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Birth Control Sponge – Use, Effectiveness, Benefits and More
Sometimes the common methods of birth control may not work for some women because of certain unpredicted side-effects. In such a case, one can opt for the Vaginal sponge or the Contraceptive sponge. The vaginal sponge is a means of birth control which is reversible. Some women may prefer using a vaginal sponge to avoid pregnancy as it is easily available at most pharmacies without a prescription and is fairly easy to use as well. However, a vaginal sponge when compared to a male condom may not be able to provide any protection against Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) like HIV.
What Is a Contraceptive Sponge?
Contraceptive sponge or the birth control sponge is a doughnut-shaped sponge, about two inches in size. This soft, round vaginal sponge is made from polyurethane foam. The female sponge helps in preventing pregnancy through the blockade and spermicidal methods.
The contraceptive sponge may be inserted deep into the vagina before sex. The sponge forms a protective cover over the cervix and stops the sperm from passing into the uterus. Every cervical sponge has an attached cloth loop which makes it convenient to pull it out. The sponge is not reusable and should be discarded after use.
How Does It Work
The working of the sponge may be similar to that of a diaphragm. The sponge birth control method works in two ways. The sponge has an indentation which allows it to fit tightly against the cervix, creating a protective barrier and obstructing the entry of the sperms into the uterus. The sponge absorbs the semen before it can enter the cervix, the connecting passage between the vagina and uterus.
The vaginal sponge also has spermicide, a sperm-killing substance which prevents sperm from gaining access to an egg. It is essential for women to follow the correct method of insertion and using the sponge before sex. The sponge has to moisten with water before being inserted deeply into the vagina. You can keep the sponge inserted into the vagina for about 24 hrs before intercourse.
After use, you can pull it out with the help of the loop fastened to the sponge. The sponge can be used either in addition to a condom or all by itself. However, using it along with a condom may offer better protection against pregnancy.
Contraceptive Sponge’s Effectiveness
Here is how using a sponge helps avert pregnancy
1.The Effectiveness of Sponge for Preventing Pregnancy
When we talk about birth control, the contraceptive sponge may not be the best method available in the market especially if a woman has given birth once. However, it is vital to use the sponge properly before sex for it to be most effective. Following the product instructions correctly and using it each time before sex may increase its efficiency. But realistically speaking, it may not be entirely possible to use it correctly every time.
If a woman who has not borne a child and accurately uses the sponge, the efficiency rate can be as high as 91%. But realistically it may not be more than 88% effective. But in the case of a woman who has given birth before, the success rate may be less than 80% even if we talk realistically. Therefore, rendering it an unlikely choice of contraception for women with kids.
So, it can safely be assumed that 9 to 11 women out of 100 on an average who use the contraceptive sponge may still get pregnant in a year.
2. Ways to Increase the Effectiveness of a Sponge
One of the ways to increase the effectiveness of sponge can be to use it properly each time before you have sex. Using the sponge consistently every single time before sex may also enhance its efficiency. But a definite way to boost its effectiveness is by using it in combination with another method of contraception like oral contraceptives or the male condom.
Another way can be if your partner does not ejaculate semen inside and pulls out before secreting the semen inside the vagina. Nevertheless, using both the sponge and the male condom together may be the most effective way.
3. Do the Sponges Protect Against STDs?
The sponge cannot offer any protection against STDs. On the contrary, the use of sponge may put you at a greater risk of STDs like HIV. The spermicide sponge effectiveness is considerably reduced because the spermicide which coats the sponge has Nonoxynol-9, a chemical compound that can irritate the vaginal walls and make it more vulnerable to STD germs for them to easily enter the body through the vagina. Therefore it is better to get yourself tested on a regular basis to prevent STDs.
How to Use the Sponge
The correct usage of sponge for effective birth control cannot be stressed enough. The sponge can be fairly easy to use once you get enough practice with it. Inserting a sponge is quite like pushing in a tampon.
1. Contraceptive Sponge Insertion
The following things may be kept in mind while using the sponge:
It is important to wash the hands properly with water and soap before putting in the sponge.
After removing the wrapper of the sponge, moisten it with a little water.
Squeeze the sponge lightly a few times or until it is foamy. The sponge should be entirely wet for the spermicides to get activated.
Take care not to squeeze the sponge dry.
Keeping the indented side of the sponge facing upwards, turn the sides up (like you fold something in half) so that the sponge is long and narrow. The indented side of the sponge should be facing the body’s front side whereas the loop of the sponge should be facing the body’s backside.
Try sitting in a comfortable position like you can balance yourself on a chair’s edge or squat. You can also insert the sponge while lying down or standing with one of your foot placed on a chair.
Push the sponge deep into the vagina with the help of your fingers. Try and slide it as far up as possible. Upon letting go, the sponge will on its own unfold and tightly fit covering the cervix.
Make sure that the sponge is covering the cervix properly by moving your fingers all over and along the edges of the sponge. Also, ensure that the loop is at the sponge’s bottom.
You need not stress over remembering every single detail. All products come with a detailed set of instructions. Following the given directions will help you use the sponge correctly.
2. When Can One Insert the Sponge?
You can put in the sponge for about 24 hours before intercourse. The sponge is ready to use as soon as the spermicide is activated with water and inserted into the vagina. Therefore, birth control can be in place much before you have sex. After the sponge is inside the vagina you can indulge in intercourse any number of times as you may want without any interruptions for the next 24 hours. You need not replace the sponge for that period.
3. How Long Can You Leave a Sponge Inside?
You need to leave the sponge in for a minimum of six hours after intercourse. But be careful not to leave it inside for beyond 30 hours in total. There is no compulsion, however, to leave the sponge inside for total 30 hours, but six hours after sex must be abided by to be on the safer side.
4. Removal of Sponge
After washing your hands carefully, glide a finger into your vagina and fasten it around the loop of the sponge. Then very gently and steadily with the help of the loop pull the sponge out of the vagina. In case you are not able to find the loop of the sponge, you can grasp the sponge itself and slowly slide it out. If you experience difficulty reaching the sponge, push or thrust down with the help of your vaginal muscles while trying to reach for it. Carefully dispose of the used sponge by throwing it in the trash bin and not by flushing it down a toilet.
How Safe Is the Contraceptive Sponge?
The use of the birth control sponge is normally considered safe, but some women can experience certain side-effects.
Some women may not be comfortable with the idea of putting fingers in their vagina.
In some cases, women may find it difficult to insert the sponge inside the vagina properly.
Avoid using the sponge during menstruation.
In case of any doubt regarding its safe usage, it is always advisable to consult your doctor first before using the contraceptive sponge.
What Are the Risks of the Sponge?
If you have the following medical conditions, then the use of the sponge may be avoided:
If you are sensitive or allergic to polyurethane, spermicide, sulfites.
If you have a medical history of TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome)
In case of a recent miscarriage, abortion or birth of a child.
If you are suffering from a vaginal infection.
If there is any sort of vaginal bleeding.
In case you experience any of the below-listed symptoms while using the sponge, discontinue its use and contact a doctor immediately. The signs can be:
An unexpected high fever
Diarrhoea
Vomiting
A red and itchy rash which feels and looks like a sunburn
Pain or irritation in the throat
Sore joints and muscles
Dizziness and weakness
Advantages of the Birth Control Sponge
Many women may like to opt for the birth control sponge because of the following advantages:
Birth control sponge is inexpensive and convenient to carry along because of its small size. It can simply fit into any purse or pocket.
When correctly inserted, you or your partner may hardly feel it.
It may not have any effect on the woman’s natural hormones.
You can use it during breastfeeding.
It can easily be purchased without a prescription from most drugstores.
You can buy it online as well with no difficulty.
The use of the birth control sponge may not require a doctor’s intervention as no invasive surgery or fitting is needed. The user can insert it on her own.
It can offer you pregnancy protection for up to 24 hours.
Birth control sponge provides you with the control because you can place it inside your vagina hours before sex and may leave it until 30 hours after.
The sponge is easy to use and may not cause any inconvenience to either you or your partner.
It is just as easy to discontinue its use. If you wish to get pregnant, then you may not insert the sponge in before intercourse.
After placing the sponge inside your vagina, you can have sex many times for the ensuing 24 hours without replacing the sponge or any other disruptions.
Disadvantages
Like all other methods of birth control, the sponge may also have some disadvantages. Though commonly considered safe to use by most women, a few women have reported contraceptive sponge side effects as well. Some of the disadvantages may be:
Some women may experience inconvenience or difficulty while inserting the sponge into the vagina. It may take considerable practice to learn the skill of correctly using the sponge.
It may happen at times that the loop of the sponge can break midway during the process of pulling it out of the vagina. In such a case, medical intervention becomes necessary to remove the remnants.
The spermicide in the sponge can result in vaginal irritation in some cases.
Sometimes if you are using the sponge, the sex can turn messy or wet because the sponge has to be foamy before you can insert it into your vagina.
The effectiveness of the sponge largely depends on its correct and proper usage every time you have intercourse. In reality, to use the sponge correctly every single time may not be easy. Therefore, one cannot be sure of the effectiveness of the sponge as an efficient method of birth control.
Occasionally the repeated and constant use of the sponge may cause some women to experience certain dryness in the vagina while having sex as the sponge may absorb the vaginal lubricants.
The sponge cannot be used again after having used it once.
You need to use the sponge each time you plan to have not done so may adversely affect its effectiveness.
The sponge can be removed only after six hours after you have had sex. It cannot be inside your vagina for longer than a total of 30 hours.
The sponge does not offer you any protection against sexually transmitted diseases.
The consistent use of the sponge can expose you to a heightened risk for HIV and other such infections as the spermicide in the sponge may irritate the walls of the vagina making it more susceptible to STD germs to invade the body.
Some women may be allergic to Nonoxynol-9, the chemical in the spermicide of the sponge which can result in discomfort and irritation.
Women who use the sponge as a method of birth control are somewhat at risk of getting a rare but dangerous disease called TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome).
The sponge’s spermicide may feel unpleasant if you happen to taste it.
Where Can You Buy It?
The spermicide sponge can be purchased over-the-counter without any prescription from most pharmacies or chemists. The birth control sponge is also available online.
The cost of the contraceptive sponge can differ depending on your place of residence and from where you are purchasing it. But free sponges or low-priced sponges may be available at community health centres or clinics.
It is imperative to use contraceptive sponges correctly and consistently. It is the only way to ascertain its effectiveness as a reliable birth control method. Adhering to the product instructions will help in using the sponge correctly. With practice, one can attain the ease to use it properly. If unsure about using the sponge consistently, you can always choose other methods of birth control which are comparatively easier to use and more dependable like implants or IUDs. In any case, using a male condom along with the sponge will provide you with the best protection against pregnancy and also STDs.
Hence, with lots of other options available, sponges can be opted for when other options are not feasible.
Also Read: Natural Birth Control Method
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How to Get Pregnant Without Having Sex?
Generally, people opt for sexual intercourse without any protection when looking to conceive a child. However, the possibility still remains that the traditional method of conception may not work.
Fertility-related medical conditions can make getting pregnant through intercourse difficult, apart from which several situations may require a different approach to conceiving. Being a single woman or a partner in a same-sex relationship should not deprive anyone of the joys of parenthood. Then, how can you get pregnant without having sex?
There are a number of ways a woman can get pregnant, even without having sexual intercourse. Given that the traditional method of natural conception is not one that is working or one that can be employed, there are enough options to consider to realise your dreams of becoming a parent. Medical advancements have made it possible to conceive and carry a healthy baby full term without intercourse.
Methods of Getting Pregnant Without Intercourse
Some of the ways to get pregnant without sex mentioned below can help you have your baby by becoming pregnant in a ‘different’ way.
1. In-vitro Fertilization
In a few cases, the woman might be healthy enough to carry the baby to term, but fertilisation itself might be an issue. This is where IVF plays a vital role. IVF is available in numerous infertility clinics across the country, and the process is quite straightforward. Medication is administered to boost the woman’s egg production, which is then extracted. The eggs are then placed in conditions where they can be fertilised with the sperm of the woman’s choice. Once an embryo is successfully formed after the fertilisation, a catheter is used to open the uterus and place the embryos inside. Some women tend to feel a little pain and cramping in their abdomen as the embryos attempt to get implanted inside the uterus. This is one of the greats ways to conceive without intercourse, but the process can get expensive.
2. Opting for the ‘Turkey Baster’ Technique
Very few people might be aware of this technique, while numerous others might think of this as a quick and easy method. Mostly adopted by couples of the same gender, this can be compared to artificial insemination. And no, you don’t use an actual turkey baster for this technique!
The steps are rather simple. Sperm needs to be procured from a known person or the sperm bank. An insemination syringe is then used to collect the sperm, which is then inserted inside the vagina of the woman, letting the sperms inseminate within. This is rather painless, and there is no recovery time since this isn’t a medical procedure. Having the pelvic portion tilted upwards for some minutes to stop the sperm from spilling outside is recommended.
Bear in mind that there are some very important points to know when attempting at-home insemination. Before you go through with it, speak with your doctor to understand safety precautions that you must adhere to, do’s and don’ts, and your chances of conception through this method.
Track your period and ensure the dates you are working with are in your fertile period, i.e., close to your ovulation date.
Do not attempt to insert the sperm into the uterus or cervix, as this can be extremely dangerous. Sperm should be inserted only into the vagina.
Use a new, clean, needleless disposable syringe to insert the sperm into the vagina. Collect the semen in a clean, dry receptacle, then pull it into the syringe.
Make sure that there is no air in the syringe, as the introduction of an air bubble may cause an embolism that can be fatal.
Remember that this insemination method does not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases.
3. Insemination Within the Uterus
This is a slightly advanced medical technique, termed as IUI, which is a combination of the turkey baster technique and IVF. This is usually opted for by couples where the male partner’s fertility levels are low or by single women who are fit to have a baby. During ovulation, the egg reaches the uterus, awaiting fertilisation by a sperm. In IUI, the woman chooses the sperm either from a donor or the bank. A medical professional then introduces the sperm right inside the uterus close to the egg using a catheter. The process is similar to that of a Pap smear test. Lying down by tilting the pelvis upwards can help increase the chances of fertilisation. Most women feel only minor cramps, and they can resume their usual lives within no time. However, this process might have to be repeated for a bunch of cycles until it is successful.
4. Splash Pregnancy
At times, a couple may fail to have proper sexual intercourse because of conditions like erectile dysfunction or vaginismus faced by a man and woman, respectively. This makes it either difficult to have intercourse or painful. However, there is still a way for the couple to try and get pregnant. Many young adults are advised to use protection because even the slightest exposure of sperm to the vagina can cause a woman to get pregnant. This is exactly what a couple can try and use to their advantage by trying to have an ejaculation as close to the vagina as possible. Some women can bear penetration up to a certain depth. This is even better since ejaculation can take place inside the vagina, and the woman can tilt her pelvis upwards to increase the chances of conception.
Success using this method is random, but you can always choose to do this before opting for any other methods.
5. Having a Surrogate Carry the Baby
In some couples, one or both partners may be infertile, or the woman might not have a uterus strong enough to hold the baby. But couples tend to want a baby of their own. This can be achieved via surrogacy. The sperm of the male and the female eggs are combined in a laboratory environment to allow fertilisation and the formation of an embryo. This embryo is then placed in the womb of a willing surrogate, who will carry the baby for the duration of the pregnancy and then hand it over to the original parents. Surrogacy, of course, is an expensive option with fees and other expenses to be taken into account.
Now, it certainly is up for debate whether you would ‘technically’ be pregnant if you have a surrogate carrying your baby. But no doubt, you will most certainly have a baby that will be your very own in every way.
Legal Precautions That Everyone Should Know
It is strongly discouraged to attempt at-home insemination with a sperm donor, whether the donor is known or unknown. In many jurisdictions, insemination without the involvement of a medical professional may not be legally recognized in court.
Even if there is a written and signed contract, the sperm donor could potentially assert parental rights, and the individual giving birth to the child might have legal grounds to pursue child support payments from the donor.
If you are considering this process with someone other than your legally married partner, seeking advice from a reproductive lawyer before proceeding is crucial. The information provided here is not intended as legal advice, and any actions taken are at your own risk.
FAQs
1. How Many Drops of Sperm Is Needed to Get Pregnant?
Only a single sperm is needed to fertilize a woman’s egg. However, it’s essential to understand that for every sperm that successfully reaches the egg, millions of others do not.
2. What Causes Sperm to Die in Female Body?
Various factors can cause sperm to die in the female body. These include exposure to acidic vaginal pH, cervical mucus acting as a barrier, the immune system attacking foreign sperm, and some sperm not surviving the journey through the female reproductive tract to reach the egg.
Now that you have read how to get pregnant without a man or without penetration, you know about the benefits and costs associated with it. Intercourse might not be a choice or a possibility in a few cases, and this is where medical science can come to your rescue. However, if none of these methods seem to work, it is best to keep yourself open for adoption as well, as that can also provide you with the joy of becoming a parent.
References/Resources:
1. Can you get pregnant without having sex?; .plannedparenthood.org; https://www.plannedparenthood.org/blog/can-u-get-pregnant-without-having-sex
2. Is there any other way to get pregnant besides sex?; youngwomenshealth.org; https://youngwomenshealth.org/askus/is-there-any-other-way-to-get-pregnant-besides-sex/
3. How pregnancy happens; bodytalk.org.au; https://bodytalk.org.au/how-it-works/conception-how-pregnancy-happens/
4. In vitro fertilization (IVF); medlineplus.gov; https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007279.htm.
5. Are there any other ways to get pregnant besides sex?; plannedparenthood.org; https://www.plannedparenthood.org/blog/are-there-any-other-ways-to-get-pregnant-besides-sex
Also Read:
Best Sex Positions To Get Pregnant Faster
How Many Times to Have Sex in a Day to Get Pregnant
Read more
Pregnancy Blood Test – How Does It Work?
If you and your spouse were planning to start a family and suspect that you are pregnant, chances are that you’ve already taken a home pregnancy test (1). If the test says positive, then you must be ecstatic. But the journey has just begun. You will now have to see a doctor to confirm your pregnancy. The doctor will suggest a blood test for the same. The best way to confirm a pregnancy is via a blood test. Pregnancy blood tests are also done in the early stages of pregnancy to ensure a healthy and happy journey into parenthood.
What Is a Blood Pregnancy Test?
A blood pregnancy test is done to determine whether a woman is carrying a child or not. It is the first step in the journey of parenthood.
Several factors are accounted for in a blood pregnancy test:
A urine test which can be taken at home whereas a blood pregnancy test needs to be taken by a specialist in a clinic or a diagnostic centre.
A blood pregnancy test is taken to know for sure if a woman is pregnant.
It is used to test for the levels of hCG or pregnancy hormone in the body which only elevates if you are pregnant.
To take this test, some amount of blood sample is extracted from the woman and then tested for hCG.
The hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is detected around 10-11 days after conception (2).
Why Should You Choose a Blood Test to Confirm Pregnancy?
While it is easy to take a home pregnancy test which is a urine-based test, it is not always accurate as the time period from conception to the time of next menstruation is not clear. A blood test gives the exact result and also helps to identify and confirm the pregnancy early.
Types of Blood Tests to Check Pregnancy
There are two types of blood tests used to determine pregnancy. Depending on when it is taken, it could either be a negative blood pregnancy test or a positive blood pregnancy test.
The two types of blood pregnancy tests are (3):
Qualitative hCG Blood Test – This is to know if the pregnancy hormone is being produced in the body or not.
Quantitative hCG Blood Test – This test is done 48 hours apart to determine a specific level of HCG to be measured in the body.
Qualitative Blood Serum Test
There is a procedure called venepuncture which is used to extract the blood sample from the vein for a qualitative blood test to check for pregnancy. It is instant and is only done once to detect the level of hCG in the blood.
Quantitative Blood Serum Test
A venepuncture is used in this type of test as well to detect pregnancy and blood is drawn twice in a span of 48-72 hours to check for pregnancy. This test also looks for hCG levels in the blood and is more accurate as there is a waiting window before the next test in case of a false negative result the first time.
How Is the Test Performed?
The pregnancy blood test is performed by a technician or nurse who first draws blood from a vein which is usually located by identifying in the forearm or hand (4). The blood is collected by using a syringe or vial. The blood test is usually performed at a separate diagnostics lab and then sent to a doctor, or you may have to go collect the reports. The test usually identifies and determines the level of HCG or pregnancy hormone in the blood.
How Are the Test Results Interpreted?
Results from a quantitative hCG test can showcase raising levels of hCG in the first trimester of pregnancy and then it starts to decline.
Some interpretations of the test are:-
The presence of more than one fetus, i.e. twins or triplets
If there is a sign of ovarian cancer
Non-cancerous tumours of the uterus
Infection or malignant tumour of the uterus
If the levels of hCG are less than normal, it can also indicate
Possible death of the foetus
An incomplete or complete miscarriage
An ectopic pregnancy
How Accurate Are Pregnancy Blood Test Results?
The blood pregnancy tests are 98-99% accurate if they are performed around 7 days after ovulation, a week prior to the period being due. Although there are chances of false-negative results and false-positive results too.
False-negative results
This means that you are actually pregnant, but the test results show that you are not. This usually occurs if the test is taken too early, i.e. it is difficult to detect the levels of HCG in the blood thereby leading to a negative. If you think this is not an accurate result and you feel pregnant, you should repeat the test within 48-72 hours.
False-positive results
This means that you are not pregnant and the test has shown that you are which is a rarity. This result can happen if you are under certain medication or have a certain medical condition which causes a higher level of hCG (5).
Medication That Can Affect the Accuracy of the Results
There are several medications that can affect the accuracy of a blood test taken for pregnancy. Some of them are listed below:
Hypnotics – Prescription of sleep medication can affect levels of hCG.
Promethazine – A medication used to treat allergic symptoms, colds, coughs or motion sickness can increase or decrease levels of hCG.
Medication to prevent seizures.
Any medicines are taken to treat Parkinson’s disease.
Any prescription that contains hCG like Pregnyl, APL, Profasi, Chorex, Novarel, or Ovidrel
Phenothiazine drugs such as Chlorpromazine or Thorazine
How Soon Can Blood Test Detect Pregnancy?
If you are wondering how soon can a blood test detect pregnancy after conception, or if you and your partner have been trying to have a child and you feel like you could be pregnant, it is time to take a blood test to detect pregnancy right after you miss your first period (6).
HCG, which is produced when the implantation in the placenta takes place, can be detected in the blood as early as 10 days after a missed period. This is when you know when to take a blood pregnancy test.
The levels of hCG rise exponentially during the first two months of pregnancy. The rapid shift in the hormones makes it easy to detect pregnancy through a blood test 10-12 days after conception.
If you have taken a blood test to determine pregnancy, you will have to wait a day or two for the reports to arrive from the diagnostics centre.
In the early stages of pregnancy, blood is drawn at least 48 hours apart to determine hCG. The hormone doubles every 48 hours so reading will be accurate if you are pregnant.
Risks of Taking a Pregnancy Test Using Blood
Nowadays, the risks involved in taking blood-based pregnancy tests are next to none as it is quite regulated. Some of the risks are
The biggest risk of taking a blood test for pregnancy is false positive which can occur due to different medications being taken by the mother
Light bruising where the needle is inserted
Lightheadedness
Fainting (rare)
Infection (rare)
Haematoma which happens when the blood accumulates under the skin.
Can a Blood Pregnancy Test Be Wrong?
If you get an early pregnancy blood test, the chances are that they may be sometimes false even if you are pregnant.
Blood tests are usually 98-99% accurate as it takes time for the pregnancy hormone to rise in the blood, depending on the time from the date of conception.
However, medication and many other factors could affect the accuracy of the test. It is always good to take the test again in 10 days time if you still haven’t got your periods.
Situations where women are on fertility drugs, the test will show a false positive where it detects hCG levels present due to the treatments.
Can You Perform This Test at Home?
A blood pregnancy test needs to be taken at a gynaecologist’s clinic or at a diagnostics centre and cannot be taken at home.
FAQs
1. Can extreme stress or anxiety affect hCG levels in a pregnancy blood test?
No, stress or anxiety does not directly impact hCG levels. hCG is produced by the placenta, and its levels are not influenced by emotional states. However, stress may indirectly affect pregnancy health in other ways.
This was all about pregnancy tests through blood. If you have an intuition that you could be pregnant, you can take a home pregnancy test or a urine test initially. But you must get a blood test done to confirm the pregnancy. It is also important to mentally prepare oneself for the journey of parenthood as it’s a big responsibility.
References/Resources:
1. Home pregnancy tests: Can you trust the results?; Mayo Clinic; https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/home-pregnancy-tests/art-20047940
2. Human Chorionic Gonadotropin; Cleveland Clinic; https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22489-human-chorionic-gonadotropin
3. Pregnancy testing; Better Health Channel; https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/pregnancy-testing
4. HCG blood test – qualitative; Mount Sinai; https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/tests/hcg-blood-test-qualitative
5. Causes of a False Positive Pregnancy Test; Cleveland Clinic; https://health.clevelandclinic.org/false-positive-pregnancy-test
6. How early can home pregnancy tests show positive results?; UT Southwestern Medical Center; https://utswmed.org/medblog/home-pregnancy-tests/
Also Read:
Faint Line on Pregnancy Test
How to Test for Pregnancy With Salt?
Urine Pregnancy Test – At Home and Clinic
Digital Pregnancy Test – How Does It Works?
Right Time and Way to Take Pregnancy Test
Read more
Diaphragm Contraceptive – A Birth Control Method
A dependable means of contraception is something every couple should spend some time on identifying, as it helps them take control of when they want to have children, besides protecting both partners from sexually transmitted diseases. A diaphragm or female contraceptive device is fast becoming popular for its convenience, affordability and reliability. Read on for all you need to know about it.
What Is a Diaphragm?
A diaphragm is one of the methods of contraception used by women. It is a dome-shaped device made of silicone, latex or rubber, which you may insert into your vagina before having sex to prevent pregnancy. The diaphragm covers your cervix and blocks sperm from entering the cervix. A diaphragm should be used along with spermicidal jelly or cream, which is effective in killing the sperms that reach the rim of the diaphragm.
Is the Diaphragm Safe?
The diaphragm is an extremely safe form of female contraceptive. However, if you notice the following symptoms, you should get in touch with your doctor:
If you feel uncomfortable after using the diaphragm.
If you feel a burning sensation after you pee.
If you notice your vagina is itchy or sore to touch.
If you notice any bleeding after using a diaphragm.
If you notice any unusual discharge from your vagina.
Effectiveness of a Diaphragm
The diaphragm is an extremely safe form of female contraceptive. If the diaphragm is used correctly and regularly, it is effective in 94% of the cases. This means that there is a 6% chance of pregnancy, even if a diaphragm is used correctly. This happens because most people do not follow the directions properly or use it every time during sex. Therefore, it is important to use it correctly to make it more effective.
How to Make Diaphragm More Effective?
Place your diaphragm before you have sex.
Use your diaphragm every time you have sex.
Use spermicidal gel or cream with your diaphragm.
Place your diagram correctly to cover your cervix.
You may also use another method of contraception with it, such as a condom, or your partner may pull out before ejaculation.
Who Can Opt for a Diaphragm?
All women can opt for a diaphragm as an effective method of birth control. However, if you have medical conditions such as vaginal infection, UTI, unusually shaped cervix or other such conditions, you should refrain from using diaphragm. It is advised to seek your doctor’s advice before opting for any method of contraceptive.
How to Insert a Diaphragm?
You may insert a diaphragm in your vagina in many positions, such as standing, sitting, squatting or lying down position. Once you get into the position, you may follow these steps on how to use a diaphragm:
Clean your hands using water and soap.
Take some spermicidal gel or cream and rub it off the diaphragm.
Make use of one hand to open up your vagina and the other hand to fold the diaphragm in half, with the dome pointing downwards.
Push the diaphragm as far as you can into your vagina. You may aim towards the tailbone while pushing.
Make use of your finger to tuck the rim of the diaphragm behind your pelvic bone. The diaphragm should be covering your cervix, which feels like the tip of your nose.
You can put your diaphragm in two hours before having sex. It is advisable to reapply spermicidal gel if you are having sex later than two hours after inserting the diaphragm, as the spermicidal gel or cream loses its efficacy after two hours. If you have sex again before taking out the diaphragm, it is advised to reapply spermicidal gel or cream again. You should not leave your diaphragm inside your vagina for more than 24 hours.
How to Remove a Diaphragm?
It is recommended to keep the diaphragm in place for almost 6 hours after sex. However, a diaphragm should not be kept in the vagina for more than 24 hours. Taking out or removing a diaphragm is comparatively easier, here’s what you need to do:
Insert a finger into your vagina and hook over the top of the rim. This would break the suction.
You may gently pull out down your diaphragm.
How to Take Care of the Diaphragm?
Here’s what you should do to take care of your diaphragm:
You should wash it with mild soap and warm water after every use.
You should let it dry.
You should refrain from using any powder on your diaphragm as it may lead to infections.
You should not use oil-based products such as Vaseline or other creams, as they may damage your diaphragm.
You should store it in a clean place, away from direct sunlight and heat.
You should check for any holes, cracks or wrinkles.
Where Can You Get a Diaphragm, and How Much Does It Cost?
You may get a diaphragm at any drugstore, pharmacy or health centre. You will need a prescription from your doctor or nurse to buy a diaphragm, as it does not come in one size that fits all. The doctor or the nurse has to do a pelvic examination to check the size of your diaphragm. On average, a diaphragm may cost about Rs. 50. It will need to be used with a spermicide cream which may cost around Rs. 500.
Advantages of Diaphragm
Using a diaphragm has many advantages. Some of the advantages include:
You can insert it hours before intercourse.
You can control this method of contraception without your partner’s support.
You can easily use the same diaphragm for up to two or more years.
You need to use it only when you want to have sex.
It has fewer side effects as they do not contain hormones.
It does not hamper your menstrual cycle.
Disadvantages of Diaphragm
There are some risk factors or disadvantages associated with diaphragm usage, such as:
Using spermicidal gels can be a messy affair and may cause irritation.
It needs to be used every time you have sex, and you need to use it correctly.
It can trigger allergic reactions because of rubber or spermicidal gel.
It may irritate the bladder and can cause infection.
It is difficult to use for women who are not comfortable with touching their vagina.
The size of your diaphragm may keep changing due to changes in your body (childbirth, weight gain, etc.).
Do All Diaphragms Come in the Same Size?
No, all diaphragms do not come in the same size. Your doctor will help you know the size of your diaphragm after conducting a pelvic examination. Your doctor may use various fitting rings or diaphragms to establish the correct size for you. You may also be told about the correct technique of using the diaphragm.
Does a Diaphragm Protect Against STDs?
A diaphragm provides effective protection from pregnancy and some toxins, such as nicotine, that may be found in your partner’s sperms by covering the cervix. However, diaphragms are not effective in protecting against STDs or STIs, including HIV, as the mucus membrane of the vagina is fully exposed to the infections during sex. It is recommended to use a condom along with a diaphragm to get maximum protection against STDs.
Can You Use a Diaphragm While Breastfeeding?
Yes, you may use a diaphragm while breastfeeding your baby. Unlike contraceptive pills, it does not rely on hormones and thus does not affect your breast milk production. It is a great choice for contraception for breastfeeding mothers.
How Soon After Childbirth You Can Use Diaphragm?
You may use a diaphragm as early as six weeks after giving birth if your vaginal muscles are strong enough to hold the diaphragm. To check the strength of your vaginal muscles, you may seek advice or help from your doctor. If your vaginal muscles are still weak, you may have to wait longer to use diaphragm.
You may have to get a new diaphragm for yourself after childbirth, as there may be a change in size. In the meantime, you may use other methods of contraception.
What Do You Do If the Diaphragm Is Disloged During Sex?
If, during intercourse, your diaphragm becomes dislodged, then there is a substantial risk of pregnancy. You may insert more spermicidal cream or jelly inside your vagina immediately after sex. However, this may not be the sure-shot way of preventing pregnancy. The most effective way of preventing pregnancy in this case will be using an emergency contraceptive. It is recommended to use it as soon as possible. It is best to seek assistance from your doctor if you have concerns regarding pregnancy.
How to Know When You Need a New Diaphragm?
A diaphragm can be used for up to two years if it is in a good state. It is important that you check it regularly for any signs of deterioration. If you notice any cracks, holes or wrinkles on it, it is advised to change it. You should carry your diaphragm with you for your annual medical checkups.
It is recommended to get your diaphragm checked if you have gained weight or undergone pelvic surgery, abortion or childbirth, as these may result in a change in the size or shape of your cervix.
Can You Use Diaphragm During Periods?
No, it is not recommended to use a diaphragm during your periods or if you are experiencing any vaginal bleeding. This is because the usage of a diaphragm during your periods may increase your chances of having toxic shock syndrome, which is a fatal medical condition.
Can You Use Diaphragm If You Are Using Vaginal Medicines?
If you are using vaginal medicines, then you should refrain from using rubber diaphragms. Vaginal creams and ointments usually contain oil-based ingredients, and these ingredients may damage the diaphragm made of rubber or latex. However, you may use a diaphragm made of silicon, or you may use other methods of contraception.
Who Should Avoid Using Diaphragm?
A diaphragm birth control can be used by most women; however, it may not be suitable for you, or you should avoid using a diaphragm under the following circumstances:
If your vaginal muscles are weak, are cannot hold the female diaphragm in its proper place (mostly because of childbirth)
If you have had recurrent bouts of urinary tract infection or UTI.
If your cervix has an unusual shape or you find it difficult to place the diaphragm.
If you have a vaginal infection
If you are allergic to silicon or spermicidal cream or gel
If you have had toxic shock syndrome
If you find it uncomfortable and tedious
If you have had an abortion (in the last 6 weeks)
If you or your partner has HIV or AIDS
A diaphragm is a barrier method of birth control. Though there are no major side effects associated with its usage, if left in the body for more than 24 hours, it may lead to toxic shock syndrome. If you register any pain, discomfort or bleeding after using a diaphragm, it is recommended to seek immediate medical help.
References/Resources:
1. Contraceptive diaphragm or cap; NHS; https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/contraceptive-diaphragm-or-cap/
2. Diaphragm; Planned Parenthood; https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/diaphragm
3. Contraceptive Diaphragm; Family Planning Australia; https://www.fpnsw.org.au/factsheets/individuals/contraception/contraceptive-diaphragm
4. Vaginal Diaphragm; Cleveland Clinic; https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/23427-vaginal-diaphragm
5. Diaphragm (contraceptive device); Health Direct; https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/diaphragm-contraceptive-device
6. Diaphragm; NHS Inform; https://www.nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/contraception/diaphragm
7. Birth Control: How to Use Your Diaphragm; American Academy of Family Physicians; https://familydoctor.org/birth-control-how-to-use-your-diaphragm/
8. Contraception – diaphragms; Better Health; https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/contraception-diaphragms
9. Barrier Methods of Birth Control: Spermicide, Condom, Sponge, Diaphragm, and Cervical Cap; ACOG; https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/barrier-methods-of-birth-control-spermicide-condom-sponge-diaphragm-and-cervical-cap
10. Allen. R. E; Diaphragm Fitting; American Family Physician.; https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2004/0101/p97.html; January 2004
11. Diaphragm; Contraception Choices; https://www.contraceptionchoices.org/contraceptive-method/diaphragm
Also Read:
Contraceptive Implant
Oral Contraceptive Pills
Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill (COCP)
Read more
Oral Contraceptive Pills
A couple who is not planning to have a baby soon may consider birth control. Birth control is a way to prevent unwanted pregnancy and there are many options in birth control to choose from, oral contraceptive pills being one. Contraceptive pills when taken in accordance with the menstrual cycle, can help prevent an unwanted pregnancy. Scientific advancements have made contraceptive pills an effective, safe, and affordable method of birth control. Read on for more information on contraceptive pills or birth control pills.
What Are Birth Control Pills?
Birth control pills are pregnancy prevention pills (also known as Oral Contraceptive Pills or OCPs) which contain the female hormones, namely estrogen, progesterone, or both in fixed doses. These pills are devised to manipulate the hormonal levels during each menstrual cycle to prevent ovulation, and hence pregnancy.
Types of Contraceptive Pills
Various forms of hormonal contraceptive pills are now available commercially. Most tablets contain either progestin (progesterone) alone or a combination of progestin with estrogen in a fixed proportion.
1. Progestin-only Pills
Progestin-only pills or POP contain only progestin (a synthetic form of the human natural hormone progesterone) and have no estrogen content. POPs need to be taken orally on all days of the normal menstrual cycle. Since a normal menstrual cycle lasts 28 days, these pills are available in blister packs of 28 tablets. However, these pills are also available in 21-day packs. Unlike certain other formulations, one needs to consume these tablets on a regular and daily basis for optimum results. Taken as prescribed, you should ideally get your next period 28 days from the day you took your first pill of the blister pack. You might experience irregular cycles or abnormal spotting in the initial few months, discuss this with your doctor. POPs are associated with fewer side effects due to the absence of estrogen, like weight gain, etc.
2. Combination Pills
Combination pills contain progestin as well as estrogen.
These pills are further classified according to the dose and proportion of progestin hormone, as follows:
Mono-phasic Pill: Fixed estrogen and progestin dose.
Bi-phasic Pill: Fixed estrogen, while progestin dose is increased halfway through the cycle.
Tri-phasic Pill: Three different doses of estrogen and progestin that change every seven days.
Four phasic Pill: Offer four different doses of estrogen and progestin in a 28-day course.
Ninety-One Day Pill: Contain a fixed dose of estrogen and progestin for 84 days.
These pills are available in 28-day or 21-day blister packs. Like other formulations, these combination pills are initiated with the beginning of the menstrual period and continued till you get your next cycle. The only difference in the 21-day blister pack, is that only the first 21 tablets contain the active hormones, while the last seven tablets are ‘dummy’ tablets with no active medication. The purpose of these seven blank tablets is to keep you in the habit of taking daily pills and also provide a ‘pill-free period’ to curtail the unwanted side effects of estrogen. If taken time to time as advised, each blister pack should last for 28 days of your menstrual cycle, and you should ideally get your menses in the last week of the course, while you are taking the dummy tablets.
Since oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) are associated with irregular menses, you might not get your periods on time as expected. Consult your gynaecologist regarding the same. Continuous minimal spotting might be noticed in a few women while on OCPs.
3. Emergency Contraceptive Pill
These pills contain low doses of levonorgestrel (an estrogen analogue) and are supposed to be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sexual intercourse to prevent pregnancy.
Deciding the Pill Type
Based on your physical parameters and hormonal or menstrual response, your gynaecologist may put you on either a combination pill or a progestin-only pill course. The response to different pill regimens is subjective for different women, and compliance for these medications is the best tool to decide which type of OCP is best suited for you.
How Safe Are Birth Control Pills?
Generally, oral contraceptive pills are safe for most women with no existing medical conditions or long-term medications. However, there are certain conditions in which your doctor would adjust the dose or might advise another method of contraception to avoid side effects and drug interactions.
Following is a list of conditions and medications in which case you might have to avoid OCPs:
OCPs are avoided during pregnancy and the initial few weeks after delivery. Pregnancy itself is a natural method of contraception, so if you are pregnant, there is no way your body can conceive another child, and you don’t need contraception. The initial 4-6 weeks after delivery when you are exclusively breastfeeding, OCPs are better avoided.
A history of past or pre-existing cardiac problems, such as coronary diseases, heart failure, or valvular conditions.
Long bone fractures, morbid obesity, stroke, or bedridden conditions, predisposing to venous thrombosis in the lower limbs.
Hereditary coagulation disorders.
Long-standing or complicated hypertension or diabetes mellitus.
Connective tissue diseases, like systemic lupus erythematosus.
Hepatic or liver malignancy, chronic liver disease.
Patients on long-term warfarin, or anti-epileptic drugs.
When Can You Start Taking the Pill?
You can start taking contraceptive pills with your doctor’s advice as the type of pills depends on whether you are breastfeeding. For breastfeeding mothers, POPs are prescribed. You may also abstain from sexual intercourse or choose another method of contraception like condoms during this period. Once your menstruation resumes, it confirms that you aren’t already pregnant (if you have had unsafe sex) and also that you are ready to ovulate like you used to before pregnancy. It is then safe to begin oral contraceptives on the first day of your menstruation. Since OCPs are not effective in preventing pregnancy from day one, it is advisable to continue barrier contraception for the first few days or a week, as a backup plan after starting OCPs.
Will You Need Any Backup Method?
To ensure safety against pregnancy, it is advisable to use another reliable method of contraception for at least 7-8 days after initiating oral contraceptive pills. Your partner may use a condom, since it has good results in birth control, besides protecting both of you from sexually transmitted diseases. Using a backup method definitely has an additive effect and raises the success rate of birth control when compared to a single method.
How Do Contraceptive Pills Work?
Oral contraceptive pills mainly work either by one or both of the following mentioned mechanisms:
Ovulation Prevention: Ovulation is the formation and release of a mature ovum or egg from the ovaries of a female. It usually occurs on the 14th day of the menstrual cycle. The human sperm has a shelf life of around four days in the female genital tract, while the ovum lives for just 12-124 hours only. If unprotected sexual intercourse has taken place during this period of ovulation, the deposited sperm fertilises the mature ovum or egg. OCPs prevent ovulation by manipulating hormonal levels of estrogen, progesterone and hence Leutinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) which mainly control ovulation.
Spermicidal Properties: OCPs thicken the cervical mucosa and create an acidic medium in the tract, which makes it unfavourable for the entry and survival of the sperm in the female genital tract.
How Soon Do the Pills Start Working?
Combination pills started exactly on the first day of your menstruation, offer immediate protection against pregnancy. However, if the pill isn’t started alongside your menstruation, it may take up to seven days for it to offer protection. It is advisable to either refrain from intercourse or use a condom while having sex during this period.
Women who have started on the POP or Progestin-only pill should either wait or use a backup method like condoms for the first two days for the pills to offer reliable protection. Also, if you miss a POP, better use a barrier for the next two days with your following pills.
How to Take Birth Control Pills
Birth control and contraception should be discussed with your partner and your doctor to help you choose the best suitable option. Once you are motivated to use OCPs, you should follow your doctor’s prescription. Also, carefully read the user instructions with the blister packs. You should have extra blister packs, condoms, and emergency contraceptive pills always available with you.
Based on whether you have been given the 21-day or 28-day course, beginning on day 1 of your menstrual period, you can start taking one oral tablet daily and continuously. The idea is to deliver active hormone in pills on the first 21 days of your cycle. The remaining seven tablets are usually blank, sugar tablets, or in some cases may contain low dose progesterone.
It is essential that you take the tablets regularly, preferably at the same time every day, irrespective of the frequency of sexual intercourse during the course. Unless you have unbearable symptoms, like vomiting, gastritis or diarrhoea, or any of the red-flag signs described, do not discontinue the tablets in the middle of the course, as this may expose you to the risk of pregnancy.
Consult your doctor for any side effects due to the tablets. You may compensate for an isolated missed dose by repeating it as early as possible before the next dose. If you have been regular and compliant with your OCP regimen, you should mostly get your next menstrual bleeding started at the end of 28 days from the beginning of the course. This rules-out a pregnancy, helps you confirm that the OCP is working for you, and hints at starting the next blister pack.
How to Make the Pills Work Best for You
Failure to take their OCPs regularly as prescribed, giving up the course due to unwanted side effects, and not keeping regular follow-ups with their gynaecologists are the commonly known reasons for the failure of OCPs. The following few steps can help make these pills work for you in the best way possible:
Keep an alarm, a diary, or using an app to remind you to take the pill.
Place the pillbox in your daily utility case or bag.
Your partner or other family members taking regular medications (pill buddies) can help remind you to take the pill.
Avoid too much tea and coffee, as these reduce the absorption of drugs.
Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption to improve efficacy.
Avoid taking other long-term medications, or take your doctor’s advice regarding them as OCPs have a lot of common drug interactions, which reduce their efficacy.
Follow up with your gynaecologist regularly.
Do not succumb to side effects with the medications. They can be avoided with your doctor’s advice and simple lifestyle modifications.
Since OCPs aren’t 100 per cent effective, use a condom while having intercourse for better safety (against STDs) and efficacy (birth control).
Can You Use the Pills While Breastfeeding?
Barrier or physical methods of contraception like the use of condoms by the male are ideal for nursing mothers. Hormonal contraceptives are better avoided during breastfeeding. If you are advised hormonal contraception due to other indications, progestin-only pills are preferable. Estrogen is known to hamper the amount of milk produced by the mother. It is also better avoided in the first six weeks after delivery since pregnancy and estrogen both are pro-thrombotic and can increase the possibility of having blood clots, especially in the large veins of the lower limbs.
Effectiveness of Contraceptive Pills
Overall efficacy of oral contraceptive pills is found to be around 97%, but practically, it is accepted to have a success rate of 91% with the use of hormonal contraception only.
Good compliance with your medications, coordination with your partner and regular follow-ups with your gynaecologist are the key factors for success in birth control with hormonal contraceptives.
Simultaneous use of other contraceptive methods, like condoms, can further improve the rate of pregnancy prevention significantly.
Benefits of Oral Contraceptive Pills
Following are the key benefits of OCPs:
Reversible: Unlike intrauterine devices (IUDs), OCPs can be safely discontinued whenever a pregnancy is desired, and hence make for an easily reversible method of contraception.
Menstrual Benefits: OCPs can help regularise your menstrual cycles (However, it may be a cause of irregular menses in few cases).
Affordable and Customisable: OCPs are now included under many government-subsidised schemes.
Cancer Protection: OCPs help reduce the chances of ovarian and uterine cancers in women.
Treatment of Osteoporosis: OCPs are vital in the hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.
Risks of Oral Contraceptive Pills
Following are the major risks associated with the use of oral contraceptives.
They do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases or STDs.
OCPs may interfere with the action of other drugs you may be taking, like warfarin.
There is also significant hypertension and stroke risk.
OCPs are associated with breast cancer and cervical cancer.
OCPs are pro-coagulants and should be used with caution in people with coagulation disorders and smokers.
OCPs require a doctor’s prescription and need to be taken stringently daily.
Side Effects of Oral Contraceptive Pills
Oral contraceptive pills are associated with certain side effects when used for a significant period of time. Although most of these side effects are mild, they might be quite distressing for some women:
Gastritis and nausea
Increase in body weight
Swelling and tenderness of the breasts
Occasional spotting and irregular menses
Mood swings
Use of oral contraceptive pills may be associated with a few serious symptoms, including liver disorder, cardiac problems, or stroke associated with their use.
Symptoms That Indicate a Serious Problems
Following is a list of red-flag signs while on oral contraceptives, which indicate that you should immediately consult your doctor:
Acute chest pain
Dyspnea or shortness of breath
Hemoptysis or blood in sputum
Acute abdominal colicky pain
Unilateral swelling of leg, calf tenderness, or thigh pain
Migraines or throbbing headaches which begin or worsen after initiation of OCPs
Slurring of speech, tingling or numbness, visual blurring, weakness of either limb
Hepatic dysfunction: persistent vomiting, yellowing of skin, eyes, and urine, right-sided pain or generalised distension of abdomen
Medications That Make the Pill Ineffective
Oral contraceptives are known to have several drug interactions. Your doctor might provide you with a list of such drugs and chemicals which include:
Anti-tubercular drugs
Anti-fungal agents (like griseofulvin)
Barbiturates and few other sedatives
Anti-retroviral drugs like Zidovudine and Stavudine
Anti-epileptic drugs like Phenytoin Sodium
Commonly used antibiotics do not have significant interactions with OCPs and are generally permissible.
What If You Forget to Take Pregnancy Pill?
Missing your oral contraceptives while you are sexually active certainly carries the risk of an unwanted pregnancy. The risk, however, depends on certain factors, like which dose was missed, how many doses have been missed and whether or not another backup method like condoms, was used while having sexual intercourse.
Here are some guidelines for protecting yourself:
If you have missed a single daily dose of an active hormone pill, you may take it at the earliest continuing the further course at the usual time.
You need not repeat the dose if you have missed one of the dummy tabs in the last seven days of the course.
If you had unprotected sex before starting another pack, it is advisable to take an emergency contraceptive pill.
If you couldn’t start your pack on time (i.e. from the first or fifth day of your periods, as instructed by your doctor), it is better to resort to a barrier method of contraception, like condoms.
You may contact your doctor in case you have missed more than two doses, or have had repeated unsafe sex during this period, or if you have any unusual symptoms.
Using pillboxes, drug reminder applications, and alarms can help you remember to take your OCPs on time.
FAQs
1. What if I vomit or have diarrhoea after taking the pill?
If once a while, you vomit immediately after consuming an OCP, you may take another pill instantly and continue your course as usual. If you are suffering from food poisoning, hepatitis or any form of gastro-enteritis wherein you have persistent vomiting and loose motions, you should consult your doctor. You might have to temporarily discontinue OCPs and abstain from having unsafe sex if you want to avoid being pregnant, or you might have to switch over to another method of birth control till you recover completely.
2. When can I start another birth control pill pack?
Depending on whether you are on a 21-day course or a 28-day regimen, you will start your next pack of oral contraceptive pills right after you finish your previous blister pack. This would usually coincide with the beginning of your next menstrual period. Irrespective of whether you get menses or no, you should start another blister pack of birth control pills.
3. What if I decide to get pregnant again?
When you plan to conceive while on OCPs, all you have to do is stop taking the pills. As soon as you discontinue the course, you are likely to get your menses started. This marks the beginning of your next menstrual cycle, which will see ovulation around the 14th day. You may plan sexual intercourse in this fertile period for pregnancy. Few gynaecologists may advice waiting for a few normal, regularly-spaced menstrual cycles before you conceive. You should take your clinician’s advice before stopping or altering your OCP course in order to conceive safely.
4. Does the pill protect from STD?
Although oral contraceptive pills prevent pregnancy quite effectively, unfortunately, they don’t offer any protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Barrier contraceptives like condoms, on the contrary, provide protection from all forms of STDs besides also serving as an effective birth control measure.
5. Which are the other birth control options?
Besides hormonal contraceptives, the following are the other options for birth control:
Calendar method: Avoiding intercourse around the ovulation period or the 14th day of menses.
Spermicide gels: locally applied to the female cervix before intercourse.
Barrier methods: Condoms, vaginal rings, and diaphragms
Intrauterine devices: Copper T
Sterilisation techniques: Tubectomy and hysterectomy
6. Is it necessary to take a break from contraceptive pills occasionally?
No, it is not necessary to take a break from OCPs unless you have significant side effects due to prolonged use. However, you may switch over to other methods as and when desired or advised by your health practitioner. Remember, unless you completely switch to another method, after stopping OCPs, you are at fair risk of getting pregnant.
7. What if I miss my dose?
If due to some reason, you happen to miss your dose of OCPs, either try and avoid having sexual intercourse or ensure your partner uses a condom. You may take your missed dose without causing any gap in the course.
With recent medical advances, oral contraceptives are one of the most preferred methods of birth control practised by women worldwide. It ensures safety and reliability when used correctly and as prescribed. It also protects women against ovarian and uterine cancers.
Also Read: Natural Family Planning
Read more
Is It Possible to Choose Your Baby's Sex
Having a baby is a wonderful thing, and almost every couple looks forward to it with excitement. Whether a couple wants a boy, or a girl is an individual matter. Some people can’t resist the thought of holding a little girl in their arms, while others long for a boy to brighten their lives. However, just wanting something doesn’t automatically mean that that is going to happen. What sex your baby gets has always been out of the control of every parent. However, with the advances in modern science and technology, is it possible that now parents may be able to increase the chances of having a boy or the odds of having a girl?
Trying To Conceive- Can You Choose Your Baby’s Gender?
Technically, parents can have more say in the sex of their child. This can happen through fertility treatments in which doctors can identify which embryo is male and which is female. While this may sound like a great thing, it is best to be aware that these treatments are very expensive, they are not all equally accurate, nor are they available to everyone.
There are often two types of people who are most interested in having more control over the sex of their baby. Those who do not want to pass down genetic disorders that are sex-linked down to their children are one type. For example, as epilepsy occurs more in boys, parents in whose family this disease runs may want to know how to conceive a girl.
The second type of couple most likely to want to control the sex of their child is the couple that is interested in family balancing. This is where parents try to have one child of each sex to bring about balance in the family unit. Here, a couple who already has a girl may want to find a plan for a baby boy.
There could be many other personal reasons why a couple may want to have one sex or the other, but for whoever is interested, there are a few things to keep in mind. Be aware that the most accurate of the treatments often cost more than ten thousand dollars, making the treatment very expensive. To add to the cons, the treatments are also often invasive, and the medications have the potential to come with unpleasant side effects.
If you are still interested in trying for the sex of your choice, then researching the different options available will be the best way to start.
Baby’s Sex Selection Methods- High Tech
The high-tech sex selection methods are ones where you need to make up your mind to spend a lot of time and invest a lot of money. These methods use the most advanced scientific technology, medication, and methods to help you get what you want. The two we will be discussing here are the In Vitro Fertilisation method and the Ericsson Method.
1. In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)
In Vitro Fertilisation is a common fertility treatment, but it can also check the sex of your baby.
What Is It
In Vitro, Fertilisation involves a method where the mom-to-be will need to take fertility drugs to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. Usually, the ovaries produce only one egg. The eggs will then be retrieved by the doctor from the walls of the uterus and taken away to be fertilized with sperm. This takes place in a petri dish. After a few days, once the egg has been fertilized and an embryo has formed, the doctor will then place the embryos into the uterus.
How It Is Done
During IVF, there is a procedure called Preimplantation Genetic Testing. Here, a couple of cells will be removed from the embryo and tested for chromosomal or genetic disorders that may have been passed onto the fetus. Two tests are run at this time. They are Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (HPGD) and Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS). Both tests will also be able to check the sex of your baby.
Accuracy And Effectiveness
This procedure is almost 100% accurate when it comes to determining the sex of the embryo. If you want to get pregnant with a boy scientifically, this is the option to pick.
Cost
The treatment to screen for and influence the sex of the child through IVF costs approximately $20,400.
Advantages
One of the biggest advantages of this method is that it guarantees almost 100% that you will have a baby of the sex that you want. So, if you have desired to get pregnant with a girl, you will be able to.
The eggs that are not getting implanted immediately can be frozen for future use.
Disadvantages
It is a very expensive procedure.
The method is intrusive and can be very painful.
You have a high chance of having multiple births.
There is a possibility of suffering from side effects from fertility drugs. These include bloating, blurred vision, swelling, and weight gain.
The unused embryos will need to be dealt with. You can choose to freeze them, donate them to another couple who wants a baby, discard them or even donate the embryos to research.
Availability
Not all medical centers will be willing to perform this procedure simply for selecting the gender of your choice. Instead, they do it solely for medicinal purposes. You will need to call the different hospitals in your area to check which facility will be willing to accommodate.
2. Ericsson Method
If you are looking for how to have a girl or how to have a boy without doing through as much expense and pain as you would with the IVF method, this is another excellent option for you.
What Is It
The Ericsson Method involves Artificial Insemination (AI). Here, sperm is manually placed closer to where fertilization takes place using a catheter. During this method too, fertility drugs may be needed. The Ericsson Method involves the sperm that produces boys and the sperm that produces girls to be separate. Sperm that produces boys often swim fast as compared to the slow-moving sperm that result in girls.
How It Works
A sample of the sperm is poured onto a layer of gluey fluid that awaits inside a test tube. When the sperm is placed inside, all of them will start swimming downwards. The sperm that will eventually produce boys reaches faster than sperm that eventually produces girls. Once the sperm has been separated, the sperm of choice, either male-producing or female-producing, will be artificially inseminated into the uterus.
Accuracy And Effectiveness
If you are wondering how to make sure you have a boy, you will be interested to know that this method seems to have a higher rate of success when it comes to producing boys. The statistics show that it is around 78 – 85% accurate in this case. For girls, the percentage is lower, showing 73 to 75% success.
Cost
The price of the Ericsson method is much less, standing at an average of $600.
Advantages
When compared to IVF, this method is much more budget-friendly.
The procedure is not very intrusive, and it is safer.
Disadvantages
The success rate of this method is lower as compared to IVF.
Getting pregnant through this method may take a few tries as it does not always take place the first time. This will depend on your age, health, and other factors.
Availability
Ericsson Method is available in New York, New Jersey, California, Maine, Florida, and Michigan.
Gender Selection Methods- Low Tech At-Home
If you already have a little girl and want to make a baby boy naturally, these methods are low-tech and easy for anyone to do. The same goes for those who want baby girls. You can do these techniques at home. They are non-invasive, making them more comfortable. The main thing you need to do here is to keep track of your basal body temperature. You can also use an ovulation kit so that you can be sure of when you are ovulating. In these home techniques, the timing of sex makes all the difference.
1. Shettles Method
An easy method for selecting the sex of your baby.
What Is It
This theory says that since sperm that produces males moves faster, and female-producing sperm moves slower, sex should be timed according to what sex you want.
How It Works
Since the faster-moving male-producing sperm is bound to reach the egg in a shorter amount of time, sex should be had as close to ovulation as possible. For those who want girls, you should have sex a couple of days before your ovulation period.
Accuracy And Effectiveness
This method claims to have 80 % success for boys and 75% success for girls.
Cost
This method does not cost much. At most, you will need to purchase an ovulation kit.
Advantages
This method is safe.
It does not involve complicated and painful medical procedures.
Very cost-effective.
Disadvantages
The rate of success is not very high.
If you do not chart your basal body temperature correctly, it will not work.
Availability
Anyone can try this method in the comfort of their home.
2. Whelan Method
This is a very safe method you can try at home for selecting the sex of your child.
What Is It
The Whelan method is different from Shettles Method as here it is believed that it is the changes that take place in the biochemical make-up of the body that is most likely to result in boy-producing sperm occurring earlier on in the ovulation cycle.
How It Works
If you want to have a boy, you should have sex at least six days before ovulation. For girls, you should have sex at least three days before ovulation.
Accuracy And Effectiveness
This method claims to be 68% successful for boys and 56% for girls.
Cost
Other than the cost of an ovulation kit, this method does not cost anything.
Advantages
The cost involved with this method is low.
This is safer than high-tech methods.
Disadvantages
The rate of success is low.
If you do not chart your ovulation cycle accurately, it may not work.
Availability
Anybody can try this method at home.
3. Baby’s Sex Selection Methods- Sex Selection Kits
Sex-Selection kits are made based on the theory put forth by Shettles. They come in handy for some parents who are trying to get a baby of the sex of their choice.
What Is It
These kits contain everything you will need to track the conditions of your body so that you can determine the best time to have sex. You get separate kits for boys and girls. Inside, you will get ovulation sticks, a thermometer, herbal extracts, vitamins, and douches that are said to favor particular sex.
How It Works
The thermometer and the ovulation sticks are meant to help you track your ovulation. You will need to pee on the stick in the same way you would a pregnancy test. You can take the vitamins as they are said to help boost the odds of getting a baby of the sex you want. The douche is supposed to help in changing the environment in the vagina to be able to influence the conception of the sex of your choice. Intercourse should take place according to Shettles theory, so for girls, it should take place two to four days before ovulation, whereas for boys, sex should take place as close to the time of ovulation as possible.
Accuracy And Effectiveness
While the kits themselves claim to be 96% effective, experts in the field of medicine say that there is no real scientific evidence to back these claims.
Cost
It costs almost $200 for a kit that lasts 30 days.
Advantages
An easy to procure and use, this kit is very convenient.
It is safer and non-intrusive.
Disadvantages
The kit itself is not very cheap.
The success rate is questionable.
Availability
You can find these kits through GenSelect.
Fertility Medication for Gender Selection
The process of selecting the gender of your child is something that is generally only applicable to those who are undergoing fertility treatments. This means that the fertility medications that are used for gender selection will be the same as those used for regular fertility treatment. Some of these drugs include Clomid, Femara, and Gravelle.
The Verdict- What Do Doctors Say About These Gender Selection Techniques?
Though it seems that gender selection is something that is seen as progressive and exciting to many people, the topic has led to some controversy in the medical field. When it comes to high-tech methods, we find that the controversy is still raging on. The point that is much debated here is whether it is ethical to select the gender of your child. Often, the fertilized embryos that are of the unwanted sex are destroyed, which means that many potentially healthy babies are simply gotten rid of. On the other hand, some doctors feel like gender selection is a great success and is a great way to help parents who wish to establish family balance.
The low-tech methods are not as controversial. While some doctors do not believe that the low-tech methods play much of a role in gender selection, no doctor will tell you not to try it out if you want to. While the chance of success may not be as high, there are no health risks to these methods. This makes them considered safe for those who want to try it.
Gender selection is a new thing, with not many people being aware that it is even possible. However, it is essential for those who wish to be more involved in the selection of the sex of their child to remember that it is not always possible. Rates of success for high-tech gender selection are high, but not all medical institutions will allow just anybody to undergo the procedures. Only parents who are struggling with fertility get the opportunity to pick the gender of their baby as the opportunity presents itself during their treatment.
For parents who are not having problems with fertility, this option is often not available to them. They would have to undergo a fertility treatment simply to be able to select the sex of their child. It would be a better option for those who want to try and influence the sex of their child to try the low-tech methods that can be done at home. These methods are safe and do not require a large sum of money to be spent.
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Sex (Intercourse) After a Miscarriage
A miscarriage is a physically and emotionally traumatic event for a woman and her partner- healing both physically and emotionally can take a while. Getting back to routine life and trying to have sex with your partner after experiencing a miscarriage can be a challenging task. This article talks about how long to wait to have sex for the first time after a miscarriage, whether it is safe to have sex after a miscarriage, learning to deal with emotional trauma, and also gives tips for getting pregnant after a miscarriage.
When Is It Safe to Have Sex After a Miscarriage?
How soon can you have protected sex after a miscarriage? The waiting period to resume sex after a miscarriage varies for each couple on the basis of the time required for physical and emotional healing. A couple can resume sex once they feel emotionally ready and after the woman’s body has completely recovered. However, it is best to avoid vaginal sex until the bleeding is stopped and you are feeling comfortable to resume. Some couples may have a high sex drive after miscarriage, but it is important to consider health and safety as well before engaging in sexual activity.
Typically, if a miscarriage occurs in the first trimester and there are no complications like pain, vaginal odour, bleeding or continuing symptoms of pregnancy, sex can be resumed after 2 to 3 weeks. However, if a miscarriage occurs in the second or third trimester, it is better to wait at least 6 weeks to resume sexual activity.
Is It Common to Experience Pain During Sex After a Miscarriage?
Experiencing abdominal cramps reminiscent of menstrual pain following a miscarriage is common. However, with the gradual healing of the uterus, these cramps and discomfort should gradually subside.
Engaging in sexual activity after a miscarriage can sometimes lead to the sensation of cramping during or after intercourse. It’s important to note that if you have developed an infection, these cramps may be accompanied by symptoms such as fever, chills, and an unpleasant odour in vaginal discharge.
What Are the Risks of Sex After a Miscarriage?
Sex soon after a miscarriage, whether for comfort or to try for the baby again, can open gates for some risks for the mother. Here are some that the couple should know:
1. Risk of Developing an Infection
Following a miscarriage, the cervix may be more open than usual, which can increase the risk of infection. To minimise the risk of infection, gynaecologists recommend waiting 2-3 weeks after a miscarriage before engaging in sexual activity or any form of vaginal penetration. Infections after a miscarriage typically manifest with symptoms like fever, chills, and an unpleasant odour in vaginal discharge. Being aware of these symptoms can help take corrective actions early.
2. Health Complications
Having sex too soon after a miscarriage can potentially lead to complications, including infections and bleeding. Doctors advise waiting for a certain period before resuming sexual activity after a miscarriage.
Therefore, it’s essential to prioritise your health and follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations to ensure a safe and healthy recovery.
Learning to Deal With Your Emotions After a Miscarriage
Apart from dealing with physical changes after a miscarriage, a woman has to deal with strong emotions too. It is quite normal to feel sad, anxious, angry, guilty or irritable after a miscarriage. These conflicting emotions may make it difficult for you to be intimate with your partner again, and that is perfectly normal.
The 5 Stages of Grief After a Miscarriage
The aftermath of a miscarriage is emotionally trying for a couple. Although time and comfort heal wounds, understanding the stages of grief can help you and your partner cope with the emotional upheaval.
1. Denial
Denial is the first stage of mourning. Your mind may deny the tragedy, and that might make it difficult for you to come to terms with what has happened.
2. Anger/Guilt
Once the realisation of having lost your child hits you, anger may take the place of denial. You may replay the events of the fateful day in your head and blame yourself or others for it.
3. Bargain
In this stage, you may ask yourself, “Why me?” and turn towards a higher power or God. Some women also tend to strike up a bargain (mannat) with God to return her child.
4. Depression
Strong, negative emotions may spiral into depression. You may start feeling like there’s nothing left to live for.
5. Acceptance
However, there are good things waiting to come. Most couples accept the situation and move on. They also understand that the sooner they stop grieving, the sooner they can try for another pregnancy.
Explain to your partner how you feel and ask for support.
Give yourself ample time to recover from the emotional pain caused by this devastating event. It is also prudent to be open about your feelings with your partner and family. Seek grief counselling or couples counselling if necessary. Discuss with your partner and decide if you are ready to try for a second pregnancy.
When Can You Try for Another Pregnancy?
Most doctors advise couples wanting to get pregnant again to wait till the first menstrual period following a miscarriage. This usually takes up to four to six weeks. A woman’s body requires this time to ensure that the hormone levels return to normal after a miscarriage. Also, once your regular menstrual cycle resumes, you can calculate your fertile period accurately. So ideally, you should wait at least two weeks to one month after the miscarriage to begin trying to conceive again.
How long you should wait before trying for a second pregnancy also depends on the time required for physical healing. Some women may experience vaginal bleeding for a few weeks after miscarriage. Whether or not it is painful, it is better to abstain from sex until the bleeding has completely stopped so as to reduce the chances of infection.
Some women may have to undergo surgical removal of the pregnancy tissue, which requires a longer healing period. Also, the cervix and uterus remain partly dilated post miscarriage, making them vulnerable to infections. Hence, doctors advise against sex and the use of tampons until this organ heals completely. This healing process may take up to two weeks.
In case the cause of miscarriage is identified and found to be treatable or recurring, then the next pregnancy should be planned after addressing the cause.
What Are the Chances of Pregnancy After Miscarriage?
It is possible to get pregnant soon after the miscarriage, even before your first period. Ovulation can begin as soon as 2 weeks after the miscarriage for some women, and if you are engaged in sexual activity during this period, there is a possibility of pregnancy.
Tips for Getting Pregnant Post a Miscarriage
Take Prenatal Vitamins: Start taking prenatal vitamins, especially folic acid, at least a month before you start trying to conceive. Note that this medication should be prescribed by your doctor.
Wait Until You Have Completely Healed: Make sure you have recovered physically and are emotionally ready for pregnancy Talk to your doctor and do not hesitate to seek trauma counselling or bereavement support if you require help to overcome the emotional pain of miscarriage.
Healthy Diet and Regular Exercise: Eat lots of fruits and vegetables with your meals. A healthy diet will help to lower the risk of further miscarriages significantly. Exercise regularly to remain fit.
Avoid Harmful Substances: Avoid alcohol, nicotine and drugs. Limit or preferably avoid caffeine intake. All these substances can increase the risk of miscarriages and cause other complications in pregnancy.
Relax and De-stress: According to research studies, stress increases the risk of miscarriages significantly. Try to relax and remain stress-free by doing yoga and breathing exercises, reading a book, going for a walk or indulging in any other activity that makes you feel calm and happy.
Wait to Resume Sex As Per Your Doctor’s Instructions: Follow your doctor’s advice and wait before resuming sexual activity. If you are experiencing vaginal bleeding after the miscarriage, wait until it has completely stopped. Take care when you have sex for the first time after miscarriage bleeding. In case the bleeding resumes, stop having sex and consult your doctor.
Healthy Sex Life: Studies show that having sex at least thrice a week increases the chances of getting pregnant considerably. You can use an ovulation kit to determine your fertile period. Having sex at least 3 to 4 days before and on the day you are ovulating can improve your odds of becoming pregnant.
Preconceptional: Low-dose aspirin should be started 3 months prior to trying again.
When to Consult the Doctor?
If you experience any of the following symptoms, make an appointment with your doctor:
Heavy bleeding
Pain during or after sex
Odour in the vaginal discharge
High fever
Large blood clots or tissue from the vagina
Going through the event of a miscarriage is an agonising experience for a couple. Healing physically is not enough to resume intimacy and start trying to get pregnant again; you have to give yourself time to overcome the emotional pain. Discuss your worries, fears and other feelings with your partner candidly. When you feel emotionally ready to take on the challenge of motherhood again, consult your doctor. Take prenatal vitamins and resume trying to conceive once your doctor gives you the go-ahead.
References/Resources:
1. Miscarriage; March of Dimes; https://www.marchofdimes.org/find-support/topics/miscarriage-loss-grief/miscarriage
2. Afterwards Miscarriage; NHS; https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/miscarriage/afterwards/
3. Pregnancy after miscarriage: What you need to know; Mayo Clinic; https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/pregnancy-after-miscarriage/art-20044134
4. Treating miscarriage; The Women’s; https://www.thewomens.org.au/health-information/pregnancy-and-birth/pregnancy-problems/early-pregnancy-problems/treating-miscarriage
5. Nynas. J, Narang. P, Kolikonda. M, K, Lippmann S; Depression and Anxiety Following Early Pregnancy Loss: Recommendations for Primary Care Providers; Prim Care Companion CNS Disord 2015;17(1):doi:10.4088/PCC.14r01721; https://www.psychiatrist.com/pcc/depression/depression-anxiety-following-early-pregnancy-loss/; January 2015
6. Miscarriage; Mayo Clinic; https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pregnancy-loss-miscarriage/symptoms-causes/syc-20354298
Also Read:
How to Boost Fertility after Miscarriage
Positive Pregnancy Results after Miscarriage
Is it Possible to get Pregnant after Two Miscarriage
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A Guide to Fertility: Identifying the Best Time to Conceive
If you are planning to get pregnant, it’s important that you understand the basics of fertility. Knowing the right time of ovulation and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help you conceive easily.
What is Fertility?
Fertility is the natural capability of an individual to produce a baby. The process of conception is not an easy one. A woman has to go through a number of stages in order to conceive. If you are planning to have a baby, you must understand the basics of fertility to conceive without any hassles.
Fertile Period
Know the Best Days
For eggs and sperms to work efficiently to produce an offspring, the reproductive organs in both the man and woman must be healthy and working at optimum levels. You should understand your menstrual cycle and know the appropriate time you should try to conceive a baby. Your period begins on day 1 and lasts up to three to five days. On day 7, certain hormones cause eggs in the ovaries to ripen. By day 11, the lining of the uterus thickens. Between the 13th and 20th day, a mature egg is released from the ovary. This is your fertile period and the right time to conceive a baby. When the eggs mature, they can be fertilised for up to 12-24 hours after they are released from the ovary. Similarly, sperms can stay alive in a woman’s body 12-48 hours after ejaculation. Trying to conceive a baby around this time increases your chances of pregnancy. The basal body temperature (BBT) of your body goes up during ovulation and this is the best time to try for a baby.
Fertility Problems
There are a lot of reasons that can cause problems with conceiving:
For men, it could be a low sperm count or poor quality of sperm.
In case of women, fertility reduces with age. The chances of getting pregnant during 40s are much less than they are in 30’s.
For women, fertility problems can also be linked with irregular ovulation and endometriosis among other conditions, which can affect a woman’s ability to conceive.
In case you are a heavy smoker, over or underweight, it is likely to affect your chances of getting pregnant.
If the fallopian tubes of a woman are damaged or blocked it will hinder the easy transfer of eggs and sperm.
In case the sperm does not fuse with the egg or if the fertilised egg is unable to attach itself to the uterus, the endometrial lining breaks down and your period begins.
Fertility Tests for Women
Go for a sperm test to check for any kind of abnormalities in sperm.
Get your urine test done for detection of Chlamydia. This can also affect the functioning of sperms and male fertility.
With just 2-4 fertile days in a woman’s menstrual cycle, the fertile window for conceiving a baby is small. With proper health precautions and planning, you can make the most out of it.
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Vaginal Ring – A Birth Control Option
Fertility control medications or devices have been on the market for many years. With time, they have evolved to incorporate new advances in medical science to provide effective and safe birth control. One of the recently developed contraceptive devices for women is the vaginal ring, which has attracted a lot of attention. It is a device that delivers contraceptive hormones into the vagina and offers effective protection against unplanned pregnancy. This article talks about the various aspects of using a vaginal ring in detail.
What is Vaginal Ring?
The vaginal ring, as the name suggests is a ring-shaped structure that is meant for insertion into the vagina. It is made of soft plastic material or silicone and is coated with hormones that prevent women from conceiving. This simple contraceptive device is marketed under various brand names and is easily available in any family planning centre.
How Does it Work?
The vaginal ring works by preventing the process of fertilization. The ring that gets inserted into the vagina is coated with a combination of the hormones, estrogen and progestin. Both these hormones are absorbed into the reproductive system through the lining of the vagina and act in a threefold way to prevent conception.
Similar to contraceptive pills, these hormones prevent ovulation or the process of formation of the egg.
It increases the thickness of the mucous layer in the cervix, thereby obstructing the path of the sperm to enter the uterus.
It thins down the endometrial layer inside the uterus. A thick uterine wall is imperative for a fertilized egg to attach and grow. By preventing the thickening, the vaginal ring also ensures that the fertilized zygote does not implant itself for further differentiation.
Usage Guidelines
The vaginal ring is used throughout the month except for the time when menstruation occurs. This effectively means three weeks of wearing the ring and one week of the ring-free period for allowing menstruation. Once the menstrual cycle gets over, a new ring is inserted back to provide protection from unintended pregnancy.
1. How to Insert
Inserting and using a vaginal ring is very simple. Some precautions to be taken before inserting the ring are to sanitize the hands before opening the ring and also to check if the ring is within its validity period for usage. To insert the vaginal ring, open the sterile packet and squeeze the ring in such a way that the opposite sides touch each other. In this position, tease the ring inside the vagina and release it to take up its circular position.
2. How to Remove
For removal of the ring, insert your sanitized hands inside the vagina and gently tug the ring to dislodge it. Pull it out gently and pack it in the original packing material to dispose of it in the sanitary waste. Flushing the ring down the toilet is not recommended.
3. How to Use the Ring if You Want to Get Periods
The vaginal ring can be used to regulate the menstrual cycle, just like a contraceptive pill. To get your periods, insert your ring for a period of three weeks and remove it on the exact same day of the week you inserted the ring. You will get your periods soon after you remove it. Typically after the period gets over, you can insert a new ring. After insertion of the new ring, if there is mild bleeding, it is ok to retain the ring while using a sanitary pad or tampon. Care must be taken to not use a menstrual cup as it can interfere with the placement of the ring.
4. How to Use the Ring to Skip Your Periods
The vaginal ring gives you the privilege of altering and restructuring your menstrual cycle. The technique is very simple, and you can discuss the details with your doctor. If you wish to avoid periods for a particular month, you can continue to wear the ring for four weeks instead of just three weeks. At the end of the fourth week, on the same day of the week on which you inserted the ring, you can replace it with a new one. Mild spotting or bleeding is usually found when the ring is used to skip the periods and there is no proven harmful effect with this method.
How Effective is the Birth Control Ring?
By far, it is one of the most effective contraceptive methods available in the market with a working effectiveness percentage of about 91%. The crucial aspect of using a ring is the prompt maintenance of the time of insertion and removal.
How to Make the Ring Work Best for You
To make the best of this birth control device, the following aspects need to be kept in mind while using it.
You should follow the three-week insertion and one-week removal rule diligently to increase the efficiency of the ring as a birth control method.
Insert and remove the ring on the same day of the week. For example, if you inserted it on a Monday, make sure to remove it on Monday that falls after the completion of three weeks. This way, the cycle is maintained properly.
Inserting it with sterile hands is important in order to prevent any form of vaginal infection.
Although there is no perfect position for inserting the ring, a proper insertion deep inside the vagina can prevent accidental slipping of the ring.
Who Can Use the Contraception Ring?
The contraception ring is suitable for use by women of all ethnicities and ages. Unless there are any medical conditions that hinder the use of the ring, everyone can use it without any problem. Women who have given birth to a baby can start using it after the 21st day of delivery. However, the ring can reduce the flow of breast milk in feeding mothers and hence should be avoided during the first six months of exclusive breastfeeding. It can also be used right after an episode of abortion or miscarriage without any extra contraception.
Who Should Avoid Using Birth Control Ring?
Although suitable for most women, the use of the vaginal ring should be avoided by women who have the following conditions:
a cardiac problem
a clot in the veins or arteries
a habit of smoking and have crossed the age of 35
Breast cancer
Diabetes
Obesity issues
A vagina that is either too big or small for the ring to fit
Advantages of Vaginal Ring
The vaginal ring, apart from providing effective contraception, also has some other benefits, like:
Helping in reducing menstrual cramps and pre-menstrual syndromes
Lighter menstrual bleeding
No serious side effects
Reduced risk of some cancers
It is very easy to insert and does not require any day to day follow up. It also does not interfere with sexual pleasure, making it a very convenient device for birth control.
Risks and Side Effects of Vaginal Ring
As the ring is a hormone-based birth control method, it also entails some side effects just like oral contraceptives. Some reported side effects are:
Nausea
Breast tenderness
Mood swings
Vaginal discharge
A headache
Fatigue and weight gain
Some risk factors associated with the ring are rare instances of a blood clot in the arteries or vein and a slight increase in the risk of breast cancer.
What If You Forget to Remove the Ring?
In case you forget to remove the ring, you may expose yourself to the risk of being unprotected, as the hormones would have outlived their active time period. If you forgot the ring anytime, remove it immediately as soon as you remember. If you kept the ring inside for less than seven days after the third week, remove the ring and give a break of 7 days for your menstrual cycle and then reinsert a new ring. In the case where the ring remains for more than a week after the third week, remove it immediately and put on a new ring right away. During the period where you forgot to remove the ring if you have had any intercourse, immediately take emergency contraceptive pills to avoid unintended pregnancy. Also, remember to take additional precaution while having sex during the following week.
What If the Ring Comes Out On Its Own?
Sometimes, there are chances for the ring to detach and come away during intercourse or otherwise when it is not fitted properly. Depending on the time elapsed after it was inserted and the number of hours it was exposed outside, anyone of the following steps can be adopted.
If the ring is exposed out for less than a time frame of 3 hours, then wash it with cold or slightly warm water and reinsert it carefully.
If the ring is exposed for more than three hours, especially in the first or second week after insertion, then wash it with cold or lukewarm water and reinsert it. Additionally, as a precaution take contraceptive tablets for seven days. If your ring accidentally detaches soon after intercourse, then immediately take emergency contraceptive pills to avoid pregnancy.
If the ring gets exposed for more than three hours during the third week after insertion, you can remain ring-free to complete your menstrual cycle or insert a new ring if you wish to avoid it.
Does Vaginal Ring Provide Protection Against Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)?
The vaginal ring does not offer protection against sexually transmitted diseases. The use of a condom is compulsory if there is any scope for the transmission of such infections.
Vaginal Ring With Other Medicines
Some of the following medicines slightly seem to interfere with the functioning of the ring and bring down its efficiency. You can speak to your doctor before taking these medications if you are using the vaginal ring.
Medications like antibiotics (rifampicin, rifamate, rifampin)
Medications given for HIV
Antifungal griseofulvin
Some anti-epileptic medications
John’s Wort
FAQs
1. When does the vaginal ring start working?
The vaginal ring offers effective protection seven days after insertion. If you insert it during the first day of your menstrual cycle, it offers protection from the day you insert it. When inserted on any other days, it has to be backed by an additional contraceptive for the first 7 days.
2. When can I use the vaginal ring after childbirth?
You can use the ring 21 days after your delivery. However, if you wish to breastfeed your baby, then it is advisable to start using the ring after at least 6 months postpartum, as the hormones in the ring reduce the milk flow.
3. When can I use the ring after an abortion or miscarriage?
You can use the vaginal ring immediately after a miscarriage or abortion.
4. Can I use the ring when breastfeeding?
Although it’s not harmful to use it while breastfeeding, the ring is known to hamper with the breast milk supply. Therefore, it is advisable to not use it until at least six months after delivery.
The vaginal ring is undoubtedly an effective contraceptive tool if used with diligence and proper care. You can talk to your gynaecologist to find out more about the ring and how you can start using it for preventing unintended pregnancy.
Also Read: Natural Birth Control Methods
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Feng Shui for Fertility – Can It Help You Get Pregnant?
Giving birth to a little one is a life-changing moment many women look forward to. The pregnancy journey, preparing for your new baby, lifestyle changes, and anticipation are all a part of that wait!
But what if you’re healthy and fine but seem to have trouble getting pregnant? If you face obstacles while trying to conceive, it could be an indicator of a health condition in either yourself, your partner, or your donor. But it could also point to something often overlooked – energy blockages!
Energy blockages manifest in every corner of your life and, when left unchecked, lead to health problems, anxiety, fear, overthinking, and the breakage of fulfilling relationships. Feng shui is the Chinese art of arranging elements spatially and orienting them in ways to remove these energy blocks in your home and every aspect of your life. It combines architecture and the built environment (1). If you are looking to use feng shui for fertility, here’s what you need to know!
Is It Possible to Conceive Using Feng Shui Methods?
Feng shui is deeply rooted in the philosophy of Yin and Yang. It is believed that how you arrange elements in the house will influence your mood and way of life. Any imbalance in energy leads to a lack of fertility and harmony, thus breaking relationships. Although feng shui won’t instantly change your life, it will slowly make those tweaks that will eventually help you get to where you want, including your goal of fertility and prosperity.
Feng Shui Tips to Improve Your Fertility
Here are a few feng shui tips for conceiving for those who want to renovate their homes or arrange elements in a way that helps them improve fertility:
Remove any mirrors placed inside your bedroom (2). This helps prevent infidelity.
Let your kids jump on the bed or couch all they want. It improves the chi flow and attracts positive Chi.
De-clutter your home to clear any negative blockages.
Remove any furniture from the main door and clear that space. You want Chi to enter your home without exiting or getting blocked (2).
Place a small dragon charm near your bed or bedside to build your Yang energy for fertility (2).
Repair any leaky faucets in your home to prevent Chi from leaking.
Avoid keeping electronic devices in your bedroom.
Men sleep on the left side of the bed, and women on the right. This is known to bring harmony to your energy.
Keep space for a baby. You don’t have to prep your rooms too much, but de-cluttering and reserving space for the baby is a sign of readying for birth.
Place a statue of Buddha with children all over him to promote positive energy and abundance in the house. Keep this in the east direction of your bedroom and on a table, not the floor.
Decorate your home with paintings and portraits of children and baby animals. This helps attract the Chi for fertility.
Keep cut or open pomegranates anywhere around the house. The seeds represent fertility, while the pomegranates are known to attract Chi for happiness and positivity.
Grow a fruit tree indoors or outside. It symbolizes fertility.
Get pictures or figurines of elephants with their trunks down. These symbolize fertility and the strength to overcome any obstacle.
Hang pictures of magpies next to portraits of children and baby animals. They complement well when hung on walls and symbolize joy and happiness.
Remember those cicadas that chirp at night? They’re not your imagination but a sign of marriage and fertility. If you’re trying to conceive, put a few pictures of them up in your bedroom.
The west side of your house should be decorated with Earth elements since they symbolize children and the abundance of energy that lives up the house. Use potted plants, vases with flowers, and similar elements and don’t keep fiery things like candles or lanterns.
The double fish symbolizes marital unions, joy, and harmony. Place one statue in the northwest corner of your bedroom to increase your chances of conceiving.
Look around the house and see if there are any blockages by walking from room to room. Clear the way and remove any objects if it is blocking you from moving around easily or look distracting.
Having a big red ball in the house is a good luck charm for fertility. The big ball represents pregnancy, while red denotes healthy blood circulation or life forming in the womb.
Turtle statues or pet turtles are good feng shui fertility symbols to keep in the house. They also attract good luck and clear energy blockages.
Plant a fuchsia on the right side of your house near the centre. It symbolizes harmony in relationships and helps couples enjoy healthy, long-lasting bonds.
Beautify your bedroom by designing it with colour palettes that include white, brown, ivory, and tan. These are not only visually appealing but also exude sexual desire and fertility.
Do not keep the computer in the bedroom; clear the area, ensuring it’s free from distractions. Your bedroom should be clean, warm and inviting enough for romance and rest.
Wear fertility stones like rose quartz, carnelian, and amethyst to attract positive Chi or remove negative energies from your aura field.
What Happens When You Break the Feng Shui Rule?
If you must clear an area of your bedroom and think it’ll break a feng shui rule, go ahead. But if you plan to conceive, set the elements in place and not clear them out from your bedroom until the big day. This includes not cleaning under the bed after you activate the fertility energy.
Cautionary Tip
A word of caution is to remember to strive for balance and not overdo it when it comes to feng shui. These feng shui fertility symbols above create a gateway for positive energy and open doors to a new life. The feng shui elephant is one of the best fertility symbols to place in the house; de-cluttering will be your most significant step. Make sure to give the work plenty of time since results take a while to show.
The short answer is – yes, you can use feng shui to get pregnant and improve your fertility, but not overnight. Like negative energy blockages build up over time, clearing up will take a while. It won’t take forever, but that’s the good news. You’re off to a good start if you aren’t healthy and have already started applying these tips.
With feng shui, get in shape, eat healthily, and arrange your home to bring abundance and positive energy. That will help foster harmony and fertility. If you use feng shui for getting pregnant, make sure you’re doing it right. Then, the wind of positive changes will blow, which you’ll experience soon enough.
FAQs
1. What are the main feng shui symbols of fertility?
Some fertility symbols used in feng shui include elephants, turtles, dragons, red paper lanterns, double koi fish, and hollow bamboo.
2. What is Chi?
In feng shui, Chi refers to the life force or power within all living beings. It is also known as the ‘breath of cosmic life,’ a strong chi indicates a better life force and vitality (3).
3. What is Yang energy?
Commonly known as masculine energy, Yang energy is defined by its active environments, hot, fiery energy, bright and light colours, and open and entertaining spaces. This improves the chi flow, thus improving fertility chances (4).
Disclaimer:- The tips and ideas listed in the content above are only suggestions for readers, not for treating medical illnesses. Please consult with a doctor or healthcare advisor regarding the treatment of any medical conditions you have. This piece is intended for informational purposes only.
References/Resources:
1. Jin, A. and Juan, Y.K.; Is Fengshui a science or superstition? A new approach combining the physiological and psychological measurement of indoor environments; Building and Environment; https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0360132321003966; 2021
2. 9 Fantastic Feng Shui Tips to Get Pregnant; Sun Signs; https://www.sunsigns.org/9-fantastic-feng-shui-fertility-tips-to-get-pregnant/
3. Feng Shui 101: What is Chi; Laura Morris; https://morrisfengshui.com/blog/feng-shui-101-chi
4. Balanced Yin & Yang: Feng Shui Basics for Harmonious Spaces; Ultimate Academy; https://ultimateacademy.com/feng-shui-courses/feng-shui-blog/what-is-the-best-way-to-balance-yin-and-yang-in-your-home/
Also Read:
Top Exercises to Increase Fertility
Apple Cider Vinegar to Boost Fertility
How Meditation Helps You to Get Pregnant
Best Fertility Yoga Asanas to Get Pregnant Fast
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