How to get Pregnant » How Not To Get Pregnant

How Not to Get Pregnant

There are times when an unplanned pregnancy can have serious consequences which is why so many individuals, as well as couples, seek advice on how not to get pregnant. Fortunately, there are a variety of methods available so that there should be a viable option for literally every person. Some methods are short term while others provide a more permanent solution. While the choice is personal to some extent, some solutions are based on the advice of a qualified physician. Knowing your options helps you make a decision that is right for you based on your current situation and any future goals you have.

Step 1: Abstinence

Of course the surest advice anyone could give on how not to get pregnant would be to abstain from sexual intercourse. Unfortunately, this isn't realistic in all situations. Some religions hold to abstinence as the only acceptable method of birth control while some individuals find it to be the safest choice. This is, however, the only 'natural' option available.

Step 2: Birth Control Pills

Birth control pills are often referred to as 'the pill' or 'oral contraception.' They come in a variety of forms from something known as 'the morning after pill' to pills taken in monthly cycles. Of all the methods of birth control, pills are thought to carry the highest risk of side effects, some of which are known to be serious. For this reason alone, many women seek other alternatives.

Step 3: Prophylactics

Prophylactics are available for both men and women. The method in which a prophylactic works is to prevent sperm from entering the cervix. In males the prophylactic covers the penis while in the female version, the diaphragm is inserted into the vagina to cover the cervix so sperm can't reach the uterus. In either case, a prophylactic provides a barrier that, ideally, sperm cannot penetrate.

Step 4: Depo-Provera Shot

A Depo-Provera Shot, sometimes simply referred to as a Depo Shot is an injectable synthetic progesterone that does not contain estrogen. It works by inhibiting the ovary from releasing eggs and by thickening cervical mucous making it extremely difficult for sperm to reach their target. These shots are given every three months.

Step 5: Intrauterine Device

An Intrauterine Device (IUD) is inserted into the uterus to prevent fertilization. There are two main types. One is a copper wound, T-shaped device that causes the release of substances that create a hostile environment for both eggs and sperm while the other is a hormone (synthetic progesterone) releasing devise. The copper wound (Paragard) IUD works by causing the body to release hostile substances while the hormone releasing Mirena actually contains the hormone that is released. The Paragard is known to be effective for approximately 10 years while the Mirena only lasts 5.

Step 6: Implantable Birth Control

One of the most revolutionary methods of birth control is an implantable rod that is delivered by injection into the arm. The small match stick sized implant delivers the hormone etonogestrel over a three year period, preventing pregnancy. Some women don't tolerate other contraceptive methods well, and find this a much welcome solution. For the first two years it prevents ovaries from dropping eggs but during the entire period it also works by thickening cervical mucous in much the same way as the Depo Shot.

Step 7: Tubal Ligation

This is a form of female contraception where the fallopian tubes are tied or pinched off during a surgical procedure. It is often referred to as having the 'tubes tied' and works by preventing sperm from reaching eggs to fertilize them. While there are times when a tubal ligation can be reversed, it isn't always 100% guaranteed. Although this is considered a permanent contraceptive measure, tubal ligations are not always foolproof since tubes can reconnect after a certain period of time.

Step 8: Vasectomy

A vasectomy is a permanent form of birth control for the male. Similar in function to a tubal ligation in a female, a vasectomy prevents sperm from entering the semen. Unfortunately, while a vasectomy can be reversed, it is possible the man will be infertile. While there are several reasons for this, the main factor is the presence of autoantibodies that interfere with the motility of sperm.

Given the broad range of choices that have proven to be effective in preventing pregnancy, there is an alternative for literally everyone. Some forms of birth control are temporary fixes while others are permanent solutions. It is up to the sole discretion of the individual/couple which method will provide the desirable level of protection.