Contraceptives are used to prevent an unwanted or unplanned pregnancy. Contraceptives have roots as far back as the time of the Ancient Egyptians. Contraceptives, as they exist today, are a relatively new invention as latex condoms and hormonal birth control were introduced in the 20th century. There are several different types of contraceptives that are usually effective when used properly.
Function
Contraceptives are used to prevent pregnancies and to allow for people to plan ahead for conception. It is used when a woman, man or couple does not wish to have a child. Different forms of contraceptives are available for both men and women. Women generally take hormonal contraceptives that restrict the release of eggs from the ovaries to prevent pregnancy. Men may use condoms during sex to prevent sperm from entering the woman. By disrupting the ability of the sperm and egg to meet, contraceptives prevent pregnancy.
History
Primitive contraceptives were used thousands of years ago. Early forms of condoms were used as early as 1000 B.C. Rubber condoms were invented in the 1800s, and in 1919, latex condoms were introduced. Early forms of birth control for women included the use of herbs or other concoctions believed to prevent pregnancy. The birth control pill as it exists today was invented in the 1950s and received FDA approval in 1960. The birth control patch and ring were introduced in the early 21st century.
Types
The only current contraceptive for men is the condom, though scientists have been experimenting with a male birth control pill in the 21st century. Contraceptives for women include hormonal and barrier types. Hormonal types include birth control pills, birth control patch, insertable ring, hormonal injections and an implantable capsule that releases hormones. Barrier methods include the diaphragm, cervical cap, intrauterine device and contraceptive sponge. Spermicidal foam can also be used to kill sperm as it passes through the vagina.
Effectiveness
Hormonal and barrier methods of birth control are generally effective, but the effectiveness depends on how accurately the contraceptive is used. When used as instructed, condoms and the IUD can be 99 percent effective in preventing pregnancy. The birth control pill, injection, patch and ring are also 99 percent effective when used correctly. Spermicidal foam is about 82 percent effective, the diaphragm is about 94 percent effective and the cervical cap is about 91 percent effective. Missing doses of birth control or using contraceptives improperly increases the risk of the contraceptive failing.
Considerations
Many contraceptives do not protect against HIV, AIDS or other sexually transmitted diseases (STD). The only type of contraceptive that does protect against disease is the condom. The pill has also been shown to be effective at reducing acne and regulating menstrual cycles. There are also several side effects associated with some types of birth control. Hormonal birth control can cause weight gain, nausea and headaches. IUDs can cause allergic reactions or infections in some women. In rare cases, this can lead to infertility. The benefits and risks of contraceptives should be considered before beginning a regimen.
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