Contraception

Unlike many years ago there are many types of birth control options offered today. They range from ones that need to be prescribed by a health care provider to condoms that can be purchased over the counter. To get the best type of method one should talk to their health care provider about the options of contraception. Most of the methods of contraception offered today are highly effective and easy to use. This paper discusses five methods out of the many options provided: Depo-Provera, Ortho-Evra, the Pill, Ortho-Novum, and condoms.

The first method discussed is Depo. It is an injectable form of contraception that protects against pregnancy for three months, giving a long lasting form of contraception. The shot is given intramuscularly either in the buttocks or the upper arm. Its main active ingredient is a chemical similar to the hormone progesterone. Depo acts by preventing the egg cells from ripening. If an egg is not released from the ovaries during the menstrual cycle, it cannot become fertilized by sperm and result in pregnancy. (Health Information for Women) It also causes changes in the lining of the uterus that makes it less likely for pregnancy to occur. During the first year one may have changes in the menstrual bleeding pattern. One may notice: Irregular or unpredictable bleeding or spotting, menstrual bleeding that is slightly heavier or lighter than normal or no menstrual bleeding at all. It is important to note that any unusually heavy or continuous bleeding should be reported to one's health care provider. (Health Information for Woman) More than half of all women who use Depo for one year have no menstrual bleeding. Once off the shot the woman's period will usually, in time, return to its normal pattern. Some women may gain a few pounds while on the shot during the first year. After the first year, weight gain depends on the individual person. Also in some women, Depo may cause some thinning of the bones during the first few years used. Other side effects that may occur include: headache, tiredness, breast swelling or tenderness, nervousness, dizziness, upset stomach, depression, decreased sex drive. (Health Information for Women) Many women who experience side effects during the first few months report that these side effects decrease. Women who used hormone-based contraceptives