Thread by @AVONHMO

We passionately advocate for #SexualHealth and contraception for women and men to make informed choices.

So, before you select a birth control method, read this:

#AvonsPracticalTips #SexualHealthAwarenessMonth #HealthyLiving

1. What birth control options are available?

a. Barrier methods: condoms, diaphragm, etc.
b. Hormonal methods: birth control pills, implants, etc.
c. Intrauterine devices (IUDs)
d. Sterilization: tubal ligation, vasectomy.
e. Natural family planning.
#AvonsPracticalTips

1f. It's also important to be aware of emergency contraception—such as the morning-after pill (Plan B)—which can be used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex.

#AvonsPracticalTips #HealthyLiving

2a. How do the different birth control options work?

Birth control methods may:

- Prevent sperm from reaching the egg
- Inactivate or damage sperm
- Prevent an egg from being released each month

#AvonsPracticalTips #HealthyLiving

2b. Birth control methods may also alter the lining of the uterus so that a fertilized egg doesn't attach to it or thicken cervical mucus so that sperm can't easily pass through it.

Different methods, different effects, same goal.
#AvonsPracticalTips #HealthyLiving

3a. How effective are birth control methods?

First thing to note is that for any contraception method to be effective, it must be used consistently and correctly.

#AvonsPracticalTips #HealthyLiving

3b. Contraceptives that require little effort on your part, such as IUDs, contraceptive implants, and sterilization, are associated with lower pregnancy rates.
#AvonsPracticalTips #HealthyLiving

3c. In contrast, methods that require monitoring fertility or periodic abstinence are associated with higher pregnancy rates. The bottom line is that the right method is the one that you are comfortable with and willing and able to use.
#AvonsPracticalTips #HealthyLiving

4a. Is birth control reversible?

The method of contraception you choose depends on your reproductive goals. If you're planning a pregnancy in the near future, choose a method that's easily stopped/reversible, such as an oral contraceptive or barrier method.
#AvonsPracticalTips

4b. If you'd like to become pregnant—but not in the near future—you may want to consider an IUD. An IUD ensures a quick return to fertility once stopped, but it is expensive if you are going to use it only for a short time period.
#AvonsPracticalTips #HealthyLiving

4c. If you're certain that you don't ever want to have children or you're done having kids, you may prefer a permanent method, such as sterilization.

You may also find that different contraceptive options work for you at different stages of your life.
#AvonsPracticalTips

5. Is birth control compatible with your religious or cultural beliefs?

Some forms of birth control are considered a violation of certain religious laws or cultural traditions but it's all down to your personal convictions in the end.
#AvonsPracticalTips #HealthyLiving

6a. Is it convenient and affordable?

For some people, convenience suggests ease of use, no bothersome side effects, or no disruption of the sexual experience. For others, convenience means no prescription is required.
#AvonsPracticalTips #HealthyLiving

6b. When choosing a method of contraception, consider how willing you are to plan ahead or, if necessary, adhere to a rigid schedule. It's important to choose a type of birth control that suits your lifestyle.
#AvonsPracticalTips #HealthyLiving

6c. Some methods of contraception are inexpensive, while others are more costly. Ask your doctor for advice and then consider the expense as you make a decision.
#AvonsPracticalTips #HealthyLiving

7. What are the side effects of birth control?

Some methods such as those that contain estrogen or progesterone pose more side effects than others, such as condoms and natural family planning methods. Weigh your options with your doctors before deciding.
#AvonsPracticalTips

8. Does birth control protect against sexually transmitted infections?

Male and female condoms are the only methods of birth control that offer reliable protection from sexually transmitted infections. The end.
#AvonsPracticalTips #HealthyLiving

9. Does it offer other benefits?

In addition to preventing pregnancy, some contraceptives provide benefits like predictable, lighter menstrual cycles, decreased risk of STIs, etc. If these benefits are important to you, they may influence your choice.
#AvonsPracticalTips

10. Is your birth control method acceptable to your sexual partner?

Your partner may have birth control preferences that are similar to or different from your own. Discuss with them to arrive at a method that's acceptable to both of you.
#AvonsPracticalTips #HealthyLiving

Finally,

When you choose a birth control method, many factors come into play, including your age, health, emotional maturity, marital status, sexual relationships, and religious convictions.
#AvonsPracticalTips #HealthyLiving

Knowing your options is part of the decision process—but an honest assessment of yourself and your relationships is just as important when deciding which type of birth control is right for you.

#AvonsPracticalTips #HealthyLiving