Male and Female reproductive system april 9 2014 | Page 5
Contraceptives and how they work
There are different types of contraceptives for a specific situation and not all work for the same
results. The most appropriate contraceptive method depends on a woman’s overall health, age,
frequency of sexual activity, number of sexual partners, desire to have children in the future, and
family history of certain diseases. Some types carry out serious risks that may lead to future health
problems. The different types of contraception include:
Barrier methods: This method prevents sperm to enter the uterus. It is ideal for women who
cannot use hormonal methods of contraception. Male and female condoms are the ones used the
most. They have an 85% of effectiveness since the latex can break and sperm may spread out.
Diaphragms are flexible latex cups that are inserted into the woman’s vagina and has a jelly that kills
sperm. It should stay inside the vagina 6 to 7 hours after the intercourse. It has a 90% percent of
efficiency.
Hormonal methods: This method uses hormones to regulate or stop ovulation and prevent
pregnancy. There are many ways in which a woman can make use of this method like pills,
injections, and skin patches. The hormones thicken cervical mucus and prevent the sperm from
entering the uterus. Pills contain several hormones of synthetic estrogen and progestin that interfere
with ovulation. Pills are taken daily and they have almost an efficiency of 100%. Injections contain
progestin and are given every three months. They may have side effects like loss of bone density
that´s why it is recommended to have a diet high in calcium and vitamin D to regain bone. LH and
FSH aren´t released so follicles will not mature. It has a 99% of efficiency. Skin patches release
hormones through the skin into the bloodstream. A new patch is applied every 3 weeks to allow the
fourth for menstruation. It does not interfere with sex but has side effects like headaches and mood
changes. It has an efficiency of 90%.
Emergency contraception: These contraceptive pills are taken within 12 hours apart in case
of having an unprotected intercourse. They interfere with ovulation and prevent the sperm from
activating thick