Birth control techniques that use hormones to prevent pregnancy are referred to as hormonal contraception. These techniques work by thinning the uterine lining to stop the implantation of a fertilized egg, thickening cervical mucus to impede sperm motility, and changing a woman's hormonal balance to stop ovulation. These are a few typical kinds: Birth control pills, often known as oral contraceptives, are synthetic forms of the hormones progestin and/or estrogen. Progestin-only (mini-pills) and combination pills (containing both progestin and estrogen) are the two primary varieties available. Usually, combination pills are taken every day for 21 days. After that, there is a week when no pills are taken or a placebo is administered, and this is when menstruation happens. Pills containing solely progestin are taken continuously, once a day. Contraceptive Patch: This is a tiny, skin-applied patch that distributes progestin and estrogen into the circulation. Usually, the patch is put to the skin once a week for three weeks. After that, the skin is left unprotected for one week, during which menstruation takes place.The contraceptive ring, also referred to as the vaginal ring, is a flexible plastic ring that is placed inside the vagina to release progestin and estrogen. After three weeks, the ring is removed for one week to allow for menstruation, and then a fresh ring is inserted. Injectable contraceptives are progestin-containing hormonal injections that are given every few months. Depo-Provera is the most widely used injectable contraception; it prevents conception for roughly three months. Implantable Contraceptives: This technique includes inserting a tiny rod—about the size of a matchstick—under the upper arm's skin. For a maximum of three years, the rod effectively prevents conception by continuously releasing progestin hormone. Intrauterine devices, or IUDs, come in two varieties: hormonal and non-hormonal. Hormonal IUDs release progestin hormone into the uterus locally. This hormone may restrict ovulation and thicken cervical mucus, which prevents sperm from moving. Depending on the kind, hormonal IUDs can prevent pregnancy for a number of years. Emergency Contraception: Also referred to as the "morning-after pill," emergency contraception is a method of preventing pregnancy that involves taking large amounts of hormones, typically progestin, following unprotected sexual activity. It functions by stopping ovulation or obstructing the process of fertilization and implantation. When used appropriately, hormonal contraception is very successful, but it offers little protection against STIs. To choose the best approach based on unique health requirements and preferences, speak with a healthcare professional.
