various benefits but it can be boring and the fat in the milk sure doesn't help your weight loss cause! Take a cue from Karisma and switch to healthier alternatives like almond milk. Using Chia seeds, fresh fruits and dry fruits for some flavour will keep it tasty and healthy too!
4. Turkey Bacon
Pork Bacon has quite a few lovers around the world but if you are one of those, switching to Turkey Bacon maybe a healthier option! An occasional Turkey Bacon for breakfast like Karisma will keep you satiated when those crispy bacon cravings kick in!
5. Colourful Fruit Portions
Take a page from Karisma's book and stick to fruits like grapefruit and watermelon for your first meal of the day. Fruits are healthy alternatives for otherwise oily or heavy breakfasts that will keep you energetic through the day
6. The Irresistible Coffee
There are speculations that coffee helps in suppressing your appetite and keep you full. However, these are not confirmed but Karisma is a coffee lover so it might be helpful afterall! Coffee doesn't have any negative effects on weight loss either way – just remember to keep it sugar-free!
7. The Occasional Indulgence
We've saved the best for the last. From the looks of it Karisma might be extremely disciplined about her healthy breakfast regime, but she doesn't shy away from the occasional indulgence either! Be it waffles or crossiants, she goes all out when she does go for that little bit of indulgence!
Well, that was just her breakfast! Surely there is more to this B-town bombshell's "wow" body. Watch her talk candidly about her daily diet in the video below.
And the secret's out! It's time to get back on your weight loss mission with full-force and get as healthy as the fabulous Karisma Kapoor herself! All the best! Read more
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Sweet Potato Zucchini Patties
This simple and delicious dish is packed with the flavour of sweet potato and the crunchy texture of zucchini. They can be the best breakfast for your kid as well as a side dish during lunch or dinner. Very few dishes are as healthy as these baked zucchini patties.
Serves
Preparation Time
Cooking Time
4 People
5 - 10 Minutes
40 - 45 Minutes
Ingredients
2 cups sweet potato, grated
2 cups zucchini, grated
1/4 cup coconut oil
1 egg
2 tsp rice flour
2 tsp sriracha sauce / chilli-garlic sauce
1/2 tsp pepper powder
Salt to taste
Method
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 375 degree F.
Step 2
Place a parchment paper on the baking sheet. Brush it with 1 - 2 tsp of coconut oil and keep aside.
Step 3
Beat together egg and coconut oil in a bowl. Add sauce, pepper, flour and salt to it and blend well.
Step 4
Squeeze the grated zucchini and sweet potato to reduce the water content. Add these into the egg mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 5
Take a small portion of the mixture and place directly on the parchment paper. Flatten them and give them the shape of a patty.
Step 6
Place these patties in the oven and cook for 10 - 15 min. Later, reduce the heat of the oven to 350 degree F and cook for another 10 - 15 min.
Step 7
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and turn over the patties. Place it back in the oven and cook for another 15 min.
Step 8
Remove and serve hot.
Nutritional Information
Calories
256 K cal
Proteins
4.2 g
Fat
16.7 g
Carbohydrates
24.3 g
Cholesterol
43 mg
Sodium
161 mg
Potassium
639 mg
Read more
Dr Priyanka Kalra has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
12 hours ago
Q. I am having pcod problem.
At which day should I take pregnancy test
Dr Priyanka Kalra
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
10 hours ago
A. after 2 weeks. do ultrasound n necessary tests after consulting a specialist. without proper check up we can't advise or help you.. Avoid shirt cuts when it comes to health if mother n baby. ok.
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
12 hours ago
Q. I am having pcod problem.
when should I take pregnancy test?
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
10 hours ago
A. after missed your periods you can wait for one week more ,then you can do a urine pregnancy test to know about the pregnancy result and consult with your doctor according to the result for medication
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
12 hours ago
Q. I am having pcod problem.
but having regular cycles below 35 days. some time it will extended upto 40 days.
so when should I take pregnancy test at home?
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
11 hours ago
A. If you have missed your periods you can wait for one week more or else you can do a urine pregnancy test to know about the pregnancy result and consult with your doctor according to the result for medication.
The best treatment to have Regular periods is by having a healthy lifestyle with regular daily walking or jogging along with mild exercise and meditation whenever possible. as medications will only act till you are taking them
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
9 hours ago
Q. Done my first routine blood test ..it shows thyroid border line.its my 6 week running as per USG.
but prior to that my thyroid level was always normal I did check up every year and got it normal .this time it shows borderline high in 6 week pregnancy.
is it something to worry.plz guide
Read moreDr Ghouse
Paediatrician
8 hours ago
A. it is better to follow your doctors advice for treating the thyroid deficiency. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts
Best activity toys for 15 month old baby
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
4 hours ago
A. Toys which have light and also sounds so that is going to be a good option for you to use apart from the different kids have different interest some kids like to play with cars some like to play with something else so just have to try to figure out what your child likes to eat just check what your child is more inclined towards
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. how to gain weight 32weeks
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
4 hours ago
A. You need to have a lot of good proteins and that is what is going to be helpful have a balanced diet and good have good amount of proteins as well which is what is going to be beneficial and good weight gain for your child as well
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