Pages: 1 2 3  Next -- Posted by Artistic Drain at 5:41 pm on July 26, 2006 Topic: Contraception   Sorry people, didn’t get July’s sexual awareness topic done, so this one is coming a bit early. For those of you who do not know, one of these topics will appear monthly and be stickied in the Sexuality forum. It is here for you to learn, ask questions, make comments and discuss the said topic. So, this month is contraception. I will be covering many times, including ways to terminate pregnancy, but will be focusing on the most commonly used methods.   This is all Canadian data because I am using Canada books   The Pill   What is it?   A pill is taken daily. It contains estrogen and progestin, which are taken for 21 days and a placebo (sugar) pill is taken for the remaining 7days of the girl’s cycle.   How does it work?   The pill mainly prevents pregnancy by preventing ovulation (release of an egg) from occurring. In a normal cycle where birth control is not being used, estrogen levels naturally 5days into the cycle which releases the egg. By preventing this drop in estrogen, the pill is never released.   Another way the pill prevents pregnancy is by creating thick mucus which covers the cervix. This helps block sperm from reaching the uterus. Also, a layer is formed in the uterus to make it difficult for an egg to attach itself to the uterus lining, if in fact an egg is released.   In short, the pill tricks the body into thinking it is pregnant. Therefore, many minor side effects are similar symptoms of pregnancy.   Effectiveness   Most failures occur when the pill is not taken correctly, or pills are skipped. If you miss a pill, be sure to use a backup method of birth control such as a condom.   According to the Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada (2000), the failure rate of the pill is 3%. However, when it is taken perfectly, the failure rate is 0.1%.   Side Effects   -slight increased chance of getting circulatory diseases (if you have a strong family past or health problems yourself regarding the circulatory system, your doctor should not administer you the pill)   -high blood pressure   -if you have cancer of the cervix, uterus or breasts, it can aggravate it. However it does not increase your chance of developing cancer.   -Some brands cause weight loss and nausea. Switching brands often can fix this   -Some women report moodiness and decreased desire for sex   How to get it   A prescription from a doctor. Your doctor should ask about your health past, family health history and do a Pap smear. A check up should occur 3-4months after starting the pill to check for any serious side effects.     Norplant and Depo-Provera   Norplant   What is it? How does it work?   Usually 6 match stick sized rods placed under the skin of the arm by a doctor. It lasts for 5 years, slowly releasing progestin into the body.   It works very similar to the pill because it prevents ovulation and creates thick mucus to block sperm.   Effectiveness   Norplant is the most effective form of contraception (other than sterilization), with a failure rate of 0.2%   Side Effects   -irregular bleeding (including spotting, extra long periods, and break through bleeding)   -difficulty removing, infection or irritation in the place of insertion (not common)   -No other major side effects have been noted due to the short time the product has been on the market   How to get it   Through your doctor.   Depo-Provera (the shot)   -an injection administered every 3months   -Often used for women who are not able to use the pill (women who smoke, have heart problems)   -Very effective, with a failure rate of less than 1%   -Fairly expensive, being roughly $40 a shot (CND)   -Often stops periods completely, therefore women who have extremely heavy periods often use this method of birth control   -Seriously side effects have not been documented due to the short time it has been on the market   The IUD (intrauterine device)   What is it?   The IUD is a T shaped device made of metal, plastic and copper, inserted into the cervix by a doctor.   The IUD prevents fertilization. The device stops sperm from being able to enter the uterus and fallopian tubes. The device also releases progestin directly into the uterus, reducing chances of fertilization if the sperm gets through the block.   Effectiveness   The effectiveness of the UDI is 0.8% after the first year of use; then continues to decrease after that year. It is good for 5-8years.   Side Effects   -A major side effect is pelvic inflammatory disease(PID). The UDI aggravates already existing pelvic infections   -Increased menstrual cramping, irregular bleeding and increased menstrual flow   How to get it   Through your doctor. It typically costs about $60 (CND)   Diaphragm, Cervical Cap, Lea Contraceptive and the Contraceptive Sponge   Diaphragm   What is it and how does it work?   The Diaphragm is a circular, dome shaped piece of thin rubber which is inserted into the vagina and then snuggly fits over the cervix. The Diaphragm must be filled with a conceptive jelly or cream and put in place 6hours before intercourse. It also must be left in place for 6hours after intercourse and should never be in place for longer than 24hours. Leaving it in for longer than 24hours places the woman at risk of developing toxic shock syndrome.   The Diaphragm prevents pregnancy by blocking sperm from entering the uterus and killing sperm with contraceptive creams and jellies.   Effectiveness   Failure rates vary due to the fact that most women who use this method are older and less fertile. It is estimated to have a 20%failure rate.   Side Effects   -Irritation of the vagina or penis (which can be fixed by switching brands of creams usually)   -Rare reports of toxic shock syndrome if left in for over 24hours     Cervical Cap   Similar to the Diaphragm but somewhat different in shape so it fits more snuggly around the cervix. All side effects, uses and information are the same as using the Diaphragm. The failure is 18%.     Lea Contraceptive and Contraceptive Sponge   The Lea Contraceptive is another barrier method of birth control, similar to the Diaphragm and Cervical Cap. This one is different in shape, allowing an even snugger fit. It has a failure rate around 8.7% when spermicidal creams are used. When creams are not used, it has a failure rate around 12.9%.   The sponge is foam that fits over the cervix. It can be put in 15minutes before sex and lasts for hours. It must remain in for 6hours after sex. The failure rate is between 21 and 26%.   All blocking devices should be fitted by your doctor.   Male Condom   What is it and how does it work?   A latex or animal skin shaft that covers an erect penis. It blocks sperm from entering the uterus and often is lubricated with spermicidal substances to help kill sperm.   Condoms are particularly popular due to the fact that they offer protection against STDs, STIs and AIDS. Condoms are the most commonly used method of birth control and are often used in combination with other birth control methods.   Effectiveness   With perfect use, the condom has a failure rate of 3%. However, the typical failure rate is about 14% due to improper use.   Combined with the pill, foam or Diaphragm, it is almost 100% effect.   Side Effects   The condom has no side effects other than allergic reactions to latex. Also, condoms with spermicidal lubricants often cause increased irritation and allergic reactions.   How to get it   Condoms can be purchased without a prescription. They are found at most pharmacies and health clinics.   Female Condom   What is it and how is it used?   It is a latex product with a ring in both ends. The closed ring is inserted into the vagina and is fitted much like a diaphragm. The other end is spread over the vaginal opening. The condom works the same as a male condom by blocking sperm from entering the vagina. The condom protects against STDs, STIs and AIDS.   Effectiveness   Typical user failure rate is 21%. Perfect use is 5%.   Side Effects   There are no major side effects with the female condom other than irritation to the skin and genitalia in both males and females.   Spermicides   Spermicides are foams, creams and jellies which kill sperm. They have a high failure rate of 25% and are not considered an effect form of birth control when used alone. 2% of males and 26% of females report allergic reactions to the products. Spermicides are only effective when used with other forms of birth control.   Unreliable Methods of Birth Control   Douching   Douching is the act of flushing out the vagina with fluid. Douching upsets the natural environment made in the vagina and can cause infections. It is impossible to douche in time to remove all sperm before it enters the uterus. Douching is considered unsafe and unreliable.   Withdrawal   Withdrawal or ‘pulling out’ is the act of pulling the penis out of the vagina before ejaculation. This is not an effective form of birth control because precum is produced when males are aroused, this contains small amounts of sperm.     Emergency Contraception and Abortion   Emergency Contraception   Often referred to as the ‘morning after pill’, it is a pill administered by a doctor to terminate pregnancy within 72hours of conception. One pill is taken and then another a few hours later. Common side effects are abdominal pain, bleeding and nausea.     Abortion   Terminating a pregnancy by removing the developing fetus from the uterus. This is a highly debated procedure and is illegal in some places. This topic has been debated into the ground here on Livewire and has another topic about it so I won’t go into it.     Here is a chart to help you weigh the pros and cons of each method! (you can thank me later! :P )  And yes I realize there is a spelling mistake in the chart, I don't feel like fixing it     Discussion Questions   1. What contraception are you currently using? Are you happy with it or have you had side effects?   2. Which do you consider the best for teenagers to use?   3. Do you think birth control should be easier to get? Should we skip doctor appointments? Should it be free?   (Edited by Artistic Drain at 8:43 pm on July 26, 2006) -- Posted by Larien at 5:50 pm on July 26, 2006 1. What contraception are you currently using? Are you happy with it or have you had side effects? I take TriCyclen Lo. I don't like it. I'm a headache sufferer, and they make them worse. I've been suffering with a migraine that's jumping from mild to severe since Saturday. I do find though that my headaches are usually limited to my period. 2. Which do you consider the best for teenagers to use? For me personally it was an unmentioned one, the Patch. In Canada they are safer than in the US, and they're so easy to use. If you can get it to stay on (thongs and the patch need caution) and you don't have an allergic reaction to the adhesive it's great. 3 times a month you put it in, and that's it. No daily remembering. 3. Do you think birth control should be easier to get? Should we skip doctor appointments? Should it be free? Yes it should be easier to get, but no a doctor's visit should be required. I mean, I suffer from migraines, if I went to some planning place and they gave me a high dose birth control I'd probably have a stroke. And yes I do think they should be free, or at least more cost managable. For the pill with out insurance I'll pay about 240 a month including dispenserary fees... luckily my first 6 months were given to me by my dr. The patch is pricey too at about $30 a month. I can afford it, I work. But what about a 13 year old girl.. there's no way she can afford that with out going to her parents. -- Posted by 4est at 5:51 pm on July 26, 2006 Another possible discussion question: Does your school make it easy to get condoms? For instance, at my school, in the nurses office there is a big bowl full of condoms people can take. -- Posted by Artistic Drain at 5:51 pm on July 26, 2006 I just started TriCyclen Lo. $20 a month, no complaints yet. I really do not go well with condoms though, I must be allergic to latex. They kill my vagina everytime! -- Posted by OpethGirl69 at 5:52 pm on July 26, 2006 I'm using condoms. We're pretty cool with them, we check for anything wrong with it before and after we have sex. I think the pill is your safest bet, though. I think that the pill should be more widely available. There is no clinic in the town I live in, I think there should be more clinics about. -- Posted by aaamandaaa at 6:04 pm on July 26, 2006 1. What contraception are you currently using? Are you happy with it or have you had side effects?   I'm on Cyclessa right now. I've tried Ortho TriCyclen Lo, Ortho TriCyclen, and Alesse I think. Some made me really moody and Alesse made my periods like 8 days long. Cyclessa makes it about 4 days but I'm not sure about moodiness. My boyfriend and I also use condoms although we haven't been as consistent lately. 2. Which do you consider the best for teenagers to use?   I think condoms are good, but a lot of people don't like them. The Pill/Patch is also great, but too many people don't use condoms when they're on the Pill. 3. Do you think birth control should be easier to get? Should we skip doctor appointments? Should it be free?   I think it should be easier for people to get birth control. I get mine from Planned Parenthood, so its free for me, and they don't have to do the uncomfortable checkups. -- Posted by Glow Worm at 6:06 pm on July 26, 2006 I think the patch should be mentioned. I've just got a link to the Planned Parenthood site that does a brief description of it. I just thought it was important. I'm really forgetful, but afraid of needles, so I highly considered getting on the patch. If I ever started birth control, I think I'd use this. -- Posted by OpethGirl69 at 6:08 pm on July 26, 2006 You neglect to mention male birth control, which is available and said to be 100% effective. -- Posted by Artistic Drain at 6:08 pm on July 26, 2006 The patch is so new that it is not in the source I was using. And since it is so new, side effects are not known. Like, some of those have only been approved in Canada since 1994, and they still don't know enough about long term effects. But yea, the patch is something that should be discussed with your doctor. -- Posted by Artistic Drain at 6:09 pm on July 26, 2006 Quote: from OpethGirl69 at 9:08 pm on July 26, 2006 You neglect to mention male birth control, which is available and said to be 100% effective. I am not posting brand new forms of brith control. I believe not enough studies have been done to offer valid information. -- Posted by Seidell at 6:35 pm on July 26, 2006 I believe their is a male birth control out their, and I strongly believe that if couples do not want a baby, men should also, as well, take the pill once it comes out on the market.       http://www.askmen.com/love/dzimmer_60/72_love_answers.html http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3543478/ http://health.howstuffworks.com/male-bc-pill.htm -- Posted by Seidell at 6:37 pm on July 26, 2006 Quote: from 4est at 5:51 pm on July 26, 2006 Another possible discussion question: Does your school make it easy to get condoms?   For instance, at my school, in the nurses office there is a big bowl full of condoms people can take. Oh jesus, so THATS why people pretend to get sick during the day just so that they can see the nurse, thats like saying "happy fucking, take all you want, thank you come again!" lol (Edited by Seidell at 6:41 pm on July 26, 2006) -- Posted by penguincube at 6:44 pm on July 26, 2006 Main reason why male birth control is not effective: "Yeah, baby, of course i took my pill, now lets go get funky" -- Posted by WaterNymph at 8:30 pm on July 26, 2006 1. I'm using Yasmin (pill). I've been using it for nearly six months and I have no complaints. It's actually helped regulated my period and make it shorter so life has been pretty good since I started taking it. 2. I think the best form for teenagers to use is TWO forms of contraceptive. 3. I don't think we should skip doctors appointments. I know when I went to get my pill I had to have a pap smear and a urine test done and I think thats good because they were able to make sure everything was okay. I think the system we have here for getting birth control is fine. I don't really think there's an easier way, really. -- Posted by Melania2006 at 8:15 am on July 27, 2006 Discussion Questions   1. What contraception are you currently using? Are you happy with it or have you had side effects?   I take Ortho-Tricyclen Lo. I am pretty happy with it. My period is very consistent...I always know what day I will start. I had some nausea at first, but I am fine now. 2. Which do you consider the best for teenagers to use? Definately the pill along with other methods because the last thing we need is teen mothers. Teens need to go on with school and life, and have a family when they can focus on the family.   3. Do you think birth control should be easier to get? Should we skip doctor appointments? Should it be free?   It was very easy for me to get. I made an appointment at Planned Parenthood, they had me fill out a form, and then they discussed the pill, birth control, and sex with me so that I understood how the pill works. I think the appointment should be neccessary. Also, I was very happy that I did not have to get an exam. Cost-wise, I wish it was cheaper. I pay $20 a month. Free would be great, but cheaper would be good too. Does your school make it easy to get condoms? Ummm...I don't ever remember them offering them except once in health class when a lady came to talk about STD's. -- Posted by senorita smirnoff at 3:07 am on July 29, 2006 1. levelen LD (i think) and its a "the pill" its been very good for me, no pain, and i just have my period when it suits me. 2. i think for teenagers, condom is the most important to prevent stds, and they are very easy to get and keep secret from parents if need be, while stll allowing safe sex. ideally tho all couples would be on the pill and have condoms for extra safty if they feel it is needed. 3. i think the pill is as easy to get as should be. u need to go ot the doctors because there are different pills for different people, and they also make sure that u understand about possible effects, how it works and about safe sex in general. as fot the cost, well in aus the one im using is only 20 for 4 months supply -- Posted by midnightcritter at 5:40 pm on July 29, 2006 1. I'm on the pill. Low-Ogestrel. Or something like that. I was on another one before this, but I kept having spotting. With this one, I don't have any cramps, but my period is darker. Other than that, no side effects. Not very much bloating, either. 2. Teenagers should use condoms, providing they know how to use it. This is a guide on how to use them. I think teens should also use another birth control method, such as the girl using the pill. The safer you are, the better. 3. I think birth control should be a little cheaper. A pack of pills a month costs me about $27 with insurance; I don't even want to think about how much it is without it. With the doctor appointments, we should still keep them. What if we develop a serious side effect? The doctor is there to answer any questions. He or she should also know your history too (any cancer in your family, high blood pressure, heart problems, etc) just in case. -- Posted by sydneysue13 at 1:44 pm on July 31, 2006 Quote: from penguincube at 9:44 pm on July 26, 2006 Main reason why male birth control is not effective: "Yeah, baby, of course i took my pill, now lets go get funky" That is what I was thinking. -- Posted by dragonking at 4:03 pm on July 31, 2006 The pill seems to be very bad if it makes a woman not have desire to have sex which it's supposed to make it safe to do without getting pregnant.  I think condom would be the best out of those choices.  It's the most natural. -- Posted by whytetyger101 at 9:06 pm on Aug. 3, 2006 Quote: from Artistic Drain at 7:51 pm on July 26, 2006 I just started TriCyclen Lo. $20 a month, no complaints yet. I really do not go well with condoms though, I must be allergic to latex. They kill my vagina everytime! They have non-latex condoms. Look in a pharmacy. -- Posted by Artistic Drain at 9:09 pm on Aug. 3, 2006 Quote: from whytetyger101 at 12:06 am on Aug. 4, 2006 Quote: from Artistic Drain at 7:51 pm on July 26, 2006 I just started TriCyclen Lo. $20 a month, no complaints yet.    I really do not go well with condoms though, I must be allergic to latex. They kill my vagina everytime! They have non-latex condoms. Look in a pharmacy. Meh. I am perfectly fine without using condoms. I am in a trustworthy relationship and old enough to make the decision not to use condoms. -- Posted by OpethGirl69 at 7:40 pm on Aug. 5, 2006 Wait, it's 20 Canadian dollars a month? (Edited by OpethGirl69 at 10:41 pm on Aug. 5, 2006) -- Posted by Artistic Drain at 7:53 pm on Aug. 5, 2006 Yes, ma'am. But the exchange rate is so low, that it is almost equal. So $20USD/CND. -- Posted by GossipChick514 at 9:20 pm on Aug. 6, 2006 Quote: from OpethGirl69 at 6:08 pm on July 26, 2006 You neglect to mention male birth control, which is available and said to be 100% effective. there is male birth control!! that is kinda kool! wow tell me more -- Posted by Hoop Jargon at 7:36 pm on Aug. 8, 2006 I believe the only form of contraceptive to be used should be the condom.  The Pill I believe is 'fools gold' in the sense people will think that they are totally safe with it,  but even though the rate of failure on the pill is quite low it doesn't protect the spread of Sexual Diseases,  it's basically hormone therapy the pill causes mood turns and it effectively shuts down your reproductive system which I don't believe is good by any means.   -- Posted by Artistic Drain at 8:29 pm on Aug. 8, 2006 Quote: from Hoop Jargon at 10:36 pm on Aug. 8, 2006 I believe the only form of contraceptive to be used should be the condom.  The Pill I believe is 'fools gold' in the sense people will think that they are totally safe with it,  but even though the rate of failure on the pill is quite low it doesn't protect the spread of Sexual Diseases,  it's basically hormone therapy the pill causes mood turns and it effectively shuts down your reproductive system which I don't believe is good by any means.   It is no longer very risky and is perfect for anyone in a serious/trusting relationship. Or anyone who is sensitive to latex. It does not shut down your reproductive system and will not make you infertile or anything. You are correct that it does not protect against diseases and infections. But if you are in a trusting relationship, that shouldn't be a problem. -- Posted by MagicalKisses at 9:57 am on Aug. 13, 2006 None to be honest. going pill soon :) -- Posted by Spice at 11:02 am on Aug. 13, 2006 1. What contraception are you currently using? Are you happy with it or have you had side effects?   I am using Microgynon 30 - a pill. Me and my boyfriend do not use condoms. I'm quite happy with it - though I do feel my mood swings are worse on it. Which annoys me. 2. Which do you consider the best for teenagers to use?   For those in long term relationships, just the pill if they're comfortable with that. For those not, pill and condom ... both should be responsible for contraception 3. Do you think birth control should be easier to get? Should we skip doctor appointments? Should it be free?   It is free for me. I live in the UK. But it should be free everywhere if they want to stop so many pregnancies. -- Posted by OpethGirl69 at 9:37 am on Aug. 14, 2006 Quote: from GossipChick514 at 12:20 am on Aug. 7, 2006 Quote: from OpethGirl69 at 6:08 pm on July 26, 2006 You neglect to mention male birth control, which is available and said to be 100% effective. there is male birth control!! that is kinda kool! wow tell me more It's fairly new, and I'm not sure if it's available everywhere in America. In studies, it was shown to be 100% effective, as it lowers the sperm count to 0. The sperm count is back to normal levels about 14 weeks after stopping the pill. Personally, I'd wait like 5 years before taking it, so more research can happen. -- Posted by RedNoir at 2:31 pm on Aug. 17, 2006 The school sends home a letter about condoms. They give out condoms. But if your parnet returns the letter, then u cannot have condoms. If u go to get it they check the list and thenif ur on it, no condoms! As If that's gonna stop students. U can just go to the 99 cent store or to the gas station to get them.   Pages: 1 2 3  Next