How to choose contraceptives
To select a drug, you need to determine its general properties. Also study side effects and pharmacological actions. The priority, of course, is efficiency and safety. The following factors were taken into account when compiling the list:
- Mode of application;
- Ease of use;
- Side effects on the body;
- Effect on body and health;
- Amount of drug in the package;
- Main substances in the composition;
- Influence on sensations during sexual intercourse;
- Real reviews from women who have repeatedly used medications;
- Recommendations from specialists, gynecologists and reproductive specialists;
- Price and availability for purchase.
How to use spermicidal suppositories
To avoid accidentally getting pregnant, before using birth control suppositories, it is very important to read the instructions and follow all the requirements for these drugs. If, after studying the instructions, you still have questions about how to use birth control suppositories, consult a gynecologist. This will save you from possible problems.
Contraceptive suppositories must be inserted deep into the vagina no later than 10 minutes before sexual intercourse. Why before the act? Because the composition of any suppository, in addition to the medicinal substance, also includes a fatty base, which should melt under the influence of body temperature, and the active substance should be evenly distributed over the walls of the vagina. This will take 10 – 30 minutes. The drug will be effective over the next 4 hours. If you violate the specified time intervals, then the expected effect against pregnancy of the suppository will not occur.
Mandatory condition: do not use soap 2 hours before and 2 hours after sexual intercourse, as soap destroys spermicides.
If repeated sexual intercourse is expected (even if 4 hours have not yet expired), you need to use the drug again.
A rule that cannot be broken is one candle per sexual encounter.
Errors in use are associated with failure to comply with the specified time intervals, as well as incorrect introduction of spermicide into the vagina.
Rating of the best contraceptives
Type of drug | Name | Average price, rub. |
Birth control pills | Yarina | 1 119 |
Jess | 1 117 | |
Novinet | 445 | |
Triquilar | 636 | |
Birth control suppositories | Pharmatex | 468 |
Nonoxynol | 337 | |
Intrauterine devices | Juno Bio – T | 131 |
Mirena | 13 920 | |
Multiload KU-375 | 4 589 | |
Contraceptive patch | Eura | 750 |
Barrier contraceptives | Nuvaring vaginal rings | 1 413 |
Condoms Contex | 100 |
Birth control suppositories
Suppositories are a safe and effective means of contraception. Such drugs do not harm the stomach and liver. They are used through vaginal administration. Birth control suppositories are not suitable for long-term use. They do not have accumulative properties. The advantages of this method of protection are the absence of a systemic effect on the body and the preservation of intimate sensations. The exposure time is from 30 to 40 minutes. At least half an hour should pass between hygiene procedures and the introduction of suppositories. This time is necessary so that detergent residues do not interfere with the pharmacological effects of the drug.
Pharmatex
Benzalkonium chloride, which is part of the drug, destroys the structure of the sperm, preventing fertilization of the egg. When Pharmatex comes within the scope of action, sperm destruction occurs within 10 seconds, while other drugs in this group require at least 30 seconds. In addition to its contraceptive properties, Pharmatex additionally protects against sexually transmitted infections. Transmission of the virus cannot be completely ruled out, but in most cases the medication is effective.
Advantages:
- The active substances of the drug do not enter the gastrointestinal tract;
- Suitable for use during breastfeeding;
- Not addictive;
- Easily washed off during a hygienic procedure.
Flaws:
- Sometimes foaming is possible;
- Rare allergic reaction.
The drug Farmatex is suitable for use by all women of childbearing age. Ideal for irregular sex life. Does not cause harm to health and protects against external infections. Consumers note the effectiveness and ease of use.
Nonoxynol
The drug is suitable for women who cannot use oral contraceptives according to doctor's indications. Nonoxynol is also suitable for one-time protection. It must be administered 20 minutes before sexual intercourse. The suppository affects the vaginal microflora, thickening it and preventing sperm from reaching the egg. It is not recommended to administer for inflammation of the female organs, colpitis or erosion. Due to a possible decrease in spermicidal activity, Nonoxynol should not be used simultaneously with other drugs intended for intravaginal administration.
Advantages:
- Small size;
- Without smell;
- Do not cause irritation to the mucous membrane;
- Easy to enter.
Flaws:
- Impossibility of hygiene procedures immediately after sexual intercourse;
- Inconvenient individual packaging of the candle.
Women who have used contraceptive suppositories have positive reviews. Almost no side effects were found during use. Sensations during sex do not dull, sometimes sensitivity even increases. Approved for use during lactation. Not addictive.
Kinds
https://youtu.be/t7FnzPDq8dc
Modern birth control suppositories do not contain hormonal components; they are based on a substance with a spermicidal effect and an auxiliary component that remains solid at room temperature, but can soften at body temperature. The entire variety of modern candles can be divided into two large groups, depending on the active ingredient:
- Vaginal suppositories with nonoxynol, which include Patentex Oval.
- Preparations with benzalkonium chloride, such as Pharmatex, Benatex or Ginekotex.
- Suppositories with a complex composition, such as Contraceptin T, containing quinosol, boric acid and tannin.
There is another classification. Depending on which substance makes up the basis, contraceptive suppositories are divided into:
- Melting ones, such as Pharmatex, which form a thin film on the surface of the vagina.
- Foaming, such as Patentex Oval, creating foam.
Doctors believe that thanks to the foam, the active substance is distributed more evenly and causes less irritation. However, for some women, excessive foam causes discomfort.
Intrauterine devices
The best birth control includes an intrauterine device. Ideal for women who have given birth and who have a permanent partner, since the IUD does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases. And for nulliparous girls, it is better to choose another type of contraception, since the IUD can injure the internal walls of the uterus and provoke the development of infertility. There are two types of IUDs: regular and hormone-containing. It is installed every few years. During this time, you should check its installation occasionally.
Juno Bio – T
The non-hormonal T-shaped spiral Juno Bio provides an anchor made of hypoallergenic high-density polyethylene, around which copper wire is placed. The material does not enter into chemical reactions with the natural biological environment and does not emit toxic substances.
The medicinal composition includes propolis, which also provides protection against microbes and some infections. It is installed on the second day of menstruation by a gynecologist. In the first few days, unpleasant and sometimes painful sensations are likely. After 10 days, you need to check the correct installation and adaptation of the body to the device. The IUD is valid for up to 7 years.
Advantages:
- Lack of hormones;
- Additional disinfection of microflora;
- There is no sensation of a foreign object;
- Libido does not decrease.
Flaws:
- There may be a slight increase in menstrual flow.
You should follow safety rules in the first days. You should not lift weights or have sex for two weeks after installation. If you find incompatibility with the IUD, go to the doctor immediately, do not hesitate.
Mirena
Refers to the hormonal type. First of all, the spiral affects the endometrium. The drug stabilizes it and prevents unplanned pregnancy. The composition includes levonorgestrel, which enters the uterus daily in microscopic doses, which contributes to effective protection against unwanted pregnancy over a long period of time. And although the main function of the IUD is contraception, research results have shown that Mirena can also be successfully used as a treatment for many gynecological diseases.
Advantages:
- Reduced bleeding during menstruation;
- Normalization of hormonal levels;
- Quick installation;
- Almost complete absence of side syndromes.
Flaws:
- High price.
Quick installation of the IUD and long-term use allows you to not think about contraceptive methods for up to 5 years. It is necessary to visit a specialist annually to check the installation. Consult a doctor in case of side effects.
Multiload KU-375
Locally applied IUD increases the activity of lysosomes, which in turn contribute to the destruction of the active components of seminal fluid. It consists of high-density polyethylene with copper wire, which is clearly visible on x-rays and ultrasound, due to which you can control the position of the spiral. Flexible side elements fix the IUD in the highest possible position, resting on the bottom of the uterus, but without stretching its internal cavity at all. The reliability level is 98%.
Advantages:
- Convenient use;
- Long-term use;
- Safe for health;
- Can be used while breastfeeding.
Flaws:
- Contraindicated in the presence of benign tumors.
The use of Multiload KU-375 does not harm reproductive function and after removal of the IUD, a planned pregnancy occurs within a year.
Using this type of IUD, women reliably protect themselves from STIs, since the active substance of the IUD destroys harmful microorganisms.
Contraceptive patch
A universal means of protecting against unplanned pregnancy is contraceptive patches. They are quite easy to use - you just need to stick a piece of flesh-colored patch on the skin, avoiding the chest area. The product provides a long-term effect. The sticker must be changed once every two weeks.
Eura
The hormone analogs included in the medication slow down the ovulation process. The patch should be applied for the first time on the first day of the menstrual cycle, then changed weekly. The use of the drug does not affect internal organs, such as the liver and stomach, since the hormones enter directly into the blood, absorbed through the skin. The adhesive base of the patch practically does not come off during hygiene procedures.
The Evra contraceptive patch does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases. Therefore, it is suitable for use with one permanent partner. The effectiveness of protection against unwanted pregnancy is 99.6%. Even if the patch was not changed within 2 days, the contraceptive properties of the drug are preserved, and the use of additional contraceptives in this case is not required.
Advantages:
- Not visible under clothes;
- Does not affect subsequent childbearing;
- Available for purchase;
- The condition of the nails improves.
Flaws:
- By the end of the week, the edges of the patch may turn black;
- Can be difficult to remove from the body.
Women note the absence of side effects. Associated symptoms include increased libido, absence of PMS and pain during menstruation, and confidence in protection from unplanned pregnancy.
Popular vaginal suppositories
- "Pharmatex" - suppositories produced by the French company Innotech. They can be used during the postpartum period and for menstrual irregularities. The main component is benzalkonium chloride; if you have an individual intolerance to this component, they should not be used.
- “Erotex” is a contraceptive suppository that has an additional antimicrobial, antifungal and antiviral effect, reducing the risk of thrush and other infectious diseases. Does not change the vaginal microflora, and without changing hormonal levels. The drug "Erotex" is available with the scent of rose, lemon or lavender.
- "Gynecotex" is a local contraceptive produced in Russia, which is an analogue of "Contratext", "Spermatex", "Pharmatex". After use, in order not to reduce the contraceptive effect of the drug, you can wash with soap or douche after 2 hours.
- Benatex is a contraceptive drug based on a cationic detergent. An additional effect is activity against staphylococci and streptococci, herpes, pseudomonads, anaerobes, and strains resistant to antibiotics. May serve as a preventive measure for some STIs.
- Sterilin is a vaginal contraceptive with spermicidal action based on nonoxynol-9. After using the product, in order not to lose the contraceptive effect, it is recommended not to wash with soap or other alkaline products. The use of Sterilin during pregnancy is not recommended.
- Patentex Oval is a German drug produced by Merz Pharma. The active ingredient is nonoxynol-9. When melted, it forms foam that prevents the penetration of sperm. The drug has an antiviral effect, protecting against STIs.
Barrier contraceptives
A common method of protection is barrier contraception. The use of condoms and vaginal rings blocks sperm from entering the egg and prevents their fertilization.
Nuvaring vaginal rings
Recommended for women aged 18 years and before menopause. The vaginal ring is made of a smooth and elastic material and contains the hormones ethinyl estradiol and etonogestrel. With their help, the ovulation process is suspended and fertilization does not occur.
Initial installation in the vagina is possible independently, since the ring is quite flexible and takes the desired shape. Nuvaring is comfortable and easy to use. It allows you to lead a full life without reducing your daily activity. In addition, Nuvaring treats a number of gynecological diseases. The duration of the drug is one menstrual cycle.
Advantages:
- Installation once every 3 weeks;
- Local medication;
- Minimum number of contraindications;
- Self-installation.
Flaws:
- Relatively high price;
- Dispensed with a doctor's prescription.
The absence of unpleasant sensations, as well as the improvement in overall health while normalizing hormonal levels, is what makes Nuvaring attractive for use.
Condoms Contex
One of the most common methods of contraception is the use of male condoms. These products are very popular. Many models are produced that differ in structure and size. Also, male condoms can be designed in a special way to enhance the sensations of both partners. Condoms protect not only from unwanted pregnancy, but also from sexually transmitted diseases, as well as HIV infection.
Advantages:
- Durable and elastic material;
- Does not affect sensitivity during coitus;
- The product is equipped with a certain amount of gel lubricant;
- Sale in pharmacies and shops.
Flaws:
- There may be a rubber smell.
Not only men, but also women respond positively to Contex brand condoms. There is no need to worry that the condom will fall off at a crucial moment. It is noted to be easy to use and put on. Convenient packaging and quality product.
What contraceptives are best to buy?
You need to choose contraceptives for women individually. There are several positions and risks. Hormonal contraceptives are best used by women under 35 years of age; at a later age, hormones can affect the occurrence of cervical erosion. A gynecologist will help you determine the appropriate option.
- The Evra contraceptive patch can be used without consulting a specialist.
- Married ladies, or those with a regular partner, should think about using birth control pills.
- If you are not planning to have a baby in the foreseeable future, you should consider the Nuvaring vaginal ring.
- If your sex life is not regular, you can choose Pharmatex vaginal suppositories.
- For one-time sexual intercourse or sex with casual partners, the Contex condom is easy to use.
- Mirena, an intrauterine device, will provide long-term protection against pregnancy. You can buy it at a pharmacy.
The rating uses the best contraceptives to prevent unwanted pregnancy. Thanks to the use of the drugs that make up the rating, you can plan your family life. And have children when you need it.
Composition and mechanism of action of vaginal contraceptives
Non-hormonal vaginal contraceptive suppositories are a group of local, chemical contraceptives that have a spermicidal effect. Today there are 2 types of drugs on the market, created on the basis of nonoxynol or benzalkonium chloride:
- When it is based on an active substance with nonoxynol, for example, as in the preparations Nonoxynol, Patentex-Oval, it will destroy the sperm membrane in 40 seconds, reducing its activity. Additionally, this group of contraceptive vaginal suppositories acts as a local antiviral drug, protecting a woman from vaginal chlamydia, the bacteria that causes syphilis. In addition, the drug reduces the sensitivity of the penis, which helps prolong sexual intercourse.
- A drug created on the basis of benzalkonium chloride, for example Pharmatex, Erotex, destroys sperm in 10-15 seconds. At the same time, it has an inhibitory effect on some of the simplest forms of bacteria and fungi that cause STDs.
Vaginal contraceptives may melt and foam. The former seem to envelop the vaginal mucosa, but cover it unevenly, the latter are distributed better, but their disadvantage is too much foam.