22 Mar 2007
Hormonal Methods
What they do: Release hormones that prevent ovulation, making in harder for fertilized eggs to implant themselves.
What it is: A Pill
Pros: Very effective. Reversible. Can improve your complexion. Can help decrease menstrual bleeding and cramps.
Cons: You have to remember to take it.
Side-effects: Nausea, vomiting, dizziness. Very small chance to developing blood clots in the legs or lungs
Effectiveness: 99%
What it is: Monthly injection
Pros: Think about it only once a month. Most women stop getting their period after six months. Safe for women who can't use birth control pills because of the estrogen in them.
Cons: Same as the pill, plus irregular bleeding. Weight gain (1 kg per year). May take up to two years to get pregnant after the last injection.
Side-effects: Same as the pill. Causes bone density loss and osteoporosis in some women, which may not disappear when you stop taking the injections.
Effectiveness: 99%
What it is: A small plastic ring inserted in the vagina for a month at a time.
Pros: Very low dose of hormones. Deal with it only once a month.
Cons: Some women and their partners say they feel it during sex.
Side-effects: Same as the pill, but since it's new, long-term side-effects, if any, remain unknown. Possible increase in vaginal discharge and irritation.
Effectiveness: 98-99%
What it is: A patch applied to the arm, torso or butt every week.
Pros: One a week - set it and forget it. Usually lightens periods.
Cons: Can fall off in humid weather.
Side-effects: Same as the pill. Possible skin irritation. May be less effective for women weighting more than 90 kg (198lbs).
Effectiveness: 99%
WB Health Article Summer 2006
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