Contraception Billings Method Using alternative contraception or abstinence

Contraception

Billings Method � Using alternative contraception or abstinence when a woman notices the presence of cervical mucus which indicated fertility.

Basal Body Temperature � Women determining ovulation based on body temperature based on the fact that there is a slight increase in body temperature during ovulation.

Female Condom � Prevents fertilization. Consists of a sheath that women insert in their vaginas to prevent sperm from reaching the uterus.

Male Condom � Used the same way as the female condom but the male covers the penis. Use of flexible condoms is the only way to prevent STDs

Diaphragm � Used to prevent spermatozoa from reaching the ovum. The membrane is inserted into the vagina over the cervix and can stay in the vagina for 24 hours then can be taken out, cleaned, and used again.

Spermicide � Chemical substance that kills spermatozoa. Used together with a diaphragm or condom, this method is effective for preventing fertilization.

Intrauterine Device (IUD) � Small device that is inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider. While spermatozoa can still reach the ovum, the IUD prevents the zygote from implanting in the uterus. This method is recommended for women who have already had children since it is more likely to cause infections in women who have never been pregnant.

Oral Contraception � The birth control pill is a chemical method of contraception. It contains female hormones that prevent ovulation and therefore the production of ova. � The pill must be taken every day at the same time to be effective.

Birth Control Patch � Chemical Method of contraception. Contains two female hormones that prevent the ovaries from releasing ova. A new patch must be applied every week.

Birth Control Ring �A ring is inserted in the vagina where it slowly releases hormones. The progesterone and estrogen released prevent ovulation. It is used on a cycle basis and is left in for 3 weeks at a time.

Contraceptive Injection � Chemical method of contraception. Contains a female hormone that prevents ovulation. Women are given one injection every 3 months.

Tubal Litigation � Surgical Procedure where fallopian tubes are tied to prevent fertilization but not ovulation. As a result, the ova produced are prevented from following their natural path in the fallopian tubes. The spermatozoa therefore cannot reach them. This procedure is usually irreversible.

Vasectomy � The surgical procedure for men involves cutting the vas deferense of each testicle to prevent spermatozoa from reaching the urethra. Men who undergo this procedure can still ejaculate, buttheir semen does not contain and spermatozoa.

What if something happens? � No method of contraception is 100% effective. � If a method fails it is important to see a medical professional as soon as possible. � It is important to be screened for STDs and take and precautions to prevent pregnancy

The “morning after” pill