Pregnancy Questions, Page 2

Birth Control

It used to be that the responsibility of birth control was left to our male counterparts. In today’s society however, things have changed. Women now have options and choices that, when utilized, ensure our health and the well being of our futures.

There are many products out today that are listed as being extremely effective. One of the most important things to think about when making your decision on a form of contraception is whether or not it is the "right" one for you.

With contraception devices come certain risks. We recommend that you speak with your physician or a representative from a Family Planning clinic before choosing your form of birth control.

There are three forms of more "permanent" contraception.

Norplant: Norplant implants are 6 matchstick size rods inserted into the upper arm. Norplant implants give off very small amounts of a hormone much like the progesterone a woman produces during the last 2 weeks of each monthly cycle. You may qualify for free Norplant implants from the Norplant Foundation. Call 703-706-5933 for more information. Depro Provara: Like the Pill, DEPO-PROVERA contains a hormone similar to your body’s own progesterone. However it does not contain estrogen. It’s given by injection-just 4 times a year-by your doctor, nurse, or health care provider. It can be given in the buttock or your upper arm, whichever you and your health care provider decide.

IUD: A T-shaped plastic device about 3.5 cm long which is placed into the uterine cavity to prevent pregnancy. Small doses of a particular substance are released into the uterus, blocking sperm from entering the Fallopian tubes and thus preventing fertilization. If fertilization were to occur, the IUD would prevent the fertilized egg from successfully implanting in the lining of the uterus. IUDs begin working immediately upon insertion and stop affecting fertility immediately upon removal. Only approved candidates can receive an IUD, speak with your doctor.

Oral Contraception: Commonly known as "The Pill" there are many different types and brands from which to choose. The process of ovulation is directed by hormones. Estrogen and progesterone are two hormones which direct many of the processes surrounding the menstrual cycle. Artificial analogues of these have proven an efficient form of birth control. To prevent pregnancy a woman takes a pill daily which contains both of these hormones. Many women also use the Pill to stabalize their cycles or for other non-contraceptive reasons. What is important to think about when getting on the pill is whether or not you will be able to remain faithful to taking it. Taking the Pill, or using any other form of birth control that does not protect against AIDS or Sexually Transmitted Disease means that you should always use a condemn as well.

There are Four types of Barrier Methods

Diaphragm: A soft rubber or latex cup that must be fitted for size by your doctor. Spermicide is applied to the diaphragm, which is inserted into the vagina; it covers the cervix and is held securely in place behind the pubic bone and rear wall of the vagina. If intercourse is repeated, contraceptive cream or jelly should be applied each time. This is inserted with a special applicator while the diaphragm is still in place.

Cervical cap: A smaller version of the diaphragm, made of slightly thicker rubber and fitted by your doctor. The cap, held in place by suction, is partially filled with contraceptive jelly or cream and then inserted so that it covers the cervix. If intercourse is repeated, it is not necessary to reapply spermicide, but you should check to make sure that the cap is still in place. The cervical cap is as effective as a diaphragm in women who have not had children, but the higher failure rates apply to women who have given birth.

Contraceptive sponge: A small, disposable sponge that already contains spermicide. The sponge should be moistened with water (not saliva) just before inserting, then placed over the cervix. Once in place, it provides protection for twenty-four hours, no matter how often you have intercourse.

Female condom: A thin polyurethane sheath with two soft rings at each end. One ring, covered with the polyurethane, fits over the cervix, acting as an anchor. The larger, open ring stays outside the vagina, covering part of the perineum and labia during intercourse. As female condoms are relatively new there is only one brand in production. These can be obtained at drug stores or through family planning clinics.

Issues about getting on birth control?

You’re not alone. It is reported in the 1999 Market Research for Crisis Pregnancy Centers that over 60% of women they polled chose not to obtain birth control due to the following reasons:

Fear of their parents finding out.
Cost of Doctor’s visit and contraception
Transportation to clinic
Fear of a Female Exam

Look at it this way: We’ve already faced one of the biggest fears of our present lives by having to tell our parent we were pregnant. The cost of our doctor’s visits and prenatal care skyrockets above a simple visit to Planned Parenthood and also - once you have given birth, it is recommended that you have an annual pap smear regardless of your age. So what do you have to lose?

Empower yourself. Take care of your body. You’re the only one who can.