Pills have been around for half a century, making them the most popular means of contraception for women today. But what was true back then is false today. The implant, IUDs and injectables all having better success rates than the pill is a common myth that circulates in society. However, in actual use, there are many medication alternatives available in the market that are proven to be more effective.
What exactly are these alternatives?
If you’re weary of monitoring your pill consumption and aren’t getting the best outcomes, we have gathered a list for you of other longer-lasting and more efficient contraceptive methods than pills.
Reversible long-acting contraception
The most effective methods of contraception, excluding abstinence and sterilisation, are long-acting reversible methods (LARC). In Australia, 50% of women have an unplanned pregnancy, despite the fact that 70% of women actively use contraception, according to a national poll. Increased usage of LARCs by women is proven to be more productive, scientists claim, as human error has less effect on LARCs in comparison to other kinds of contraception.
Implants
Contraceptive implants consist of a 4 cm flexible plastic rod being inserted beneath the skin of a woman’s upper arm. A synthetic hormone similar to progesterone is included in the implant, to which it is continually released into blood circulation for three years. After removal, fertility recovers quite rapidly.
The implant is the most reliable method of birth control now available; it is even more reliable than permanent methods like vasectomies, female tubal occlusions, and tubal ligations.
Intrauterine Device
Experts blame a lack of knowledge among women and GPs for the negative connotations that contemporary IUDs suffer from, which are compared to those of their historical counterparts. IUDs have a terrible image historically, however modern IUDs are significantly different from prior generations.
The two types of IUDs now available are copper and hormonal. Women who are nursing can use either type of IUD. A general practitioner (GP) or gynaecologist with competence in IUD insertion in Melbourne often performs quick and painless operations.
The hormonal IUD
For women who experience severe menstrual bleeding, hormonal IUDs are very beneficial. Mirena insertions can be used to treat heavy menstrual bleeding or prevent endometrial hyperplasia, just as the contraceptive pill and the implant (excessive growth of the lining of the womb). Mirena alters the menstrual cycle similar to the implant, although most women experience milder periods as a result.
Additionally, a randomised study including 571 women revealed that Mirena is superior to standard medical care in minimising the negative effects of excessive monthly bleeding.
Copper IUD
Women who cannot or do not want to use a hormonal method of contraception can use copper IUDs as they do not contain hormones.
Copper IUDs are made up of many little copper cylinders strung together, which last for five years. Studies have shown that because it is smaller than other IUDs, it is more suitable for younger women, especially those who have not yet given birth, and it has less difficulties and adverse effects, such as severe bleeding in other IUDs.
Emergency Contraception
In situations where contraception is forgotten about or may have failed, emergency contraception is now accessible over the counter.
A single 1.5mg dosage of levonorgestrel administered within three days of unprotected contact is the most used emergency contraception approach. Although it may lose some of its potency after five days, it can still be utilised.
Up to five days following unprotected intercourse, copper IUDs can be used as emergency contraception.
You may choose a long-lasting, safe option for yourself using the aforementioned alternatives. If you’re searching for a family practice or medical clinic near me, Main Street Medical can provide you with any form of consultation. Visit our website at https://msmedical.com.au/contact-us to enquire further about our services or to chat with one of our experienced practitioners.
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