A Different Birth Control Contraceptives

There is always the danger that the tablet will not dissolve completely and that contraception protection will thus be inefficient. So the oral contraceptive method is less preferred than others where the barrier to sperm attempting to enter the cervix is more certain. Buyers should also make sure they are buying contraceptive tablets, not feminine hygiene suppositories, which are often, displayed everywhere.

Spermicides are suppositories or contraceptive tablets that are placed in the vagina prior to intercourse. These substances are activated by vaginal secretions and kill sperm to avert pregnancy. If used alone, spermicides are not an effective birth control method as they usually remain combined with other barrier methods of contraception such as condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps and sponges.

The vaginal sponges are a disposable pillow-shaped device which looks like a tampon. Sponges are packed with spermicide and absorb seminal fluid when placed in the vagina. The earliest reference to vaginal sponges as a means of birth control was made in the Ebers Papyrus in 1500 B.C. This primitive vaginal sponge was made of lint and contained acacia and honey. So popular was this contraceptive that it was been used for years. Modern vaginal sponges are made of a different material but work the same way. Aside from blocking and/or absorbing semen, they also kill sperm and prevent pregnancy. The contraceptive device works continuously releasing spermicide for up to 72 hours and in that case additional applications of spermicides are not necessary, even for multiple acts. There are other advantages as well; the vaginal sponge is available without a prescription; unlike a diaphragm, the sponge does not have to be fitted and the sponge can be inserted ahead of time, which allows greater spontaneity. The sponge has been found to be more effective as well.

Since the sponge comes in a size that fits all women, there is no need for professional fitting at a medical person's office. Furthermore, a study of 4,162 women published in the American Journal of Public Health said diaphragms and sponges appear to offer more protection against two sexually transmitted diseases - gonorrhea and trichomoniasis.

Dr. Michael Rosenberg said the incidence of gonorrhea and trichomoniasis was 71 percent and 74 percent lower respectively in women who used these barrier contraceptive methods compared to those who did not use a contraceptive at all.

Rosenberg believes the diaphragm and sponge may be more effective in preventing sexually transmitted diseases than condoms. What is more, one can have worry-free sex for the next 24 hours after using these contraceptives. There is still something about the side effects. Like the spermicide and diaphragm, some women may experience an allergic reaction or irritation. Other complaints are difficulty in removing the sponge if the device is left for more than 18 hours. However, most of these problems very are minor. Cases of local allergic reaction or irritation have been reported; however, these have been infrequent and mild. There is also concern that the vaginal sponge could become a breeding ground for infection, especially if used improperly. Women should consult their doctor about the contraceptive sponge and its proper use before trying this method of birth control.

• John Palsson
• 15/11/2008, 7:15 PM
• 0 Comments