Contraception is extremely important for the health of
women because unwanted pregnancy and abortion can endanger women’s health both
physically and emotionally. In addition, in order to enjoy a sexual
intercourse, you should be protected from possible sexually transmitted
infections especially when you practice sex with persons that you don’t know
much.
There are several types of contraceptives and people
often wonder which one is the best and most effective? In this article we will
pay attention to the most popular forms of contraception – condoms and
intrauterine devices. Although they don’t belong to a similar group of
contraceptives there are some similarities between them.
Condoms and intrauterine devices are very different
types of contraceptives. For example a condom is used only once and it is used
by the male partner. Modern condoms are made of polyurethane or latex and they
act in a mechanical way – they don’t allow sperms to enter the uterus and the
eggs.
When we talk about intrauterine devices we should
mention that there are two types of them – intrauterine device with copper wire
and uterine system with a hormone depot. Both types are placed in the uterus
cavity and they can be effective for around 5 years. The one with the copper
wire includes a plastic device with copper wire around it. This device prevents
sperm’s movement and makes the womb unsuitable for fertilization. The uterine
system includes a plastic insert in a form of a cylinder with hormones in it. This
system works in the same way like the one with a copper wire plus it releases
hormones that prevent pregnancy.
A condom is recommended for women regardless of their
age and the age of their partner. They are suitable for women that practice sex
often but also for women who have sexual intercourses occasionally.
Intrauterine devices and systems are recommended for women that already gave at
least one birth.
When it comes to successful protection, intrauterine
devices are a little bit better because they work in almost 99% of the cases.
However the percentage of condoms as successful contraceptives is also very
high (it is successful in 97% of the cases).
The condom is easy to use and it can be used only once.
The intrauterine devices must be carried al the time but in addition it is
beneficial for the menstrual period.
As far as side effects are concerned, condoms can cause
various allergic reactions and all you have to do is change the type of condom
that you use, while intrauterine devices can cause more problems in the form of
excessive bleeding during menstrual cycles (especially at the beginning) and in
rare cases women say that they experience frequent headaches, acne etc.
Besides protection from unwanted pregnancy condoms can
prevent the body from sexually transmitted diseases and even from AIDS.
Intrauterine devices don’t have that advantage.
Condoms can be used without consulting your doctor
while intrauterine devices require a visit to the gynecologist.
No matter what type of contraception you choose, make
sure that you follow the instructions and consult with your doctor if you
notice any unusual effects.
