Question

Discuss at least five different types of contraception other than abstinence. For each method:

• describe its mode of action in detail

• indicate its effectiveness in preventing pregnancy

• discuss its pros and cons

Answer 1

1. Condoms

- works by providing a physical barrier between the genitals, barring the passage of sperm

- highly effective in preventing pregnancy when used correctly

- cheap and easy method of contraception, easy to use without side effects or surgery, prevents STDs, but is single use, reduces pleasure, requires a bit of trial and error for new users

2. Vasectomy

- works by removing the passage of sperm into the seminal fluid

- no chances of pregnancy post-vasectomy (requires a period of a few weeks for the old sperm in the pathway to die to become fully effective)

- easy procedure with no chance of pregnancy, but is irreversible and carries some operative risks

3. Emergency contraception

- prevent ovulation and subsequent fertilization

- effective when taken within a certain span of coitus, ineffective if fertilization has already occured

- effective as a backup option, but time span and failure in preventing implantation of fertilized egg keep it from being recommended as a primary solution

4. Withdrawal method

- cheapest and easiest method, involves pulling out phallus before ejaculation

- failure rate higher compared to most other methods

- easy to practice, but hard to achieve due to premature ejaculation, achieving orgasm and many other factors

5. Estrogen-progestin pills ("the pill")

- safe and reliable method to stop ovulation, thereby blocking fertilization

- exteremely effective if the schedule is followed

- effective, cheap but requires a schedule to be followed, can have side effects and is not recommended for all