There are many different forms of preventing pregnancy and each one has different side-effects and different success rates. Some of the most popular methods are condoms, 'the pill', and an intra-uterine device.
condoms
The condom is the most widely recognised anti-contraceptive and STD/STI preventing device. A male condom is a cylindrical rubber device open at one end and closed at the other, which usually comes rolled up in a small package, abnd is primarily used to prevent unwanted pregnancies or STD’s and STI’s. The condom is most commonly used by the male, by putting it over his erect penis, however female condoms are also available. Female condoms are very similar, except the closed end is inserted into the vagina, with the open end facing out. Water based lubricant not only increases pleasure in sexual intercourse, it also can help prevent condoms from breaking and assists in avoiding vaginal or anal tearing. Also, the most commonly used, latex condoms become deficient if exposed to oil- based lubricant. The disadvantages of using condoms are that they can reduce the spontaeity and sensation of sex.
The pill
The pill is an oral contraceptive pill used to prevent pregnancy. There are two main types of the pill, the progesterone pill (mini-pill) which changes the mucus at the entrance to the uterus which stops semen from entering and fertilizing the egg and the combined pill which contains two hormones with stops the ovaries from releasing an egg each month. The combined pill is almost always effective in preventing pregnancy if taken correctly. The pill will make periods light, improve acne and help protect against cervical cancer. The pill must be taken every day at the same time to be effective, however different pills can have different intake methods. Smokers are encouraged not to use the pill and the pill offers no protection against STD's and STI's.
Intra-uterine device
The IUD is a form of contraceptive device that is placed in a women’s uterus. the progesterone or minera IUD which is a small T-Shaped device with a cylinder containing progesterone around its stem. The IUD affects the way sperm enter the uterus and travel in the uterus. The UID also changes the lining of the uterus so that it is not suitable for pregnancy and prevents and egg from developing. The IUD helps stop pregnancy over 8 years. The IUD may expel itself from the uterus during a period and the women must check that it is still there, the is a slight risk of pregnancy in the Fallopian tube.