It is helpful to plan some form of contraception unless you are prepared for the possibility of parenthood.
Contraception is also no guarantee against getting a sexually transmitted infection, so it is helpful to be at the least well-informed before you embark on a sexual encounter, whether planned or not. Apart from abstinence, the safest way of protecting yourself from the consequences of sexual contact is to use a barrier method of contraception. Condoms are the most commonly used barrier method. They are inexpensive, readily available, and the most convenient way of lessening the possibility of both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. If used correctly, they are nearly as effective as an oral contraceptive, but this generally requires them to be used with lubricants to make them less likely to break. It is helpful if you have never used a condom before to find out how to use them – in the heat of the moment you may not put it on correctly, and you must remember to hold the condom on the penis while withdrawing. The female condom is also available. They are latex free, so are suitable for those people that are allergic to latex in the male condom. Other methods of contraception do not protect against sexually transmitted infections but are regarded as more reliable contraceptives. These include the combined oral contraceptive and the mini-pill, which contains only one hormone, instead of the two in the combined oral contraceptive. Both of these need to be taken regularly every day, and need to be taken for some days before they are able to be relied on as contraceptives. Contraceptive implants are now available on prescription. They are small rods that are inserted into the upper arm of a woman and are left in place for three to five years, depending on the type of implant. The contraceptive coil may also be inserted in the vagina. They contain either a hormone or copper and are effective for up to five years.
0 Comments
|
GPVP newsFind out about health issues from your pharmacy team ArchivesCategories
All
|