Question

Write a 2 page double spaced essay explaining to me which 3 forms of contraception would be a good option for your, use details from the book to justify your answer and which 3 forms of contraception would be the worse option for you, use details from the chapter in your answer. For male students, you do not have many options within your control. So for this assignment think about which options you would want your female partner to use or not use. Format: 2 full pages or more, 1" margins, TNR font. Put the title at the top of the page and begin typing your essay.

Answer 1

Contraception – Good and Bad

Unintended pregnancy is a major women’s health problem. In the United States, the unintended pregnancy rate was 45% in 2011 as compared with 51% in 2008. Although the rate has declined, it is still unacceptably high given the plethora of safe and effective methods of contraception. The consequences of unscheduled pregnancies include delayed prenatal care; early pregnancy exposure to smoking, drinking, or substance abuse; low birth weight; and decreased chances of breastfeeding after delivery.

Three good forms of Contraception are:

1. IUDs and Implants

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) and implants are known as long-acting, reversible contraceptives. Doctors often prescribe them first. Why? You don't have to think about them in the heat of the moment or remember to take a pill every day. And they work extremely well at preventing pregnancies. Less than 1 in every 100 females with an IUD or birth control implant will get pregnant during a year.

2. Diaphragms and Other Barrier Methods Are Hormone-Free

The diaphragm is a flexible cup that you place in your body to block sperm from entering your uterus. It's most effective when used with spermicide.

You will have to be fitted for a diaphragm by your doctor, and it's a good idea to replace it after a year. You'll have to examine it occasionally, as well, to make sure there are no holes, tears, or thinning of the latex. If you've recently gained or lost weight, you’ll also want to have it checked for fit.

The cervical cap is similar to the diaphragm. You'll have to be fitted for one by a healthcare professional, and it's best to use it with spermicide. You place it in your vagina, where it keeps sperm from entering the cervix. It should also be replaced yearly.

The sponge is soft foam coated with spermicide. The device looks like a donut, and covers the cervix when you insert it into your vagina.

3. Birth Control Pills Do More Than Prevent Pregnancy

There are a slew of birth control pills for women to choose from, including ones that use only progestin or a combination of estrogen and progestin. If you pop the pill flawlessly, the failure rate can be as low as 1 percent. Combination birth control pills can also lead to less painful menstrual cramps, lighter periods, and fewer symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.

The pill may also provide protection against pelvic inflammatory disease, endometrial cancer, and ovarian cancer. Progestin-only pills (known as "minipills") are safer for women who have a history of blood clots or have uncontrolled high blood pressure. Both types of contraception help regulate your periods, as well.

Three worst forms of Contraception are:

1. The Patch and the Ring Free You From Pills

The patch can cause skin reactions in some women. And like the pill, both the patch and the ring can cause side effects, such as spotting, headaches, bloating, and breast tenderness. You shouldn’t use them if you’re predisposed to blood clots, have uncontrolled high blood pressure, or get migraines with aura. The ring has additional possible side effects of vaginal discharge or irritation.

2. Hormone Shots

You’ll have to go to your doctor to get the shot, and the shots tend to cause more irregular bleeding than the pill, patch, or ring, particularly during the first three to six months, Newmann says. Also, prolonged use can lower your bone density, so you should get a bone density test if you use this contraception method for five years continuously. Bone loss is reversible once you stop using the hormone medication. If you plan to become pregnant in the future, you’ll have to plan ahead if you’re using hormone shots. It can take an average of 10 months to conceive after stopping them.

3. Tubal ligation

Tubal ligation is also known as female sterilization, or having your “tubes tied.” It involves closing the fallopian tubes to prevent a woman’s eggs from being fertilized and pregnancy from developing. The operation involves anesthesia, and as surgery, has some associated risks: reactions to the anesthesia, damage to your bladder or bowel, and pelvic pain afterwards, notes the Mayo Clinic. This birth control method is permanent, so you should be sure you don’t want more children before opting for this procedure. Like a vasectomy, reversing sterilization is expensive and not guaranteed.