Despite the numerous different types of contraceptives available, unplanned pregnancies still occur in Anguilla, and many countries, at alarming rates. There are many factors contributing to this. It has been recognised that choosing the right contraceptive can prove challenging for many individuals.
Types of contraceptives
Contraception (birth control) prevents pregnancy by interfering with the normal process of ovulation, fertilisation, and implantation. There are different kinds of birth control that act at different points in the process.
A number of different types of contraceptives are available in Anguilla. These include the following:
• Combined birth control pill
• Patch
• Condoms (male and female)
• Injectable hormones also called the shot or injection
• Intrauterine device (IUD)
• Tubal ligation
• Vasectomy
• Natural family planning, also called fertility awareness and abstinence, is also practiced by many individuals to prevent pregnancy.
Individuals requiring more details on the various methods of contraceptive available are advised to talk with their family planning nurse, doctor or gynaecologist.
Withdrawal
Withdrawal is not recommended as a reliable and effective form of contraceptive, but many health professionals are aware that many individuals continue to use withdrawal as a form of contraceptive.
Withdrawal also known as “pulling out,” is an age-old method that relies on the man withdrawing his penis from the vagina before ejaculation. Newer reviews show that when it’s done correctly every time, about 4% of users get pregnant in a year. With more typical use, about 18% get pregnant.
Factors influencing type of contraceptive
Effectiveness
One of the main factors in deciding the type of contraceptive that is best for you is how effective it is. You should remember that only abstinence is 100% effective, but other methods come close.
Although barrier methods, such as the condom, are moderately effective with typical patterns of use, hormonal contraceptives have a better track record for effectiveness. The IUD is also very effective as well.
Talk to your healthcare provider or family planning nurse about the effectiveness of the various forms of contraceptives.
For sexually active individuals using any form of contraceptive is better than not using any at all. Without using any form of birth control, 85% of sexually active couples will get pregnant within a year.
Cost
The cost of various contraceptives vary from one method to the other. Your healthcare provider will be able to give you some advice on costs. Although the initial cost of some contraceptive might seem costly, in the long run they might prove more cost effective. The Intrauterine device might seem expensive but some types can last up to ten years making them cheaper in the long run.
Counselling and where you receive contraceptive advice
Studies have shown that effective counseling can influence the choice of contraceptive use. In fact, studies have shown that the number of individuals who receive family planning counselling are more likely to use a form of contraceptive than those who did not receive any form of contraceptive counselling.
Side effects
The vast majority of contraceptives available today are safe and have few side effects, but some do have side effects. If you start a new contraceptive and have side effects talk to your healthcare provider as soon as possible. Individuals with certain risks factors and medical disorders should also not use some types of contraceptives. If you have a medical disorder such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or a previous blood clot in your veins, you should first consult an experienced gynaecologist prior to using any form of contraceptive – especially a hormonal type.
Availability of contraceptives
Contraceptives are available at all the public health clinics in Anguilla, at the various pharmacies (with prescriptions), and from private gynaecologists on the island. Individuals are encouraged to have regular medical checkups to include a pelvic exam and Pap smear if they are on birth control methods.
Age and lifestyle
Age and lifestyle are important factors in choosing a form of birth control. If you are over age 35 and smoke or are obese, the combination birth control pill and patch is not recommended. It is best to consult your gynaecologist about safe alternatives. If you are approaching the age of menopause, the injectable contraceptive has an added benefit as it may relieve some of the symptoms of perimenopause.
Prevention of STDs
Some methods of contraceptives. such as condoms, can prevent some sexually transmitted diseases if used correctly. Others like the combined pill will prevent a pregnancy but does not prevent many of the prevalent sexually transmitted diseases. Talk to your healthcare provider if you want to choose a form of contraceptive that is highly effective in preventing pregnancy and also prevents sexually transmitted diseases.
Conclusion
With the wide variety of contraceptives available today some individuals still find it challenging to decide on the correct method to use to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Various factors might influence an individual, but effectiveness, cost and side effects play prominent roles. You and your healthcare provider will be able to decide on the best contraceptive for you. If you have any questions concerning contraceptives talk to your family planning nurse or gynaecologist today.
Ask Your Doctor is a health education column and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. The reader should consult his or her physician for specific information concerning specific medical conditions. While all reasonable efforts have been made to ensure that all information presented is accurate, as research and development in the medical field are ongoing, it is possible that new findings may supersede some data presented.
Dr Brett Hodge, MB, BS, DGO, MRCOG, is an Obstetrician/Gynaecologist and Family Doctor who has over thirty two years in clinical practice. Dr Hodge has a medical practice in The Johnson Building in The Valley (Tel: 264 4975828).
