Indonesia
The Right Contraception Choice According to Your Needs
Contraception is an important part of family planning and reproductive health. With so many options available, understanding the differences between various contraceptives can help you choose the one that best suits your needs and health condition. The following are further details regarding the differences between each type of contraception:
1. Contraceptive Pills
How it Works: Contraceptive pills contain the hormones estrogen and progestin which prevent ovulation (release of an egg) and make cervical mucus thicker, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg.
Superiority:
- Easy to use and effective if taken regularly.
- Regulates the menstrual cycle and reduces uncomfortable menstrual symptoms.
Limitations:
- Requires a doctor's prescription.
- Must be taken every day at the same time.
- Some women may experience side effects such as mood changes or stomach upset.
2. Condoms
How it Works: A condom is a latex or polyurethane decoration that is placed on the penis to block sperm from entering the vagina.
Superiority:
- Does not require a doctor's prescription.
- Protects against pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as HIV and chlamydia.
Limitations:
- May break or slip if not used properly.
- It needs to be changed every time you have sex.
- Some people may be allergic to latex.
3. Spiral (IUD)
How it Works: A spiral is a small device that is inserted into the uterus by a doctor. There are two types: hormonal (containing progestin) and non-hormonal (copper). They prevent fertilization or attachment of a fertilized egg.
Superiority:
- Effective in the long term (5-10 years depending on the type).
- Does not require daily action after installation.
- Some women experience milder menstrual cycle changes.
Limitations:
- Requires installation by a doctor.
- Some women may experience side effects such as cramping or heavier bleeding.
4. Contraceptive Implant
How it Works: The implant is a small rod that is inserted under the skin of the upper arm and releases the hormone progestin to prevent ovulation.
Superiority:
- Effective in the long term (3-5 years).
- Does not require daily attention.
- Can be removed if you want to get pregnant.
Limitations:
- Requires a medical procedure for installation and removal.
- Some women experience changes in their menstrual cycle or side effects such as headaches or breast tenderness.
5. Contraceptive injection
How it Works: Injection of the hormone progestin which inhibits ovulation and makes cervical mucus thicker.
Superiority:
- Effective for several months (for example, 3 months).
- Does not require daily action.
- Can relieve menstrual pain.
Limitations:
- Requires a visit to a medical facility for injection.
- Some women may experience changes in their menstrual cycle or weight gain.
Choosing a contraceptive that suits your needs is an important decision. Consult a doctor or health care provider for more information, including the benefits, risks, and effectiveness of each contraceptive option. For Hermina friends who want a consultation, you can go to RS Hermina Purwokerto with an ob-gyn specialist.
Access to registration can be done in the following 4 ways:
1. Download the mobile application on Playstore (Type Halo Hermina)
2. Call Call Center 1500488
3. Via website -> www.herminahospitals.com
4. Via the Halodoc application
Reference :
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). (2021). Birth Control. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/birth-control
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2022). Contraception. https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/contraception/index.htm
- Mayo Clinic. (2021). Birth Control Pills. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/birth-control-pill/about/pac-20384594
- Planned Parenthood. (2022). Birth Control. https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control
- World Health Organization (WHO). (2020). Family Planning/Contraception. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/family-planning-contraception