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Are Contraceptives Dangerous?
by Sarah York
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Overview
Contraceptives are used to protect against pregnancy during sexual intercourse. Some also guard against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Unlike family planning, which involves mapping the monthly female fertility cycle, contraceptives involve props or medicines. As such, they raise concerns over the potential dangers associated with their use.
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Types
Contraceptives fall into three main categories: applied devices, inserted devices and hormonal medicines. Some are available over the counter at drugstores, while others are prescribed or fitted.
Condoms are the most commonly used contraceptive. They are rubber tubes rolled like a second skin over the shaft of an erect penis. Condoms "catch" the semen ejaculated at orgasm, preventing sperm from fertilizing an ovum or female egg. Condoms may contain lubricants that facilitate smooth insertion. Female condoms now exist and are placed inside the vagina. One condom is used for each act of intercourse.
Spermicides are chemical foams, inserts or jellies that kill active sperm. They are inserted into the vagina using an applicator before sex, and provide a barrier to sperm. Some condoms contain spermicide. Spermicides may have a smell or leak after sex, for which women may use pads or panty liners.
Hormonal contraceptives (HCs) are medicines used by women to regulate hormones and control fertility cycles. HCs come in three main forms and are obtained by medical prescription. Birth control pills (BCP) are taken orally once a day for 21 or 28 days every month. They come in different hormonal combinations and phasic forms. Patches are stuck on like Band-aids to hidden areas like the abdomen, bottom or shoulder. They are placed on the skin once a week except during menstruation. Implants or "shots" are inserted into the muscle like a needle shot. They are not painful and work for 11 weeks. Then they must be replaced.
Intra-uterine devices (IUDs) are small T-shaped devices inserted into the uterus by a qualified professional. They take up space so that fertilized eggs cannot attach to the wall of the uterus. IUDs are not detectable during sex. They are effective for up to 10 years.
Diaphragms and sponges are little rubber "caps" that sit on top of the cervix and block sperm from passing into the uterus. They are flexible, bend easily and are inserted manually into the vagina before sex. Diaphragms are rubber domes filled with spermicide. They must be custom fitted by a qualified professional. Sponges are small round sponges with a loop handle. They contain spermicide and absorb semen. They can be inserted up to 12 hours before sex.
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Effectiveness
When used as directed, most contraceptives are about 80 percent to 100 percent effective. Some contraceptives offer more protection than others. When combined, such as a condom with spermicide, their reliability in preventing pregnancies is increased. Spermicides used alone, however, are the least-reliable contraceptive. Applied devices often require practice before they become comfortable and safe.
Not all contraceptives work right away. Condoms can be used immediately, whereas inserted devices must be applied before sex. HCs can take a week up to a month to function correctly, and can be paired with a condom until then.
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Misconceptions
Contraceptives do not necessarily guard against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Condoms can prevent the transmission of fluid infections such as HIV, but not viruses like warts on uncovered genitalia. Hormonal and inserted contraceptives do not protect against STIs, though diaphragms can help.
Emergency contraceptives, such as the ECP (or MAP "Morning After Pill"), which is a powerful dosage of birth control pills, are not to be used regularly or as a contraceptive method. The ECP can be used up to 72 hours after intercourse to counter unwanted pregnancy. It is for emergencies only.
No currently approved contraceptive is known to cause damage to the reproductive system. When you stop using contraceptives, you can get pregnant again. Some contraceptives create a longer wait time for fertility to return, whereas with others, fecundity returns immediately
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Risks
Each contraceptive has its own risks. Talk to your doctor or clinician to get all of the information you need.
The risk of pregnancy depends on the type used and on proper use or application. For example, condoms, when misapplied, can slip off or burst during intercourse. HCs do not work when doses are accidentally missed. Some contraceptives delay the ability to get pregnant for women who stop using them. Depo-Provera shots can lead to conception problems for women who already have children.
Hormonal contraceptives can pose medical risks. Everyone's body reacts differently to medicines. HCs may cause nausea, dizziness, irregular periods or spotting, cramping, depression, hair loss, acne, weight gain, moodiness and increased risk of breast cancer. However, they may offer some positive health benefits such as lighter periods, clear skin, desired weight loss, elimination of PMS and reduced risk of cervical cancer. Long-term use of certain HCs can pose a threat to your health.
IUDs typically cause cramping and tenderness for a while, but in extreme cases they can lead to infection or endometriosis. Rarely, they can embed in or puncture the uterine wall. They can also delay wanted pregnancy once removed.
The risk of STIs is spelled out above.
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Dangers
The dangers of contraceptives are largely related to a lack of information or poor choices. Consult a qualified professional if you are unsure about what to use or how.
Only some contraceptives protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Abuse of contraceptives, such as regular use or overdose of emergency contraceptive pills or ECPs, can cause erratic menstrual cycles -- which make it difficult to determine pregnancy -- and extreme pain. In some cases, it can induce miscarriage and increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy.
HCs should not be used by women at risk for certain diseases or who have preexisting conditions like liver disease or cancer. Smokers are especially in danger of blood clots, which can lead to stroke or fatality. Medical risks should be discussed with a professional and can be serious. Shots like Depo Provera should not be used for more than two years, as they can lead to long-term bone loss. HCs such as pills and shots must not be combined.
Condoms and spermicides may cause skin irritation. Some people are allergic to lubricants, rubbers or chemical spermicides, and can develop itching or burning sensations or a rash. These reactions are not harmful, but cause temporary discomfort. Switching brands or types of contraceptive can solve the problem.
