TEMPORARY CONTRACEPTIVE METHODS: TYPES AND CHARACTERISTICS - GEOGRAFÍA - 2024

The temporary methods are all those existing techniques to prevent pregnancy to occur having a reversible; that is to say, by simply stopping its use, the woman can become pregnant.

A large percentage of married women or couples of reproductive age around the world use some contraceptive method, although it depends on the countries, with the percentage falling in less developed places.

On the other hand, reversible contraceptive methods are more common in Africa and Europe, while permanent ones are used more in Asia and North America. There are several ways to achieve this, with most methods being female-centered.

Reversible contraceptives are usually classified according to their characteristics, such as hormonal ones, where we find the pill or the patch; those of barrier, that includes the condom; behavioral techniques such as reversing, or natural-type methods, that is, based on the observation of the hormonal cycles of women.

Some contraceptive methods for men are also currently being investigated, which we will describe later.

Temporary chemical or mechanical contraceptive methods

-Injectable hormones

It is an injection of progestin, which causes the mucus in the cervix to thicken, preventing the sperm from fertilizing the egg. The lining of the uterus also thins and, in some, prevents the release of an egg.

It is placed in the arm or buttock every 3 months, although there are different durations (12, 13 weeks).

Advantages: this method is more than 99% effective and is useful for women who cannot take the contraceptive pill or often forget (since it must be taken every day). Also, it has no interactions with medication. Another advantage is that it reduces the probability of uterine cancer and pelvic inflammatory disease.

Disadvantages: It can lead to side effects in some people such as weight gain, headaches, changes in mood, breast tenderness, and irregular or no bleeding. On the other hand, the normal fertility level does not return until about a year has passed since the last injection.

It can also cause a temporary decrease in bone density (especially in young people), which coincides while undergoing treatment and disappears when it is stopped.

This method must be combined with a diet rich in vitamin D and calcium, so it is recommended to take vitamin supplements in the meantime.

-Patches

It consists of a thin adhesive patch, which measures 5x5cm and releases hormones into the bloodstream through the skin. It is usually placed on the buttocks, lower abdomen, outer arm, or upper body.

The hormones it contains are the same as those present in the pill, so it works in the same way: preventing ovulation, thinning the uterine lining and thickening the cervical mucus, which makes pregnancy practically impossible.

The patches are applied for 3 weeks once a week, leaving a week off for menstruation to come.

Advantages: If used properly, it can be more than 99% effective. The good news is that you do not have to be vigilant every day as with the pill, and that it continues to act even if vomiting or diarrhea occurs. In addition, it can be used without problems in the pool, in the shower and doing sports.

Like all hormonal methods, this one can also be used to stop heavy periods. Another positive aspect is that it helps protect women from ovarian, uterine and colon cancer.

Disadvantages: in some people may appear increased blood pressure, headaches, development of blood clots. It seems not suitable for women who smoke, are over 35 years old or who weigh more than 90 kg. On the other hand, it should be noted that it does not help protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

-Pills

The pill or combined oral contraceptives are drugs with different synthetic combinations of female hormones: estrogens and progesterone. The type of drug is adapted to the needs of each woman after the doctor has done the required tests.

These hormones simply prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs (a process known as ovulation, which is the ideal time for a woman to get pregnant). The pill should be taken every day, preferably at the same time, for 21 days and then a week off for the period to arrive.

There are also progestin-only pills, which do not appear to be associated with the risk of developing blood clots.

There are now a few new combination pills that are taken every day for 12 weeks, but with a menstruation frequency of once every 3 months, instead of once a month. This can also be done with conventional pills, taking the pills for three months without stopping, indicating that there are no known harmful effects of this practice.

Advantages: can be used to prevent pregnancy, to treat painful or heavy periods, premenstrual syndrome, endometriosis, etc. This method is more than 99% effective.

Disadvantages: many women are forgetful and this method requires daily perseverance so that it does not lose its effect. Another disadvantage is that it loses its effect if you have vomiting or diarrhea that day.

On the other hand, there can be side effects such as mood swings, tender breasts or headaches, even blood clots or cervical cancer, but this is very rare. In addition, it does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

-Subdermic implant

It is an implant of a small flexible rod, about 40mm long, which is placed just under the skin in the upper arm. It must be inserted by a professional, and its effect can last up to 3 years.

The implant works by gradually releasing progestin into the bloodstream, which, as we have seen, thickens the cervical mucus and thins the lining of the uterus, preventing pregnancy.

Advantages: it is easy to insert and remove, and if placed correctly it can be more than 99% effective. It benefits those women who are sure that they do not want to be mothers for a long time or those who have difficulty taking the pill every day.

If there are side effects, the positive is that it can be withdrawn and return to the previous degree of fertility quickly.

Disadvantages: menstruation can be irregular or even stop, and it may take a year to stabilize. On the other hand, there are medications that can make it less effective.

-Male condom

It is the most widely used barrier method of contraception. It consists of a thin latex or polyurethane sheath that is placed on the penis when it is erect, before intercourse. It works by enclosing the semen and preventing it from entering the interior of the woman. They have to be thrown away after each use. Some come with spermicide to further decrease the chance of pregnancy.

Advantages: unlike other methods, the condom stands out for reducing the risk of contagion of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Therefore it is also suitable for oral or anal sex. Its effectiveness is 98%, they are very easy to obtain and, unlike hormones, they are not very invasive for the body and have no side effects.

Disadvantages: there are men who are uncomfortable with the use of this method because they feel that they lose sensitivity. This is something that can be fixed by trying other brands or sizes.

On the other hand, it is not compatible with some lubricants, creams or lotions; they can slip during sex, they have to be stored properly so they don't get damaged, and you have to watch the expiration date.

In addition, there are some people who are sensitive to latex who may not tolerate this type of condom, but others made of different materials can be used.

-Female condom

They are similar to the male ones, but wider. It consists of a thin, flexible and soft plastic bag that is inserted inside the vagina before sexual intercourse to prevent semen from reaching the uterus and reduce the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases.

It covers the entire vagina and protrudes out of it with an opening where the penis should be inserted. As with male condoms, female condoms are for single use only.

Advantages: they are 95% effective if used properly, protects against STDs.

Disadvantages: to name a few, it requires storing them in places that are neither very hot nor very cold and away from sharp objects. On the other hand, being a barrier that covers the entire vagina, it can lead to loss of sensitivity in this area when it is used.

-Cervical caps

It is a small and thin circular dome made of silicone that is inserted into the vagina, covering the cervix. It must be placed before penetration to prevent the sperm from advancing inside the woman. The doctor will determine which is the appropriate cap for each woman, since it can have different sizes.

This method must be accompanied by the use of spermicides to reduce the probability of pregnancy, and must remain in the vagina after sexual intercourse, for about 6 to 8 hours.

However, it must be removed before 48 hours and proceed to proper cleaning. They are similar to the diaphragm, but smaller, stiffer, and less noticeable.

Advantages: it does not cause secondary symptoms or the danger that the administration of hormones may have for women, in addition, using it with spermicide has an effectiveness of approximately 92-96%. If you take good care of it, it can last 2 years since they are reusable during this period.

Disadvantages: you have to learn to place it, being somewhat tedious for some women who do not know their body well. When you gain or lose a lot of weight, or after having a baby, the cap may need to be changed for a different size. It does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

-Diaphragm

It is a flexible latex or soft rubber cup that is inserted into the vagina (not very deeply) before intercourse and prevents semen from reaching the uterus as a barrier. Like caps, the diaphragm must be used in conjunction with a spermicide.

Like the previous one, it must also remain in place for 6 to 8 hours after sexual intercourse, and must be removed and washed within 24 hours. To be effective, the doctor will determine the correct size that each woman needs. It is a reusable method that only needs to be replaced after 1 or 2 years.

Advantages: does not contain hormones for women, is reusable and durable, has between 92-96% efficiency, and does not endanger the health of women.

Disadvantages: must be inserted and removed after each sexual intercourse, and may have to be changed after pregnancy or weight loss or gain.

-DIU

It is a small device in the shape of a "T" that can be made of copper or plastic, and that is inserted into the uterus with the help of a professional.

It works by releasing a very small amount of copper into the uterus, which prevents the fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus or simply stopping the advance of sperm. There is another type that releases progesterone little by little, called the Intrauterine System or IUS.

According to UW Heath, this method is becoming more and more widespread as it is the most effective in controlling the birth rate in a reversible way (more than 99%). They are currently safe and can be effective in the very long term (5 to 10 years).

There are different types and sizes. For example, those that contain more copper are those that are more effective in protecting women against pregnancy.

Advantages: it is highly effective, it does not require being attentive to it every day or every time you have intercourse, since it is placed once and its action can last a long time. In addition, they already take effect from the first moment it is introduced. As soon as it is withdrawn, it also quickly returns to normal fertility levels.

Disadvantages: it can cause discomfort in some women, changes in menstruation in the first 3 to 6 months, being normal to bleed between periods. There is also a certain probability of contracting infections in the first 20 days after its installation or that the body rejects it.

-Vaginal ring

It is a barrier method but it contains hormones, specifically synthetic estrogen (ethinyl estradiol) and progestin that prevent the release of the egg.

It consists of a small, thin and flexible ring that is inserted into the vagina and releases hormones for 3 weeks. At 4 weeks it is removed for menstruation and then, at 7 days, a new one is reintroduced.

Advantages: It is 99% effective, does not require being attentive to it every day or before each sexual intercourse, and it can alleviate premenstrual symptoms and period discomfort and pain.

Disadvantages: similar to birth control pills, so they are not recommended for women with blood clot problems, stroke, or some cancers. It can cause side effects in some people such as headaches, changes in vaginal discharge or breast tenderness. Sometimes the ring can accidentally slip out of the vagina, although it can be washed and repositioned without problems.

-Spermicides

It is a substance that has the function of destroying sperm. The most common agent is a chemical called nonoxynol-9 (N-9) and it can be used alone or in conjunction with another method to make it more effective.

It can be found in different formats, such as foam, gel, creams or suppositories; and it must be inserted deep into the vagina and intercourse begins within 30 minutes.

Advantages: it is a minimally invasive method for the body if we compare it with hormones, and it has a short-term effect.

Disadvantages: it can be ineffective on its own and can cause allergies or vaginitis.

-Sponge with spermicide

It consists of a small disposable sponge filled with spermicide that is inserted into the vagina before each sexual intercourse.

It works in such a way that the sponge blocks the entry of sperm into the vagina, ensuring the death of sperm through spermicide. The sponge must remain at least 6 hours without being removed, and then it has to be removed within 30 hours.

Advantages: It does not have any problems for women's health or the secondary symptoms that hormones can cause.

Disadvantages: it must be inserted and removed with each use, it can cause vaginal irritation and it may be necessary to use a lubricant during sex.

Natural methods

They have the advantage that, if done correctly and combined with several natural methods, it can be 99% effective. If it is not carried out according to the instructions and small mistakes are made, the probability can be reduced to 75%. Also, they have no effect on the body and it is completely natural.

The woman must keep a strict daily record of her fertility signs such as the shape of her fluids, her temperature or the days of the month. Approximately, it may take 3 to 6 months (or menstrual cycles) to learn the methods well. This learning is usually carried out by a healthcare professional.

However, it is important to know that fertility signals can be altered by some factors such as diseases, changes in the environment or routine or stressful periods.

-Calendar method

In this method, hormonal cycles are attended to to find the days of the month when one is more or less fertile, taking advantage of the days of low infertility to practice sexual intercourse.

The menstrual cycle lasts from the first day of menstruation until the day before the next period, normally being approximately 28 days.

About the middle of the menstrual cycle, ovulation occurs, which is the period of maximum fertility. At this time, a woman could easily get pregnant, considering that sperm can live inside a woman's body for up to 7 days.

It is not recommended that this method be used alone to prevent pregnancy, but must be combined with the other two below.

-Basal body temperature method

It is based on the idea that there is a small increase in body temperature during periods of infertility. For this, a thermometer specially designed for this method must be used, since the temperature change is very small and these thermometers are more accurate. They can be found in pharmacies.

The procedure consists of taking the temperature every morning just after getting out of bed, before eating or drinking anything, also being more accurate if it is always done at the same time.

If 3 days elapse in which the temperature is higher than the previous 6 days, it is likely that you can already have sex without danger of pregnancy.

-Cervical mucus method

Another sign is that there are changes in the amount and consistency of mucus released by the cervix at different times in the menstrual cycle. To check, the middle finger can be slightly inserted into the vagina and the discharge examined.

The first few days after your period, the vagina is drier and mucus is barely noticeable.

However, as ovulation approaches, the level of hormones rises and the discharge produced is usually stickier and whitish at first; to later become more humid, transparent and slippery, indicating the maximum level of fertility.

When this stage has passed and the mucus becomes thicker and stickier again, it would indicate that the non-fertile period is coming.

To better control this, fertility charts including web applications can be used to record the combined information of the three methods.

-Withdrawal

Or reverse, which consists of placing the penis outside the vagina before ejaculation occurs. This method can be dangerous since not only are sperm in the semen during ejaculation, but they can also be in the precum released by the man before ejaculation.

Higgings & Wang (2015) evaluated 3,517 sexually active young people, ages 15 to 24, an age at which they are at risk for an unwanted pregnancy. They found that 14% of women and 17% of men indicated that they used this method at some time, while 7% and 6% respectively, said they only used reverse gear.

In addition, young people who used this method also had more positive attitudes towards pregnancy than others, or they thought that condoms reduced sexual pleasure.

-Lactational amenorrhea method (LAM)

This method is used in the first 6 months after giving birth, when women are in a period of amenorrhea or absence of menstruation that occurs naturally during breastfeeding. At this time, the woman is infertile, but will be infertile again when that period ends.

In addition, it is much more effective if the woman is controlling her fertility thanks to the methods that we previously indicated.

References

1. Birth Control. (sf). Retrieved on July 15, 2016, from plannedparenthood.org.
2. Birth control methods fact sheet. (sf). Retrieved on July 15, 2016, from Women's Health, US
3. Contraception guide. (sf). Retrieved on July 15, 2016, from NHS choices.
4. Higgins, JA, & Wang, Y. (2015). Original research article: Which young adults are most likely to use withdrawal? The importance of pregnancy attitudes and sexual pleasure. Contraception, 91320-327.
5. Nations, U. (2015). Trends in Contraceptive Use Worldwide. Obtained from The Department of Economic and Social Affairs.
6. Temporary Contraception Options. (sf). Retrieved on July 15, 2016, from UW Health.
7. What are the different types of contraception? (April 3,2013). Obtained from National Institutes of Child Health and Human Development.