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  • Today’s modern methods of contraception – which one to choose?

    Today’s modern methods of contraception – which one to choose?

    Contraception has come a long way since the days of the earliest forms of birth control, such as the use of herbs and animal bladders. Today, there are a wide range of contraceptive options available to individuals, including hormonal methods, barrier methods, and intrauterine devices (IUDs). In recent years, there have been several exciting developments in contraceptive technology that have expanded the options available to people who want to prevent pregnancy. Here are some of the latest developments in contraceptive technology:

    1. Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs): LARCs are contraceptive methods that are highly effective and require very little maintenance. They include intrauterine devices (IUDs) and contraceptive implants, both of which are inserted into the body and can prevent pregnancy for several years. LARCs have become increasingly popular in recent years, as they are highly effective and do not require daily or weekly attention like other forms of birth control.
    2. Hormonal IUDs: Hormonal IUDs are a type of LARC that release a low dose of hormone directly into the uterus. These devices can prevent pregnancy for up to five years and are highly effective. In addition to preventing pregnancy, hormonal IUDs can also help to reduce menstrual bleeding and cramping.
    3. Non-hormonal IUDs: In addition to hormonal IUDs, there are also non-hormonal IUDs available. These devices are made of copper, which is toxic to sperm and prevents fertilization. Non-hormonal IUDs can prevent pregnancy for up to 10 years and do not have any hormonal side effects.
    4. Contraceptive injections: Injectable contraceptives, such as Depo-Provera, are a highly effective form of birth control that require only one injection every three months. These injections work by preventing ovulation and thickening cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg. Injectable contraceptives are easy to use and do not require daily attention like other forms of birth control.
    5. Male birth control pill: Researchers have been working on developing a male birth control pill for several years, and there have been some promising developments in recent years. A male birth control pill would work by suppressing sperm production, and could be taken daily or weekly. While there are still some challenges to be overcome in the development of a male birth control pill, it is an exciting area of research that could provide a new option for men who want to take control of their reproductive health.
    6. Fertility awareness-based methods: Fertility awareness-based methods (FABMs) involve tracking a woman’s menstrual cycle and using that information to identify when she is fertile and when she is not. While FABMs have been around for decades, recent advances in technology have made them more effective and user-friendly. There are now several apps and devices available that can help women track their cycles and predict ovulation, making FABMs a more viable option for many women.

    In conclusion, there have been several exciting developments in contraceptive technology in recent years, expanding the range of options available to individuals who want to prevent pregnancy. Whether you prefer a long-acting, low-maintenance method like an IUD or contraceptive implant, or a method that requires more active management like a daily pill or fertility awareness-based method, there is a contraceptive option that can meet your needs. It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about your options and choose a method that is right for you.

  • Contraception for life – permanent birth control

    Contraception for life – permanent birth control

    As we mentioned at the beginning of this series of articles, it is perfectly normal in today’s society not to want children. Also, some families that already have children often decide that they don’t want another one. In these cases, contraception for life (sterilization) may be helpful.

    Contraception for life. permanent birth control. Vasectomy, tubal ligation, sterilization. Sekss.lv

    Vasectomy

    It is an operation in which the small tubes in your scrotum that carry sperm are cut or blocked off, preventing the semen from entering your penis. As you read about the contraceptive methods mentioned before, you may have noticed that most of them are for women. If you don’t want children or are already happy with your current family number, a vasectomy can be a great way to enjoy carefree sex. In addition, your beloved woman will no longer need to take hormonal contraceptives or put in IUDs.

    Do you think that your thoughts could change in the future? It’s not worth worrying about – you can have a reverse vasectomy at any time – so this procedure doesn’t mean you’ll never ever have children. It is worth noting that this method must be tested and confirmed that the semen does not enter the genitals, so other methods of contraception will have to be used for the first three months after the operation.

    Tubal ligation

    Tubal ligation is a surgical procedure used as birth control for women. During this procedure, the fallopian tubes are tied, clamped, cut, banded or sealed closed. This prevents an egg from moving from the ovary through the fallopian tube where it could meet sperm, and it prevents sperm from traveling up the tube to meet the egg, preventing pregnancy.

    This procedure can cost more than a vasectomy – even more than 1,000 euros. However, before inquiring about this method of protection, it is important to know that you will never have children again after this operation.

    Tubal ligation does not affect woman’s sexuality, hormonal activity, or menstrual cycle. The ovaries continue to function, the eggs mature, and there are periods every month.

  • Long-term contraception that will last for at least 3 years

    Long-term contraception that will last for at least 3 years

    You don’t like to plan everything, or maybe you’re afraid of getting pregnant? Then you will enjoy long-term contraception. Contrary to the contraceptive methods mentioned in the previous article, which must be used according to a certain schedule, with these methods you will be able to completely forget about protection for at least 3-10 years.

    Long-term contraception that will last for at least 3 years. Implant, copper IUC, hormonal IUC. Sekss.lv

    Contraceptive implant

    It is a small, flexible plastic rod implanted under the skin. Such an implant releases the hormone progestin, which blocks ovulation and therefore pregnancy. Efficiency over 99%! An implant costs an average of 60 to 300 euros, but implantation can cost extra. The effect lasts up to 3 or 5 years and can be removed at any time. This implant does not contain estrogen, so it is a good choice for people who want to avoid this hormone. However, there are some downsides: Implantation requires local anesthesia, and some women may experience minor side effects: acne, breast tenderness, and weight gain.

    Long-term contraception that will last at least 3 years. Implants Sekss.lv

    Copper IUD

    An IUD (intrauterine device) is a small T-shaped plastic and copper device that’s put into your womb (uterus) by a doctor or nurse. In addition to the variant made of copper, there are also hormonal IUDs. The copper IUD creates an unfavorable environment for sperm in the uterine cavity, thus preventing sperm from reaching the egg and, if the egg is fertilized, preventing it from starting to develop.

    It does not affect the menstrual cycle, but sometimes menstruation can become stronger or more painful. Copper IUD is extremely effective – it protects against unwanted pregnancies in more than 99 percent of cases! Their price is not high compared to hormonal IUDs. It can last up to 10 years and can be removed at any time.

    Hormonal IUD

    It is also placed in a woman’s body in a gynecologist’s office. This device releases a small amount of progestin and thus inhibits ovulation, making pregnancy virtually impossible for 3-12 years. However, it is important to mention that with prolonged use of the hormonal IUD, menstruations may disappear for some time.

    Inserting the IUD in a young woman carries a slightly higher risk of injury to the uterus, as well as a slightly higher risk of the IUD slipping out. It is also very important to make sure that a woman does not have any sexually transmitted infection before inserting the IUD. You must remember that even if there are no complaints, the infection can still be in the genitals and can have future consequences, such as infertility.

    If you are interested in other methods of contraception, read our previous articles:

  • Birth control options: Contraception that you have to use on schedule

    Birth control options: Contraception that you have to use on schedule

    If you belong to the type of people who is never late and do everything on time, these protection methods are definitely worth remembering. Contraception methods described below must be used on strict schedule, as the risk of becoming pregnant increases significantly if you forget to take, for example, a birth control pill. Contraception that is used on a regular schedule is extremely reliable, but the costs are also higher.

    Also read: “Contraception you can use during sexual intercourse” and read about various birth control methods that do not cost money.

    Contraception used on a regular schedule. Short-term contraception. Injection, ring, patch, birth control pills. Contraception used according to a certain schedule Sekss.lv

    Injection

    This is a hormone injection that protects against unwanted pregnancies for 90 days. Efficacy – 99% when used very responsibly and according to instructions, usually 94%. This medicine is one of the best protectors against unwanted pregnancies, and gynecologists recommend it for women who have painful and extremely heavy periods. However, the disadvantages of this contraceptive must also be taken into account. The “Healthline” states that you have to wait at least 10 months after the last injection if you want to have a baby. In addition, eating disorders, nausea, chest tightness, and changes in libido and mood may occur in the first months after the procedure.

    Ring

    It is a 7-centimeter-wide contraceptive that contains estrogen and progesterone. Such a ring that stops ovulation is prescribed by a gynecologist. The ring is inserted by the woman herself and should be left for 3 weeks, after which it is recommended to remove it for one week so that menstruations can start. The reliability of this method is 91%, and the average cost is up to 200 euros. Some disadvantages: may cause breast tenderness, headaches. Woman is not protected from pregnancy when she does not wear a ring for that week off.

    The contraceptive ring is an effective means of protection Sekss.lv

    Patch

    It is glued to the arm or back. It releases estrogen and progestin in the body, which stops ovulation and makes pregnancy impossible. The patch should be changed once a week, but it is recommended that you do not use it for one week so that you period can start. The effectiveness of this method is 91%. Many women emphasize the benefits of using the patch, such as relatively few side effects. You also don’t have to think about another contraceptive for a whole week.

    Birth control pills

    It is a contraceptive that must be used at the same time each day. The hormones in the pills stop ovulation and you cannot get pregnant. When used perfectly on schedule, the chance of getting pregnant is only 1%. However, many women admit that it is not always possible to remember to take a pill on time during a trip or after a good party, which reduces the effectiveness of this method to 91%. One of the biggest advantages of this protection method is that there is no need to insert or implant anything. Gynecologists often prescribe birth control pills to women to relieve various menstrual symptoms.

  • Birth control to use during sexual intercourse

    Birth control to use during sexual intercourse

    Continuing our series of articles on birth control (read the previous article on free contraception here), this time we will look at the contraceptive methods that you can use during each intercourse.

    Different types of condoms, contraceptive sponges, diaphragms, spermicides are contraceptives that are much more reliable than the “natural” methods of protection mentioned in the previous article. These are often called barrier birth control methods. Compared to different medicine, the cost of these contraceptives is relatively low and it causes minimal side effects in the body (except in rare cases of allergies).

    Contraception to use during sexual intercourse. Contraceptives. Methods of contraception. Condoms, birth control sponge, diaphragm, cervical cup, spermicide. Sekss.lv

    Female condoms

    These are internal condoms that do not contain latex and hormones. Their main component is polyurethane, so they are perfect for people who are allergic to latex material. As they protect against direct contact with partners. Such condoms not only help prevent unwanted pregnancies, but also provide excellent protection against sexually transmitted diseases. However, according to the Planned Parenthood Association website, such condoms provide only 79% protection. These condoms can be placed before sexual intercourse – they can remain in a woman’s body for up to 8 hours – a great alternative for those couples for whom putting on male condoms is inconvenient and spoils spontaneous passion.

    Male condoms

    It can be said that this is the classic of birth control. Due to their good price and high efficiency (98% when used correctly), condoms are extremely popular with people of all ages. Because condoms also protect against STDs (sexually transmitted diseases), they are often used by people who do not have a regular sex partner or who enjoy one night stands. Condoms are also extremely available – they can be purchased at virtually any point of sale. However, people see some flaws in condoms. For example, others claim that they suppress feelings, and it is also possible that a condom may break during sex.

    Contraceptive sponge

    This “barrier” method did not appear on the world market until 2005. It is a soft disc-shaped device with intrauterine contraception. It is made of polyurethane foam and contains the spermicide nonoxynol-9. Before intercourse, the sponge must be moistened and inserted into the vagina with the loop side down by covering the cervix. The effectiveness of the contraceptive sponge is 84-91% for women who have not given birth and 68-80% for those who already have children. The contraceptive sponge is valid for several sessions within 24 hours, however, there is a risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome if the sponge is not removed for more than 30 hours. The contraceptive sponge does not protect against HIV and sexually transmitted diseases. If a woman is allergic to nonoxynol-9, another method of contraception should be chosen.

    Diaphragm

    This is a prescription, reusable method of contraception. The diaphragm looks like a soft, silicone bowl that is saturated with spermicide. One of the biggest benefits of this preventative measure is that the diaphragm does not contain latex or hormones and can remain in a woman’s body for up to 24 hours (do not forget to apply a spermicide every 6 hours). Efficiency – 88%. However, this precaution is not suitable for those who enjoy aggressive and fast sex, as this may cause the device to fall out. The use of a diaphragm is not recommended in women with frequent urinary tract infections.

    Cervical cup

    This is another tool that needs to be saturated with spermicide. The cervical cup is placed on the cervix to prevent sperm from entering it. The effectiveness of this contraceptive depends on whether the woman has given birth: 86% of women who have not given birth and 71% of women who have given birth. This is a great choice for those who do not want to use hormonal contraception or are planning to become pregnant in the near future. The cap should be left in for 4 hours after sexual intercourse. To get it, you need a prescription. It is recommended to buy a new one every 12 months.

    Spermicides

    And now you probably have a question – what are spermicides? Generally speaking, spermicides are a method of contraception that kills sperm and prevents it from moving to the egg. However, spermicides themselves are not effective without additional measures (condom, diaphragm, cervical cap). There are also allergic reactions to spermicides, so we recommend that you follow your body signals and well-being. In addition, spermicides may not work if you are taking medicine for vaginal thrush. These measures also do not protect against STDs.

  • Contraception: Which to Choose?

    Contraception: Which to Choose?

    In old biology textbooks it was written that abstinence is the best way to prevent pregnancy. However, is it really worth not experiencing pleasure like orgasm just because of old suggestions? We believe that sex should not be given up to avoid pregnancy. There are almost 20 different types of contraception on the market, so almost anyone can choose the one that suits them best.

    Diversity of contraceptive methods

    Often, couples use only of the most popular methods: condoms, pull-out method, or birth control pills. Due to various allergies, side effects or not very good effectiveness, these three methods of contraception may not be suitable for everyone, so in this article we will discuss not only them, but also alternative measures that may be a little less known.

    However, before you start looking at the pros and cons of spirals or spermicides, you should answer some very important questions:
    • Does it matter to you which one of you will use contraception?
    • Are you planning to have children and maybe you don’t want them at all?
    • Are you able to stick to a schedule, or would you rather classify yourself as a forgetful person?
    • What is your income?
    • Do you want to not think about contraception every day, but just enjoy sex with your other half?
    • Do you have allergies?
    • Do you have a constant relationship with the same person, or maybe you have more than one partner?
    • Do you suffer from painful periods?

    Given these aspects, all contraceptives available in the industry can be divided into several main groups:
    • Contraception – lifestyle;
    • Contraceptives that you have to use during each sexual intercourse;
    • Scheduled contraceptives;
    • Prolonged contraception;
    • Contraception for life;
    • Contraception after unprotected sex.

    Contraception should be considered even if you do not have a regular partner. According to scientific sources, the average age at which young people lose their virginity is 17 years. Therefore, before starting an intimate relationship, it is important to be aware of possible ways to protect yourself.

    Kontraceptinės tabletės ir prezervatyvai

    Contraception – lifestyle

    Let’s look first at the method of contraception, which does not require any pills or condoms. There are different lifestyle-based ways to prevent pregnancy: abstinence, natural family planning, withdrawal method, breastfeeding.

    However, it is worth noting that these methods are not 100% reliable and can make it difficult to relax during sexual intercourse. In addition, they do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases. On the other hand, they are especially suitable for couples who want children.

    Natural family planning – Rhythm method

    This approach is best suited for couples who have strong, harmonious, lasting relationships. The method of planning a pregnancy involves monitoring the menstrual cycle and symptoms to avoid sexual intercourse during the fertile days. Although this method of contraception is free, low risk and does not cause any side effects on human health, it is quite risky. According to the US Planned Parenthood Association, this method is effective in 76 to 88% of cases and is one of the least reliable compared to other methods of contraception.

    Abstinence

    As mentioned above, this method of contraception was probably the most popular in Soviet biology textbooks. Although it seems a bit unusual in today’s society, its effectiveness cannot be questioned in any case. In order to become pregnant, the sperm must reach the egg, but this cannot happen without sex with a partner. This method costs nothing and is 100% reliable. True, this does not mean that sex should be completely ruled out – you can still get the most out of solo games.

    Breastfeeding

    This is another way to prevent an unplanned pregnancy determined by your lifestyle. And although it is believed to be reliable in 98% of cases, gynecologists recommend not trusting it too much. Theoretically, if a woman is breastfeeding, ovulation does not occur, so the egg ready for fertilization simply does not form. However, according to various sources, it requires frequent breastfeeding – at least every 4 hours. In addition, if your baby is older than 6 months, the chance of getting pregnant increases significantly even if you are breastfeeding. Therefore, women are advised to always listen to their body: if menstruation begins, this method of contraception becomes ineffective.

    Withdrawal method

    One of the simplest and most popular methods of contraception, the effectiveness of which is completely transferred to the man’s hands: before ejaculation, he must remove his penis from your vagina so that the egg is not fertilized. Sounds simple, but is it really? This method is effective in preventing pregnancy in only 78% of cases, so it is very important to consider the potential risks with your partner before deciding whether to use it in your sexual life. In addition, it is important to keep in mind that this method can cause additional stress to a man, which often affects the quality of sex.

    Outercourse

    To avoid pregnancy, it is enough not to make vaginal sex. Therefore, it is possible to use different sex toys or try anal sex (but it should be noted that pregnancy can occur if the sperm enters the vaginal canal).

    In the following articles we will look at other methods of contraception.

  • Female condom – an aid for more intense pleasure?

    Female condom – a relic of the past or a modern form of protection? Although this type of sunscreen experienced daylight more than 40 years ago, a relatively small section of the public is aware of its existence and excellent protection. If we look at the numbers, only about 17% of the world’s sexually active women use condoms of fair sex regularly. In order to increase the importance of safe sex in today’s modern world, Sekss.lv invites you to look into the world of women’s condoms, as well as find an answer to a rather intriguing question, namely, do these protective means more intense pleasure for both women and men?

    THE BEGINNINGS OF THE FEMALE CONDOM

    The first female condom

    The women’s condom had its first release in the 1980s. However, this invention became a recognized method of protection in the health sector only in 1994. It should be noted that the original female condoms were released under a rather ingenious name, namely “Practice” or “Exercise”, which perfectly refers to the English-speaking saying “Practice makes perfect” or “Exercise makes perfect”. ‘. Female condoms are often referred to as “femidomes”.

    It should be noted that this nitrile product appeared in Europe much later, around 1998, which perfectly explains the fact that Europeans are still a little slower to buy a particular product.

    HYPOALLERGENIC AND LATEX FREE

    Women's condon

    Of course, in the period from the 1980s to the present day, this invention has changed considerably. Women’s condoms have become thinner, easier, and more comfortable to insert, as well as more durable and many times more accessible. These nitrile products do not lag behind male condoms – hypoallergenic, lubricated, and latex-free femidomes are available on the market today.

    PECULIARITIES OF WOMEN’S CONDON USE

    Female condom - use

    If you’ve never encountered a woman’s condom before, its construction and insertion into a woman’s body may seem complicated enough – but it’s not at all! Femidom is very similar to traditional condoms. The most important factor that distinguishes female condoms from male condoms is the fact that there is a thicker type of ring on the front of the product (the tip that a woman inserts into her genitals). This ring formation acts as a great helper in the condom insertion process, as well as ensures that the femidom stays in place.

    Note that the outer ring of the femidom will be about one or two centimeters outside the woman’s vagina! If this ring is not noticeable from the outside, it is a sign that the insertion process has gone a little wrong.

    Most women who are interested in trying a female condom are concerned about the process of removing the condom, but this activity will not be too difficult. First of all, when starting to remove the condom, it is desirable to be in a supine position – so as not to risk getting dirty and sperm leaking from the condom. Second, before releasing the femidom, the outer end of the condom should be gripped so that it can be tightly twisted to ensure that the sperm is contained. Once both of the above steps are done, femidom can be slowly and gradually removed from a woman’s body.

    NO, FOR CONFUSING MOMENTS!

    No embarrassing moments

    It should be noted that a female condom can be inserted into a lady’s body several hours before sex! This fact tends to be useful in cases where the lady does not want to disrupt the magic of the moment, as well as longs to be ready to start the act without the confusing process of inserting a condom.

    REASONS TO CHOOSE FEMALE CONDOMS

    Benefits of femidone

    Why is it worth trying and replacing traditional condons with femidomes? Pay attention to the following reasons:

    • Female condoms can be used with both water and silicone-based lubricants;
    • Femidoms are not restrictive of the male penis, thus increasing the sensitivity and pleasure of the penis during sexual intercourse;
    • Thanks to the rings in the femidome, a woman can also get extra pleasure. The outer condom ring stimulates the woman’s clitoris, while the inner one – helps with pleasant irritation of the woman’s vagina;
    • Femidoms fit perfectly in a woman’s vagina – it is not worth worrying about unnaturalness or feeling of restraint during intimate communication;
    • Female condoms can also be used for anal sex to prevent unwanted STDs (sexually transmitted diseases).

    Choosing in favor of a female condom for everyday use to stay in the hands of beauties, but note that when using femidome, a traditional condom is not necessary! This method will not provide double protection, but will significantly increase the risk of both condoms bursting!