Family Doctor 2007 - (Page 155) women CONTRACEPTION Birth control: An update on newer options Nowadays a plethora of birth control methods are available to women, but the number of options can make it confusing. Here’s a round-up of the contraceptive choices. Discuss with your family doctor which is right for you. By Sarah D. Garber polyurethane foam that contains the spermicide nonoxynol-9. The sponge is inserted into the vagina up to 24 hours before intercourse and is left in place for at least 6 hours afterwards. It shouldn’t be worn for more than 30 hours in a row. ● The shield (Lea’s Shield) is a silicone cup and DID YOU KNOW? Women who use hormone birth control methods should not smoke. Smoking increases the risk for serious side effects such as blood clots, heart attack and stroke. air valve that fits over the cervix. It must be left in place for at least 8 hours after intercourse and T hanks to medical and technological advances, women can choose from a wide array of contraceptive methods. If you’re considering birth control options, talk with your shouldn’t be worn for more than 48 hours. Your doctor must prescribe this product. family doctor about the pros and cons of each. The type of birth control you choose will depend on your needs and what you’ll feel comfortable using correctly every time. Most people already know about birth control methods such as condoms and the pill. In the past few years, new options have become available. Also, hormone implants (Norplant System) have been taken off the market in the United States. If you’re currently using implants, your doctor can help you choose another form of birth control once your implants expire. “If you’re considering birth control options, talk with your family doctor about the pros and cons of each.” ● A new type of cervical cap (FemCap) is available with a doctor’s prescription. It’s a silicone cup shaped like a sailor’s New birth control options Barrier methods prevent pregnancy by blocking sperm from entering the uterus. Some barrier methods are used with spermicide (a substance that kills sperm) for extra protection. ● The sponge (TodaySponge) has recently been reintroduced cap that fits over the cervix. FemCap requires less spermicide than a traditional cervical cap and can be left in place for up to 48 hours. Hormone methods, such as the pill, work by using the female hormones estrogen and/or progestin to prevent ovulation (the release of an egg by the ovaries). They are only available with a doctor’s prescription. ● The continuous-use pill (Lybrel) is taken every day and in the United States and is available over-the-counter (without a doctor’s prescription). It’s a soft, round device made of HEALTH tip Talk to your doctor before using a spermicide that contains nonoxynol-9. Nonoxynol-9 can cause genital irritation and increase your risk of catching an STI. stops your periods until you stop taking the pill. Studies have shown that using this pill to stop your periods is as safe and effective as using regular birth control pills. Most women experience irregular or “breakthrough” bleeding while taking this pill. Because it stops your period, take a pregnancy test or talk to your doctor if you think you might be pregnant. ● The extended-cycle pills (Seasonale and Seasonique) are similar to regular birth control pills, but they reduce your periods from once a month to about once every 3 months. You take familydoctor 2007 155
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