Hormonal Methods

In women, contraception usually focuses on the hormonal methods of birth control. With this type, women have full control on their hormonal intake and not depend on the male partner for contraception. This is also a good backup for other birth control methods that could fail during the sexual act. Hormonal methods have a 100% effectiveness rate in terms of controlling the fertilization of the female egg. There are many types and variations of hormonal methods, but they similarly function the same way. The pill, patch and injectables contain hormones that stop the ovulation of the female egg. Although it is very effective in contraception, it does not prevent the possibility of sexually transmitted disease spread. Also, with hormonal methods, you need to be consistent in taking the hormone, such as daily for the pill, weekly for the patch and every 3 months for the injectables. Should a day, week or month be missed, the effectiveness of the contraception decreases.

Pregnancy Favs

Studies have shown that hormonal methods of contraception do not cause cancer. In fact, some variants of these methods can prevent ovarian and cervical cancer. First-time users should, however, know that there are side effects in taking these hormones. Headaches, dizziness, nausea, irregular monthly periods, weight gain, breast tenderness, mood changes and development of blood clots are just a few of the common complaints when taking hormones. The combined varieties of hormones should not be used among pregnant women, lactating women, and women with blood clotting problems. You should get advice from your doctor before you proceed with hormonal methods. If your prescribed hormone gives you many side effects, your doctor can give you another brand that may give you lesser side effects. All in all, hormonal contraception is safer than most people think. The diligence to monitor and take them should be mastered.