In many ways, we’re living in a golden age of contraception. With more choice than ever, citizens are able to make informed choices and determine the best option for them as an individual. Rather than simply using whatever is prescribed to us, we’re able to take our sex lives into our own hands and make an informed decision. Below, we outline some of the best methods available for those who positively do not want to get pregnant yet.
The Implant
The implant is an increasingly popular option for women who are sure they don’t want to have children for at least three years. It’s effectively a small rod that is inserted under the skin of a woman’s upper arm that releases progestogen. More than 99% effective, the only potential drawback is that it sometimes causes acne to appear. If you decide in the three years that you would like to have children, it can be removed and everything will return back to normal.
The Pill
The main advantage of the pill is that it is easy to take and is reliable – around 95% reliable. Simply take the pill at the same time every day and you won’t have to think about unwanted pregnancies. It does have some side effects, however, so best to consult with a doctor before you begin taking it.
Vasectomy
Are you a man who is sure you don’t want to have children? Then it might be worth considering getting a vasectomy, which is a type of male sterilisation which stops sperm from travelling from the testicles. There are plenty of advantages to have the procedure done: it’s straightforward (only a general anaesthetic is necessary) and it means that you’ll never have to think about contraception in your life, ever. The vasectomy cost also pays off in the future, as you won’t have to worry about saving money for any unplanned children. It can also be reversed should you change your mind, though this isn’t as straightforward as getting it done.
The Condom
There’s a reason that the condom is still the go to option for contraception: it’s tried and tested, and also offers a range of benefits beyond just avoiding pregnancy, including stopping the spread of STIs. Whereas once the condoms that were distributed were pretty standard issue, today there’s a whole market dedicated to the latex product. They’re around 98% safe and don’t need any advance planning or procedures. There are instructions you need to follow, of course, so make sure you don’t get too wrapped up in the heat of the moment and forget to follow them.
Abstinence
Of course, we wouldn’t be doing our duty if we forget to tell you the number one contraceptive method: abstinence. It might not sound as glamorous or fun as all the other options we’ve listed, but it’s the only 100% way you can be sure of not having a child. Abstinence also comes with a host of other benefits, including keeping yourself safe from sexually transmitted infections and the emotions connected with sex, which can affect people in a vulnerable state.