There are many contraception methods used to prevent unwanted pregnancies. These methods can be surgical or take the form of oral medications or injections administered into the muscle.

Each method has its own effectiveness rate and side effects, as well as advantages and disadvantages.

Contraception with IUD (Intrauterine Device)

Commonly known as the coil, intrauterine devices are a type of plastic device inserted into the uterus. This device is about 4 centimeters in size and has small arms that open inside. There are hormone-releasing and copper types of IUDs, which greatly reduce the chance of pregnancy.

Non-hormonal IUDs do not harm the breasts but may increase menstrual bleeding. This can lead to easier growth of microorganisms nourished by blood and an increase in recurring infections. Hormonal IUDs reduce bleeding and therefore lower the risk of infections accordingly.

Copper IUDs provide protection for about 10 years, with a pregnancy chance of nearly 1%. Hormonal IUDs last about 5 years. Their mechanism involves releasing hormones that thicken cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to enter.

Contraception by Tubal Ligation

Tubal ligation is a surgical procedure where the tubes carrying eggs in women are tied. It is mostly performed laparoscopically, a minimally invasive procedure lasting about half an hour. Sometimes, a small incision is made next to the navel, and the tubes are located, cut, tied, and the incision is closed.

The procedure can be done openly or laparoscopically under general anesthesia. This method is nearly 100% effective and has no side effects. The ideal timing for the operation is just after the menstrual period.

It does not affect a woman's sexual desire, hormonal balance, or body structure. However, since reversing this procedure is difficult and the chance of a healthy pregnancy after reversal is low, it is recommended for women who have decided to end their fertility.

Contraception with Birth Control Pills

Birth control pills prevent ovulation by regulating the hormonal balance properly. With this hormonal regulation, the egg that sperm could fertilize does not develop, thus pregnancy does not occur.

Pills are one of the most frequently preferred contraception methods and provide nearly 99% protection when taken regularly.

The pills are used for 21 days, starting on the first day of the menstrual cycle, and taken regularly for 21 days. After finishing the pills, there is a 7-day break before starting again.

Contraception with Birth Control Patch

Birth control patches that affect hormones are skin-colored bands about 3 to 4 centimeters in size. These patches act on the ovaries and highly protect against pregnancy.

Similarly, patches used at the beginning of the menstrual period can be applied outside the breast; on the arm, leg, abdomen, or back. One box contains 3 patches. The patches are changed weekly and, after a 7-day break, are used again.

Contraception with Injection

The contraceptive injection is popular among those who do not prefer other methods or forget to take pills. It is favored because it is easy to use and offers long-lasting protection.

Containing estrogen and progesterone hormones, this method prevents ovulation and thickens the fluid inside the uterus, making it harder for sperm to enter. This method also has a very high protection rate, with a pregnancy chance of about 1%.

The injections are given monthly or every three months and are administered intramuscularly. Rarely, it may cause decreased sexual desire or breast tenderness.

Contraception with Implants

Implants contain hormone medications that affect the ovaries and protect a woman from pregnancy for about 3 years. The progesterone hormone in the implant thickens the mucus in the cervix, preventing sperm passage. It also thins the lining inside the uterus, reducing the chance of implantation of a fertilized egg.

This method is also applied during the menstrual period. The implant is placed under the skin on the upper arm through a minor surgical procedure. The most common complaint is irregular menstruation.