For once, let’s be more open-minded: couples do need to learn more about birth control methods- especially those young adults, in order to prevent unintended pregnancy- be it because of certain health conditions or because it does not align with one’s plan.
That’s when a variety of birth control methods enter the scene. It is important to understand that birth control methods differ from one another depending on the individual’s lifestyle, preferences, and health conditions.
Hence, the effectiveness, protection, and side effects that you will experience, may also vary from each other that is why it is best to consult with your OB-GYN to obtain some professional advice. So, what are the birth control methods and where can you get one?
List of Birth Control Methods: Where to Get Them?
1. Birth Control Pills
First on the list is birth control pills also known as oral contraceptives. These pills are composed of synthetic hormones of estrogen and progestin, mainly responsible in stopping the ovulation, thickening the cervical mucus to block sperm from entering a woman’s body, and thinning the lining of your uterus to hinder the implantation.
Where to Get: Drugstores nationwide (with OB-GYN prescription), prices range from Php140 to Php900 each box.
2. Injectable Contraceptives
Second on the list is injectables where synthetic progestin hormones are injected into the muscle which shall be done usually every three months.
Where to Get: Hospitals and clinics, price starts at Php370.
3. Implants
Third on the list is the long-lasting and reversible implants or also called Implanon. This birth control method involves the use of flexible rods which shall be inserted under the skin of the upper arm by a healthcare professional.
Where to Get: Commission on Population’s POPCOM wellness clinic in Mandaluyong, free.
4. IUD
Fourth on the list is the non-hormonal method called IUD or Intrauterine device which is a tiny T-shaped device inserted into the uterus by a healthcare professional. The IUD may vary between hormonal and the non-hormonal copper IUDs causing inflammation in your uterus that is toxic to the sperm.
Where to Get: Private hospitals, clinics, and NGOs.
5. Tubal Ligation and Vasectomy
Fifth on the list is the permanent methods tubal ligation and vasectomy. As for women, they may choose the tubal ligation which is a surgical procedure that blocks or cuts the fallopian tubes hindering eggs from being fertilized.
For men, on the other side, they may choose vasectomy which is a a surgical procedure that seals the ends of the vas deferens— a tube that delivers sperm to block it from being ejaculated during s****l activity.
Where to Get: Hospitals
6. Condoms
Sixth on the list is the most widely accessible condoms which are thin latex or plastic worn over an erect p***s during s****l activity.
Where to Get: Drugstores and convenience stores, price starts at Php30.
7. Natural Family Planning Method
Last but definitely not the least is the natural family planning method which is not a contraceptive but closely looking when you are most fertile, using the calendar, basal body temperature, and cervical mucus methods.
Note that choosing what birth control method you will use is a personal decision based on your health needs, lifestyle, and reproductive goals.
Being knowledgeable and aware of these options are essential for empowering all individuals to make informed choices when it comes to the consequences of unintended pregnancy.
