Questions about contraceptive methods

Contraceptive methods are used to regulate the reproductive capacity of an individual or a couple in order to avoid unwanted pregnancies and/or plan the time at which they want to have children.

Depending on the possibility of regaining fertility, they are classified as: temporary and permanent.

SHORT-TERM CONTRACEPTIVE METHODS

HORMONAL CONTRACEPTIVE PILLS

FAQ

How do they act?

Taking them daily prevents ovulation and also makes the mucus in the cervix become thick, preventing the passage of sperm.

EFFECTIVENESS

Birth control pills are a very effective method of contraception if used correctly. They are around 98% effective. Taking birth control pills correctly ensures their effectiveness.

What to do in case of discomfort?

If you suspect you are pregnant, have severe headache, chest pain, difficulty breathing, yellowing of the eyes or skin, leg pain, or persistent discomfort for more than 6 months of use, you should seek immediate medical check-up.

How long should it be used?

It is recommended to use them for up to five years, since they do not accumulate in the body.

CAUSES OF FAILURE

Forgetting to take the pills
Using some medications at the same time, such as antibiotics, anticonvulsants, etc.
Present diarrhea or vomiting

What should I do if I forget to take them?

If you forget 2 or more pills, you should take one immediately and continue with the rest of the pills as usual. It is recommended to use a condom in this case or avoid sexual intercourse.
If you experience a menstrual delay of more than 7 days, stop taking the contraceptive and see your doctor for an immediate check-up.

What side reactions can occur?

Some women may experience discomfort such as:

Headache and nausea
Vomiting, which may reduce its effectiveness if it occurs within an hour of taking the pill
Spotting between periods, these discomforts usually disappear after a couple of months of taking the pills
Increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight, so it is recommended to use umbrellas or sunscreen

ADVANTAGES

Regularizes menstruation
Reduces the amount and days of menstrual bleeding, as well as discomfort related to menstruation (cramps, breast pain)
Decreases or eliminates acne (pimples and blackheads) and hair thickness
Reduces the risk of ovarian and uterine cancer

What to do in case of pregnancy?

If pregnancy occurs while taking the pills, it is recommended to stop taking them; their use does not harm the baby.

Can it affect fertility or mood changes?

The pills do not cause sterility or mood swings. When you stop taking the pills, you become fertile immediately.

Is it safe to use?

The use of this contraceptive method is safe, however it is recommended to go for a check-up with your family doctor at least once a year or if you experience any discomfort other than those mentioned or at any time you have doubts about the use of this contraceptive method.

MALE CONDOM OR CONDOM

The male condom is a latex sheath that is placed on the erect penis before sexual intercourse and covers it completely.

FAQ

How does it work?

It prevents sperm from entering the vagina during sexual intercourse, as it acts as a barrier and thus prevents pregnancy.
If used correctly, a condom also reduces the chance of contracting a sexually transmitted infection.

EFFECTIVENESS

Its effectiveness as a contraceptive method is 85 to 95%. If used correctly, the possibility of failure is reduced.

How to use it?

Check the expiration date
Open the package taking care not to break the condom.
Place the condom, without unrolling, on the tip of the erect penis.
Squeeze the tip of the condom as you spread it out to cover the entire penis, avoiding air bubbles as they can break the condom during intercourse and cause leakage.
If the man is not circumcised, he should push the skin of the penis back until the glans (head of the penis) is free.
After ejaculation and before losing the erection, the penis should be removed from the vagina by holding the end of the condom, preventing sperm from spilling out.
Use a new condom every time you have sex.
Condoms should never be reused.

ADVANTAGES

Contraceptive method in which the man participates in family planning
Reduces the chance of sexually transmitted infections including HIV
Can be used by men of any age
They are easy to obtain in many places (Family Medicine Units, pharmacies, supermarkets, etc.)
They help prevent premature ejaculation
It does not decrease sensitivity, nor does it hinder ejaculation and orgasm.
Some men can sustain sexual intercourse for longer when using a male condom, which is more rewarding for both him and his partner.

Is it possible for it to break or slip during a relationship?

Condoms can be damaged by storage too long, extreme heat, sun exposure, or moisture. Avoid this to reduce the chance of condom breakage.

There may be semen leakage or the condom may remain inside the vagina.

Although there is little chance of the penis breaking or remaining inside the vagina when the penis is withdrawn after ejaculation, if this happens, see your doctor as soon as possible for specific information.

INJECTABLE HORMONALS

There are three forms of injectable hormonal contraceptives: monthly, bi-monthly and quarterly. The monthly form contains combined hormones (estrogen and progesterone), while the bi-monthly and quarterly forms contain only progestin.

Contraceptive injections containing combined hormones can be used by any healthy woman who wishes to avoid or space her pregnancies, and who has previously received counseling.

FAQ

How do they act?

Contraceptive injections contain hormones similar to those produced by women. They temporarily prevent pregnancy by preventing ovulation and making the mucus produced in the cervix become very thick, preventing the passage of sperm.

EFFECTIVENESS

Injectable monthly hormonal contraceptives are highly effective from the first day of use, being greater than 99% if used properly.

Those applied quarterly are highly effective in the first year of use. If administered regularly, the effectiveness is greater than 99%.

How and where are they applied?

Consult your doctor for all the information.

Do they alter the monthly pattern?

The first bleeding after the first injection may occur one or two weeks earlier. This is normal, so subsequent injections should be given regardless of the days of menstruation.
In some women, menstruation may disappear while using the injections. This is due to the type of hormone they contain and does not represent any harm to health if the injections are used properly.
If menstruation does not occur and there is nausea or dizziness, vomiting, breast pain, abdominal swelling, pregnancy should be ruled out and the patient should be seen by the doctor for a check-up.

EFFECTIVENESS

Injectable monthly hormonal contraceptives are highly effective from the first day of use, being greater than 99% if used properly.

Those applied quarterly are highly effective in the first year of use. If administered regularly, the effectiveness is greater than 99%.

How and where are they applied?

Consult your doctor for all the information.

Do they alter the monthly pattern?

The first bleeding after the first injection may occur one or two weeks earlier. This is normal, so subsequent injections should be given regardless of the days of menstruation.
In some women, menstruation may disappear while using the injections. This is due to the type of hormone they contain and does not represent any harm to health if the injections are used properly.
If menstruation does not occur and there is nausea or dizziness, vomiting, breast pain, abdominal swelling, pregnancy should be ruled out and the patient should be seen by the doctor for a check-up.

Additional benefits to contraception

Reduces the amount and days of menstrual bleeding
Reduces discomfort related to menstruation (cramps, breast pain)
Reduces or eliminates acne (pimples and blackheads)
Reduces hair thickness
Reduces the risk of ovarian cancer and uterine cancer
Reduces the likelihood of infections of the uterus, tubes and ovaries
Reduces the possibility of developing ovarian and breast cysts

What side reactions can occur?

Some women may experience headaches, nausea or dizziness, skin spots, and changes in menstruation. These discomforts are usually temporary and gradually decrease.

Is it safe to use?

The use of this contraceptive method is quite safe, however you should go for a check-up with your doctor at least once a year, or when you have any discomfort other than what has been mentioned or at any time you have doubts regarding the use of this contraceptive method.

How long can they be used?

Continuous use is recommended for up to five years, and they do not accumulate in the body. When discontinuing use, fertility returns almost immediately.

Do they cause diseases?

Studies indicate that the use of injectables reduces the risk of endometrial cancer by 60%. It has no effect on the risk of ovarian cancer. It does not influence the risk of breast cancer.

Source: Introduction to contraceptive methods: General information. November 2002. Second edition. Ministry of Health. www.salud.gob.mx/unidades/cdi/documentos/DOCSAL7202.pdf

HORMONAL PATCH

It is a thin, square plastic patch that sticks to the skin and releases hormones similar to those produced by women, inhibiting ovulation and thickening cervical mucus.

FAQ

Who can use it?

Any healthy woman who wants to temporarily avoid pregnancy and who has previously received a consultation.

EFFECTIVENESS

It is a highly effective contraceptive starting 24 hours after its application. If used correctly, its effectiveness is 99%.

How and where are they applied?

Consult your doctor for more details on use and application.

DISADVANTAGES

There may be bleeding or spotting between menstrual periods.
Headache
Increased breast tenderness
Dizziness, nausea and vomiting
There may be redness or irritation at the application site.
These symptoms do not affect health and almost always disappear within the first 3 months of use.

When should it be reviewed?

One month after using the contraceptive patch.
When you need it to clarify doubts or deal with any side effects.
If side effects persist, see your doctor immediately.

LONG-ACTING CONTRACEPTIVE METHODS

SUBDERMAL HORMONAL

The implant is a temporary contraceptive that is the size of a small, thin rod. The implant must be placed in the arm by a health professional. It gradually and continuously releases hormones into the body that prevent pregnancy: you are protected against pregnancy for up to 3 years.

FAQ

Does the implant protect against Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)?

It does not protect against STDs, using a male or female condom every time you have sex reduces your chances of getting or spreading an STD.

How effective is the subdermal implant?

Under normal conditions of use, this method provides contraceptive protection greater than 99%.

Who can use this method?

This method is indicated for women of childbearing age who are sexually active, who have not been pregnant or who have had several pregnancies, including adolescents with a regular menstrual pattern who want a long-acting hormonal contraceptive method.

When can this method be used?

Before the first pregnancy, even when the use of estrogens is contraindicated.
Postpartum or post-cesarean section, with or without breastfeeding.
In the immediate post-abortion period.

Which women cannot use this contraceptive method?

Pregnancy or suspected pregnancy.
Having or having had breast or cervical cancer.
Having or having had benign or malignant liver tumors.
Active acute or chronic liver disease.
During chronic administration of rifampicin or anticonvulsants.

The possibility of decreased effectiveness of the method after two years of use in women weighing more than 70 kilograms should be considered.

Both insertion and removal of subdermal implants must be performed by trained health personnel, under medical supervision.

What effects can appear after placement?

Some women may experience bruising at the injection site, local infection, inflammation at the injection site, and menstrual irregularities.

What is the procedure to follow in case of side effects?

You should see a doctor and if you experience intolerance to menstrual irregularities, the method should be discontinued, as should a pregnancy.

When should the implant be checked?

The first visit must be made within the first month after insertion and then every year, until the implant has been effective for years, for its replacement or change of method according to the user's wishes.

COPPER "T" INTRAUTERINE DEVICE

The copper intrauterine device (IUD) is a safe and effective contraceptive method that temporarily prevents pregnancy.

It is made of flexible plastic and has a vertical branch and a horizontal one in the shape of a T. The vertical branch is surrounded by a copper wire, which prevents the passage of sperm.

It is placed inside the matrix, using a special tube designed for this purpose.

FAQ

How many types are there?

At GINESER we have 3 types of copper intrauterine devices: the standard copper T IUD, for women who have already had children and the copper T IUD for nulliparous women (who do not yet have children) and which is smaller in size and the copper T IUD with silver threads that helps prevent vaginal infections.

How does the Copper T IUD work?

Its contraceptive action of copper is limited to the uterine cavity.
The function of the copper intrauterine device is to prevent the meeting of the egg and sperm.
Reduces the chance of the sperm fertilizing the egg

Who can use it?

Any healthy woman who wishes to temporarily avoid pregnancy and who has previously received counseling.

How effective is it?

The IUD is a very effective contraceptive method if used correctly. Contraceptive effectiveness is greater than 98%.
The contraceptive period of action is 10 years for the standard copper T IUD and the T IUD for nulliparous women and 5 years for the copper T IUD with silver threads.

When can it be applied?

The IUD can be used during menstruation or at any time, if it is certain that the person is not pregnant, such as: after childbirth, during a cesarean section or after an abortion (as long as there is no evidence of infection).
The device does not require frequent changes or "rest" periods.
It can also be used as an emergency method up to 5 days after risky sexual intercourse, with a 99% effectiveness.

What are the benefits and advantages?

Easy to apply and remove
It does not interfere with sexual relations
Does not interfere with breastfeeding
Effective from the moment of placement
Regardless of the length of use, the return to fertility is immediate after its removal.
It has no interaction with medications.

What side reactions can occur?

Some women experience cramps and irregular menstrual bleeding during the first 3 or 4 months, which gradually decreases.

When should it be reviewed?

You should go for a check-up one month after application, then after 6 months and then every year for as long as the contraceptive effect lasts.

HORMONAL INTRAUTERINE DEVICE

It is a T-shaped plastic device that contains a hormone-releasing system that prevents an unplanned pregnancy.

FAQ

Who can use it?

It is a temporary but long-lasting contraceptive method that can be used by women at any time in their reproductive life, regardless of age or the number of pregnancies they have had.
It can also be used in women with heavy periods or who are in the premenopausal stage (who are over 40 years of age).

What is the effectiveness and duration?

Contraceptive effectiveness is greater than 99%
The period of contraceptive protection is 5 years.

How does this method work?

The contraceptive action of the device is limited to the uterine cavity.

It combines the benefits and effectiveness of a hormonal IUD with those of hormonal contraception. The hormone contained in the device thickens the mucus in the cervix, which reduces the chance of sperm fertilizing the egg.

What side reactions can occur?

The discomforts that may occur after the application of the hormonal IUD are the following:
Breast pain
Menstrual irregularities
Suspension of menstruation
Acne
Functional ovarian cysts

These discomforts diminish or disappear completely after three or four months of use, as do functional ovarian cysts.

When should it be reviewed?

The first check-up appointment with your doctor is one month after the IUD is placed and subsequent appointments are every 6 months for the first year.

Subsequently, appointments should be made annually until the contraceptive effectiveness ends (which lasts 5 years). It is important to know that a new IUD can be inserted at the time of removal.

IN CASE OF DOUBT, WHO SHOULD YOU CONTACT?

If you have any questions about using a hormonal IUD, please let your doctor know.

PERMANENT CONTRACEPTIVE METHODS

OVARIAN TUBE OCCLUSION OR SALPONGOCLASSIA

It is a permanent or definitive contraceptive method that is performed on women who do not wish to have children permanently or who already have the desired number of children and who have previously received counseling; this contraceptive procedure is performed on women at any time that they decide not to have more children.

It consists of making a small surgical incision, which can be done through the navel immediately after delivery, or at the level of the pubic hairline; it can also be done during a Caesarean section.

Different types of anesthesia can be used to perform it depending on the physical characteristics of the woman.

Through a small wound made at the aforementioned sites, the fallopian tubes are identified, which are cut and tied to prevent the passage of the egg and sperm, thus avoiding pregnancy.

FAQ

EFFECTIVENESS

It is a highly effective method, the effectiveness is greater than 99%.

ADVANTAGES

Its contraceptive effectiveness is immediate.
It does not interfere with sexual intercourse
Does not interfere with breastfeeding
Promotes the enjoyment of sexual relations without the fear of pregnancy
The period of hospitalization after childbirth, caesarean section or legal termination of pregnancy is not increased
It has no side effects on women's health.
It has a protective effect against ovarian cancer.
Recovery after surgery is fast (7 days on average)

When should it be reviewed?

The check-up appointment is 7 days after surgery, where the patient is monitored for complications (wound infection).

Does not produce

Cancer
Character changes
Weight gain
Premature menopause
Decreased sexual desire

NO-SCALPEEL VASECTOMY

It is a permanent or definitive contraceptive method for men who do not wish to have children permanently or who have the desired number of children, and who have previously received counseling.

It consists of a small operation performed without a scalpel, with local anesthesia, making a puncture in the skin of the scrotal sac above where the testicles are located, through which the vas deferens, the site through which sperm pass, are located, tied and cut.

A no-scalpel vasectomy only prevents the passage of sperm, which are still produced but are absorbed by the body.

FAQ

EFFECTIVENESS

It is a highly effective method, its effectiveness being greater than 99%.

BENEFITS

It is a permanent contraceptive method
Does not interfere with sexual activity
There are no immediate or long-term health risks.
It is a simple surgical procedure that does not require hospitalization.
Recovery is rapid, allowing you to quickly return to your normal activities.
It is the ideal method for men when their partner has chronic health problems.

When can it be done?

A vasectomy can be performed at any time, as long as the man has the planned number of children, has received counseling emphasizing that this contraceptive method is permanent or definitive, and has voluntarily requested it from his doctor.

THE FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS WILL BE GIVEN TO YOU BY THE DOCTOR DURING THE CONSULTATION