METHODS OF BIRTH CONTROL

NATURAL METHOD
1. Withdrawal Method

• In this method the man is to withdraw his penis out of the vagina before ejaculation
• This is not a reliable method as sperms may leak out early during intercourse

2. Rhythm Method

• This involved abstaining oneself from sexual intercourse during the fertile period of the menstrual cycle (between day 11 to day 15 after the first day of menstruation)
• This method avoids fertilization. If intercourse is restricted to 'safe period' when ovum is not released, fertilization cannot occur
• This is an unreliable method because it depends on the regularity of the menstrual period of the women
  

CHEMICAL METHOD
1. Spermicide

• A spermicide is a chemical which kills sperms
• Its application in the vagina immobilizes and kills sperm cells
• Not very effective on its own. Effectiveness may be enhanced if used together with condoms, cervical caps and diaphragm
  

2. Hormonal method (Oral contraceptive pills)

• It contains a combination of synthetic hormones (progesterone and oestrogen)
  
• One pill must be taken a day for 21 consecutive days beginning on the 5th day of menstruation
  
• The hormones in the pills act to prevent the release of ovum from the ovary (ovulation)
• Very effective and safe if instructions are followed closely
  

MECHANICAL METHOD
1. Intrauterine Device (IUD)

• It is a small plastic or metal device placed in the uterus by a doctor
• It prevents implantation of the fertilized ovum
• Very effective and can be left in the uterus for 2 to 5 years depending on the type of IUD
  

2. Femidom and condom

• Both are made of thin sheath of rubber
• Condom - worn over penis during sexual intercourse
• Femidom - inserted into the vagina during sexual intercourse
• Both function in preventing sperms from entering the vagina during ejaculation
• Offers good protection when fitted correctly and consistently
  
• Both are very effective in preventing sexually transmitted diseases as they are impenetrable by bacteria or other disease causing organisms
  

3. Cervical Cap (and Diaphragm)

• It is placed in the vagina to cover the cervix
• It prevents sperms from entering the uterus, hence fertilization is not possible
  

SURGICAL METHOD
1. Vasectomy (male sterilization)

• The sperm ducts are cut and tied
• It prevents sperms from reaching the ovum and thus preventing fertilization
• Very effective long term birth control method but irreversible

2. Tubal Ligation (female sterilization)

• The oviducts are clipped or tied and cut
• It prevents the ovum from meeting with the sperms and thus preventing fertilization
• Very effective long term birth control method but irreversible