Contraception | Contraception Information

What Is The Future Of Male Contraception?

2020-07-21T05:51:00.000-07:00

What Is The Future Of Male Contraception?

Contraception

Other contraceptive methods are well known and widely used male condoms and vasectomy famous. Some contraceptives vasectomy is irreversible. Once this is done permanently. MRU and the MPU male contraception, which prevents their appreciation. I respect that line, the sperm one medium to another, or relays. This pipe is blocked so that sperm can not get into the urethra during ejaculation. No semen released during sex, but it depends, it is reversible. Only a small or a small part of the case, which is usually locked. Fertility may return after a man and a known side-effects are minimal.

Other male contraceptive adherin. Membership is also one of the male contraception that interferes with the formation of sperm in the testicles. Way to prevent testicular cells to promote the mature sperm. Adherin have minimal side effects or not, even though tests on mice have shown that the introduction of adherin led to a very low sperm count. This is a preventive measure, which is still under investigation, and soon the market. Is disturbed after the normal development of sperm, the person can no longer be able to let go of the ability of sperm to fertilize an egg. Man is no longer fertile, but do not worry, because this is only temporary. Fertility after removal of contraceptive devices returned to normal within 3-4 months.

Another formula that is used for male contraception, the development of sperm, without preventing the level of NADPH in the body. Check the hormonal changes can affect certain functions of the human body. Prevention should be easy to use, little or no side effects. That is why these projects are still people in prevention research. Not yet officially launched on the market as a whole. In addition, sterilization, and condoms all the other men in the prevention study. Prevent sperm development is achieved through the introduction of injectable drugs in the body. Sometimes it may be a direct effect on contraceptive efficacy.

Androgen-progestin is the latest invention of male contraception. But even begin to smile, because, like other contraceptives is still in progress. You may have to wait several years before it officially on the market. Androgens and progesterone are required to hormones and chemical changes in the body that control or influence the development of sperm. The risk of terrible side effects of the toxic accumulation of pollutants in the body. Rats, but no evidence of toxic deposits of contraceptives. In addition to these risks, hormonal changes in the body interferes with the normal functioning of the body. Prevention is still being investigated these challenges .

About Intrauterine Contraceptive Devices

2020-07-21T05:47:00.000-07:00

About Intrauterine Contraceptive Devices

Contraception

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a form of contraception which placed directly into the uterus and remained there for several years, to provide a permanent form of birth control. They work by preventing the killing of sperm, either directly on the release of hormones or cause the body to release hormones in the womb. Experience with the implementation of a physician is required, but usually lasts less than an hour. Although almost certainly be adjusted to prevent a pregnancy, and require little care, you are at risk of unpleasant side effects or potentially dangerous.

Significance

Worm was the story of the Rock in 1970, when the Dalkon Shield device a number of complicated pregnancies is sold. However, the worm on the market as a safe and effective method of contraception after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, they are a choice, only 1 percent of women contraceptives in the United States. They are much more common in other countries, particularly China, where 30 percent of married women of childbearing age and have the equipment used, according to the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health.

Type

Modern spiral for use in the United States are permitted in two forms: the copper-T Mirena coil. Both are small T-shaped device in the uterus is a doctor brought, but differ on the way to prevent pregnancy. Copper-containing devices to stop the possibility of the penetration of sperm fertilize the end of the fallopian tubes, and the presence of the uterus stimulates the release of chemicals kill the sperm can. In addition, copper can be toxic to sperm. Mirena IUS to release a hormone that is directly harmful to sperm and eggs. Both were a success for more than 99 percent, but the Copper T-coil for 10 years or more valid if the Mirena IUD lasts only about five years.

Use

Worm has certain advantages over other methods of contraception. Its high success rate in long-term effectiveness is that they require little attention and allow for greater sexual spontaneity. Users can change the machine every episode, simply by controlling their supply chain, which is by listening to your finger into the vagina. Although the life cycle costs of the medical device can be expensive, the user can save money in the long term, because there are other methods of contraception is needed.

Disadvantages

One of the troublesome side effects, the thread has, especially copper coil T is a long and sometimes painful, can lead to anemia. This can sometimes perforation of the uterus wall, which does not reduce the performance, but can be painful. Mirena coil may cause other side effects, such as ovarian cysts, weight gain, increased blood pressure, acne and decreased sex drive. Both devices can also affect fertility after removal, particularly if they are introduced into the uterus or cause pelvic inflammatory disease. In rare cases it can cause severe damage to challenging the womb into the uterus. In addition, IUDs do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases, women need more protection, which they refer.

Conflicts

Use worm has been criticized by anti-abortion groups fear the destruction of the eggs to fertilize. Supporters of the device prevents the majority view of the sperm passes to reach the egg and the sperm, the egg is unable to perform the insemination. Both the World Health Organization and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists said the study, the worm can prevent fertilization and abortion. Physicians can use the worm, but as a kind of emergency contraception up to five days after sex, because they might interfere with the commitment of the egg to the uterus.

What Is The Best Contraception As I Approach Menopause?

2020-07-21T05:45:00.000-07:00

What Is The Best Contraception As I Approach Menopause?

Contraception

It is still contraception until they had a period of one year (if over 50) or two years (if under 50).

Prevention can be the risks and benefits of all ages, so this article attempts to summarize what they are.

Combined hormonal contraceptives ("the pill") proved to be safe to use until the age of 50, but there are a lot of evidence against them, and in the control group, to discuss the risks. There is a small dose of hormones that the pill could be useful for older women.

But there is no evidence that the pill the benefits that help maintain bone density and slow the development of osteoporosis has. In addition, even for periods of less bleeding and pain with which to take the pills. The combined pill may help symptoms of menopause, and tricycles (e-pill packets back to back) can give an advantage to continue.

There is no protective effect on cancer, including endometrial and ovarian cancer and may increase the risk of colorectal cancer, the last 15 years, the pill is stopped to reduce.

Is a slightly increased risk for breast cancer and cardiovascular diseases such as thrombosis. This figure is higher in smokers is not recommended for the pill after 35 years.

Progesterone contraceptives: in this daily pill, the injection every three months, coil, or levonorgestrel implants.

They are many benefits for older women. There are no links to cancer, whether the benefits or risks. It also seems to have no effect on cardiovascular disease and thrombosis, although there are studies that may increase blood cholesterol levels are. The side effect profile is often times more often to prevent a positive outcome, and the release of levonorgestrel coil is the treatment of choice for large painful menstrual periods.

Non-hormonal method of contraception:

Non Hormonal Contraception:

• Copper coil - this is sometimes associated with heavier periods and pain therefore has been replaced by the hormone containing coil unless hormones are contraindicated or personal preference is for a non hormonal alternative.

• Condoms - remain an effective form of contraception if properly used and also prevent sexually acquired infections so should remain the contraceptive of choice in individuals who are in short term relationships. Remember however if you are also requiring a lubricant - use water based only as an oil based lubricant ruptures the rubber.

• Diaphragms also remain a popular choice

If on hormonal contraceptives, lack of periods is not a reliable indicator of the menopause. A blood test will be required, but will only be helpful if you have stopped your contraceptive for a period of time.

Hormone replacement therapy does not contraception. If the hormone replacement therapy, in addition to the need of contraception - progestogen-only pills can be a useful addition. Type of hormone replacement therapy should be considered in contraceptive methods used.

When You Need Emergency Contraception?

2020-07-21T05:43:00.000-07:00

When You Need Emergency Contraception?

Contraception

Emergency contraception (EC) should not replace standard methods of contraception and abortion, but in reality it is an alternative for "emergency" for women to prevent pregnancy after an accident, violence, sex, contraception with unprotected sex. Pill, a progestin only birth control pills, especially as Plan B for women, the immediate action recommended to prevent pregnancy. These pills are recommended for women raped and sexually as well.

Pill, also known as the "Day", "EC" or "postcoital contraception" From a medical point of view known. But "tomorrow" does not mean that pill in the morning. It should be prescribed.

Types of contraception:

These documents are available in three forms, but usually there are two methods of tablets, and the second is a device called a cartridge. There are two types of progestogen-only contraceptives, as usual, Plan B pill combination (progestin and estrogen). Worm is also for the prevention and suggested that women who are allergic to estrogen-progestin pills or in principle. IUD device and said T-shaped plastic rope attached to the end. This is recorded and the cervix into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. A small chain hanging from the upper vagina thread.

Number of post-pill works?

Like other birth control pills, EC works by preventing ovulation (release or eggs) and prevent sperm to the egg for fertilization, so there is no pregnancy.

Get contraception?

EC must be done as quickly as sex taken. Progesterone pills like Plan B pills are available in two tables. The pills are to be taken immediately in the next 12 hours. Although the EC pill can last up to 5 days, totaling 120 hours, but the progestogen-only pills such as Plan B is effective up to 3 days or 72 hours.

Their effectiveness after unprotected sex can be considered in the following cases.

- 95% effective if taken within 24 hours

- 85% effective if taken within 24-48 hours

- 58% efficiency level of 49 to 72 hours

Increased by more than 72 hours of sex, you need the spiral (coil) to use in consultation with a doctor, because after 72 hours, the pill could be wrong.

That one should seek the help of contraception:

Well, it is designed to help in emergencies of pregnancy. Women are the EC, if

- Condom breaks or slips methods of contraception are during sex, remove the ring, or a diaphragm or cap.

- Women think they had sex with a "day of ovulation." These are important days that the chances of getting pregnant are very high.

- Women are being sexually abused, raped and forced to have unprotected sex.

Sensitivity to time are two important factors that determine the success and effectiveness of prevention

- How long does a woman have unprotected sex has taken place.

- Even if unprotected sexual intercourse with the same cycle.

This article gives an overview of the needs of contraception and should not be construed as medical advice. If so, please contact your physician or doctor for treatment.

Contraception Vs Religion - The Great Debate

2011-10-14T22:42:00.001-07:00

Contraception Vs Religion - The Great Debate

Despite the ongoing spread of STDs worldwide, most main religions around the world still negate the use of condoms and other forms of contraception, despite pre-marital sex being on the rise. No matter how diverse these religions seem to be, the general consensus among them is that it is better to champion the truth than come up against a mostly secular society.

The truth be told, whatever your religion, chances are that even talking about sex ranked way up there on the 'things-we-don't-talk-about-at-dinner' list. Even growing up in a semi-relaxed Moslem family, my parents still entrusted their children's sex education to chapter three of the school science textbook and, when they felt up to the challenge, short, inaccurate, stork stories.

The underlining truth of the matter is that religion is not equipped to deal with sex, much less with the more pressing matters that come along with it. Religion's attempts to address sexual issues with young people are typically narrow in scope and fail to satisfy basic needs for knowledge and reason. This is moral theology, at its most incompetent.

Religion isn't the only culprit when it comes to the ban on contraception. In many cultures worldwide, mindsets are formed against it. In Africa, there is a general unfavorable disposition towards contraception and homosexuality in general. Many cultures cultivate the idea that the male prowess is indicative of how many children he is able to sire.

The majority of belief systems also uphold that although it is generally wrong, contraception is allowed, at certain times, but within a limited extent. In Islam, progeny are seen as a divine blessing in which any attempt to prevent pregnancy is seen as rejecting God's blessings, unless health issues are involved.

Effectively, a new religion is emerging on the horizon: education. On a global scale, societies and the organizations that govern them are starting to catch on that the more educated people are about sex, the better their decision-making when it comes down to the grind. In more established countries, the movement is starting to show results. In impoverished nations, however, sex education still takes a backseat to much more prominent issues such as war and famine. Steps are being taken all the same. Efforts to reach out to impoverished nations by NGOs and charity bodies now also include handing out free condoms to sex workers and the women of large families overburdened to the point of starvation.

What it all boils down to, is that religions are going to have to 'adapt' their schools of thought to accommodate these very real, very pressing issues, and at the time not compromise the values they are built upon. The term 'the lesser of two evils,' being bandied about by the Roman Catholic Church is a turning point for one of the worlds largest religions and instigates the use of condoms when abstinence is no longer an option. A step that some might say, is in the right direction.

Religion beliefs aside, society must be made to understand that the main issue is not about outlawing contraception, but opposing extramarital sex. And given that the only kind of 'safe sex' you can have without contraception is within the context of marriage, in a world where God has many faces and names, it might be the only thing that makes perfect sense.

Contraception - Contraception Vs Religion - The Great Debate

The Safety of Using Condoms

2011-10-13T18:43:00.001-07:00

The Safety of Using Condoms

Yes, condoms are not used mainly for achieving sexual pleasures and sensations but also for safety purposes of those using them. Safe condoms would be those that could offer secondary benefits aside from just offering sexual enjoyment and satisfaction. Did you know condoms are now being used for collecting a mans fluids for treating infertile patients allover the world? And aside from that, although surprisingly unimaginable, these condoms are now said to be also used for preventing clogging in rifles and arms? For whichever purpose you may be using your newly bought safe condoms, it is very clear that the purpose is essentially for safety; such as that of preventing leakage and therefore avoiding unwanted pregnancies or the dreaded STD s, or the safety of your rifles and preventing them from clogging.

Safe Condoms

Condoms may not offer the greatest and 100 % safety in terms of preventing unwanted pregnancies but there is also a big percentage that it may help in reducing the number of the unwanted pregnancy statistics. These alone would qualify such rubber contraceptives to be labeled as " condoms". It would be a smarter move to use the simplest and most affordable means of contraception nowadays which is safe condom. Another aspect of safety in condoms is that these rubber contraceptives are able to help insulate you versus sexually transmitted disease as well as the dreaded AIDS, syphilis and many other sexual diseases.

As a matter of fact, history would tell us that condoms were not actually invented to prevent having a pregnancy but rather to prevent acquiring the various transmissible sexual diseases, such as syphilis. Truly, the condoms of today can be considered as safe condoms knowing the ultimate reason for their invention was due to being safe and protecting people from getting sexual diseases.

Always make it a point that before you use any kind of condom, you first have to check if they are indeed safe condoms? Look by the kind of materials used; whether it was made from latex, lambskin or polyurethane. They are all easily accessible, cheaper and eco-friendly especially if you do not mix them in water or anything fluid. These safe condom have elasticity of about 800% before they would break. While polyurethane is the type of material, made of plastic actually, that would best be kept away if you want to help protect our environment.

Expiry Dates And Safe Condoms

Also, remember that safety condoms are those that are within the expiry dates of manufacture when you use them. Otherwise, the latex material may have undergone degradation and therefore can lead to leakages and spills which of course, are dangerous, as it may lead to unwanted STD s and pregnancies. Other factors that cause the safety condoms to be otherwise include poor storage. Remember to always store your condoms in cool and dry places to ensure using condom at all times. And last of all, exposure to various substances such as oil may also increase the tendencies of your condoms to wear and degrade easily.

Contraception - The Safety of Using Condoms

Getting Pregnant - The Basics

2011-10-12T18:42:00.001-07:00

Getting Pregnant - The Basics

For many couples there are some basic questions that come up when considering the first steps towards preparing for conception to expect and how to prepare for conception.

One common question is, how soon before we start trying do we need to make changes?

It makes sense to consider making any lifestyle changes at least four months before trying to conceive. That's because it takes 4 months before conception for an egg to mature. This way, should you become pregnant your baby will be in the optimum environment during the first few weeks of cell growth and development.

I am using birth control, what do I do?

If you are currently taking birth control you will need to stop. This will depend on the method you are using. With barrier methods such as Condoms, Diaphragms, Cervical Cap, and Sponge you need to simple remove and or stop using them. With Hormonal Contraceptive you should allow 2-3 months for your body to adjust to regular periods before trying. (as a result if due date is important use a barrier method such as condoms during this time as it is 20-25% possible to get pregnant in the first cycle)

If you using an IUD this should be removed 1 cycle prior to trying while Hormonal implant or injection can last 3-6 months, therefore with hormonal conception such as the pill its best to consult your GP about coming off these types of contraception. Most commercial lubricants have been shown as harmful to sperm, so if you are using a lubricant during intercourse because of dryness choose a sperm friendly lubricant.

What are the chances of Pregnancy?

There is about a 20-25% chance of conception occurring in any month of trying, even when timing sex around ovulation, so don't be concerned if you don't conceive straight away. If you have stopped taking hormonal contraception recently its normal to allow 3-3 months for your normal menstrual cycle to resume.

What lifestyle changes should we consider?

We must obtain healthy habits and consider balanced diet. Following are the things which one should consider:

1. Diet and supplements
2. Weight (BMI) and exercise
3. Tracking my fertility (know my fertile days)
4. Other lifestyle, reducing stress, smoking cessation

Contraception - Getting Pregnant - The Basics

Methods of Contraception

2011-10-11T18:18:00.001-07:00

Methods of Contraception

If you are about to embark in a sexual relationship for the first time or you are already sexually active but are not aware of all of the forms of contraception that are available, this article can be used as a handy and informative guide. The right form of contraception can help to keep you safe and prevent unwanted pregnancies. The most common forms that are available are as follows:

Condoms

A popular choice when it comes to staying safe, condoms are usually made of latex and act as a barrier between two partners during intercourse. They help to greatly reduce the risk of catching an STI (sexually transmitted infection) and when being used regularly there is only a very slender chance of the condom splitting, which may in some cases lead to pregnancy. They have elastic properties and are waterproof and durable. Condoms are available in a number of different guises including ultra thin, flavoured, ribbed and dotted. They can be used for penetrative intercourse as well as for oral pleasures. Female condoms are also available.

The Contraceptive Pill

Also known as the combined oral contraceptive pill (COCP), the contraceptive pill or the pill for short is a method of birth control that uses a combination of hormones to inhibit fertility when taken every day. Although not a method of preventing the spread of STIs, the pill can regulate and often lighten periods and is thought to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer. However, if the contraceptive pill is not remembered to be taken, this can lead to pregnancy. The mini-pill (POP) can also be taken orally and is recommended for those who should not use the full pill - for example, older women, diabetics and women whose blood pressure has gone up on the pill.

Contraceptive Coils

Contraceptive coils (or intrauterine devices - IUDs) are usually used by young women who have had babies. Fitting inside the womb, the IUD is only the length of a matchstick and helps to inhibit pregnancy by preventing sperm from getting through the womb and into the tubes, making the womb lining less able to accept an egg and altering secretions in the cervix thus creating an additional barrier for sperm. Although they do not prevent STIs, they have a 98% effectiveness rate when it comes to birth control. The only notable drawback is that periods may become heavier.

Contraceptive Injection

Lasting for approximately three months, the contraceptive injection (usually injected into a muscle in the backside) contains hormones to help act against pregnancy becoming a reality by inhibiting ovulation. The good thing about having this injection is that unlike the contraceptive pill you do not have to remember to keep taking it. However, it does not prevent the transference of sexual infections and is not recommended for use by women who suffer from migraines.

Skin Patch

Only used by approximately 1% of women, the skin patch, also known as Evra, is an effective external version of the contraceptive pill which you stick onto the skin and works by releasing hormones that stop you from getting pregnant. As with most contraceptive methods this self-adhesive patch (which must be changed every seven days) does come with possible side effects including headaches, nausea and symptoms that are similar to flu. This method does not act as a barrier to STIs.

Withdrawal Method

Used by approximately 4% of the population, the withdrawal method is usually used by young couples or by people who do not use typical methods of contraception. It involves the male partner pulling out before ejaculation. This technique is considerably more risky than traditional forms of contraception if withdrawal is not done early enough and it doesn't prevent the spread of STIs. However, this method is better than not doing anything at all.

Whatever method of contraception you may wish to investigate, it is always best to discuss it with your partner and speak to your doctor first to make sure that you are familiar with all of the possible side effects.

Contraception - Methods of Contraception

Methods of Sterilization For Men and Women

2011-10-10T17:52:00.001-07:00

Methods of Sterilization For Men and Women

Sterilization is a highly effective and permanent method of birth control for both men and women. In simple terms, sterilization is a lifelong method of contraception for both men and women. It is very effective to prevent the union of the male sperm with the female egg and thus prevent pregnancy. In most cases, this method is safe and free of problems. Sterilization in men is called Vasectomy whereas in women, it is called Tubectomy.

Sterilization should be regarded as a once and for all procedure. It is not reversible. Through it is safer procedure for men than women, yet more women are sterilized than men because it is the women that bear the impact of pregnancy.

Scientists are now developing sterilization methods that do not involve surgery. Governments of several countries are encouraging such operation and offering several incentives as a part of birth control measures. There is now such a wide range of family planning methods that most couples should be able to find at least one that meet their needs.

Sterilization in Men and Women

Vasectomy is a minor surgical procedure which prevents the release of sperm when a man ejaculates. It involves making two small cuts in the scrotum in order to snip the duct known as Vas Deferens on each side and tie off the cut ends, so that sperm cannot travel into the man urethra and out of his penis. After a man has been sterilized, and once his semen no longer contains sperm, he cannot make a woman pregnant. But he can still have erection, ejaculation and enjoy sex in the same way that he did before he was sterilized.

Vasectomy is done by a trained doctor in ten to twenty minutes. After that, man can go back to work or continue with his usual routine within hours. This operation is done under a local anaesthesia so there is no pain.

Tubectomy is surgical procedure in which the female fallopian tubes are cut to prevent future pregnancies in women. This method of sterilization involves closing off both fallopian tubes so that ova cannot travel into the uterus. This means that the woman cannot get pregnant. But she still has menstrual period and can enjoy sex in the same way that she did before she was sterilized. She still ovules normally, but the egg is absorbed by the body instead of being shed during the period. This method is also very simple now.

Contraception - Methods of Sterilization For Men and Women

Using the Ovulation Calendar As a Natural Contraceptive

2011-10-09T17:46:00.001-07:00

Using the Ovulation Calendar As a Natural Contraceptive

Many couples nowadays are becoming much more aware of parental planning and the various forms of contraceptives. Not only is birth control an issue but it brings it into the realm of safe sex as well. Many women are now opting for natural contraception and one of the best methods for this is by keeping track of ovulation with a ovulation calendar.

There are many contraceptives that can now be purchased over-the-counter and it's a matter of what suits the individual most. Most often when individuals are looking at these various alternatives they are not quite sure what the differences are or if one is better than the other.

It must be remembered that none of them are 100% proof but there are a lot of conditions that determine how reliable they are. Each of them has a proper way of using them but unfortunately many people become lackadaisical when following the full instructions regarding these items and then if pregnancy occurs it is blamed on the OTC contraceptive in place of their wrong use. If ovulation is tracked with an ovulation calendar though it adds an extra precaution.

Condoms are probably one of the easiest and least expensive and most well known ways of birth control. Most women don't realize that there are female condoms as well or technically that they are called condoms. Usually if used properly then they are 98% effective with women. Female condoms even used perfectly may be a little less protective than the men's condoms. Those range around 95% safe. There are spermicides that can be used which are a little less effective than that and some individuals don't like using this particular type of birth control because they feel it is more of a chemical. These particular women are turning to the ovulation calendar to track their peak ovulation time.

The sponge method again comes under the same concepts of the spermicides although a little easier to use and the success rate for protection is around 91%. Another thing that contraceptives are dependent upon as well is the fact that whether a woman has been pregnant before or not.

Individuals that really do not want to be using any of these types of methods for whatever reason should consider using an ovulation calendar. The information that it can provide gives a couple the window of opportunity for protected sex. In the meantime, preventing a unwanted pregnancy is one of its attributes as well but there are some that scoff at this particular method and say that they have known many people where it is failed.

Again it comes down to being astute at following the directions of how the ovulation calendar will help you gather the information and what that information will do for you. Knowing when your ovulation time is, is the time to avoid any type of sexual contact. For those interested in natural birth control there is a great deal of information available regarding this and the proper use of the ovulation calendar and how they are easy and effective when proper instructions are followed.

Contraception - Using the Ovulation Calendar As a Natural Contraceptive

Disastrous Mistakes Men Make in Choosing Condom Sizes

2011-10-08T12:49:00.001-07:00

Disastrous Mistakes Men Make in Choosing Condom Sizes

Too many men let ego get in the way of selecting the proper condom size. What most people fail to realize is the using a condom that fits well is the most important factor in having intensely pleasurable, safe sex.

The Disastrous Results Of Using Ill Fitting Condoms

Due to the unfortunate emphasis men place on using larger condoms than needed, they think sex with a condom is "bad." This is because condoms that do not fit right reduce the sensation and intensity of pleasure.

When people believe that sex using condoms does not feel very good, they are less inclined to use them. The result is more and more people having unsafe sex, potentially contracting harmful sexually transmitted diseases and resulting in unwanted pregnancy.

The Proper Condom Results In Great Sex

A condom that fits well will give you more pleasure and better protection. Using the right size means they are less likely to break or slide off. In addition, due to the better fit, they transmit more sensation and warmth. What could be better than safe, highly pleasurable sex?

Choosing The Best Condom Size

For a lot of men, the average sized condom will fit well. These condoms are usually about 7 and a half inches long and 2 inches in width. This width translates into a girth of about 5 inches around. If you are under this length and close to this width, select an average size condom for best results.

Contrary to popular opinion, large, or magnum size condoms are not a lot bigger than average size condoms. They are about 8 inches long and will fit a man who is about 6 inches around in thickness. For these men, large condoms work well because they are not as restrictive and they are less likely to break.

Snug fit condoms are usually about the same length as average size condoms, but the main difference is in the width. These smaller condoms are about 1.75 inches wide when pressed flat. These condoms are great for men who are a little less thick than average because the condoms will not slide off easily like larger condoms and you will not have the problem of extra material reducing your pleasure.

Contraception - Disastrous Mistakes Men Make in Choosing Condom Sizes

Birth Control Pill - The New Generation Emergency Contraceptive Pill

2011-10-07T12:47:00.001-07:00

Birth Control Pill - The New Generation Emergency Contraceptive Pill

The emergency contraceptive pill, commonly known as the morning after pill or post-coital pill, are medicines that can be used by women to prevent unwanted pregnancy after having unprotected sex. Most emergency contraceptive pills can be used up to three days (72 hours) after having unprotected sex. ellaOne, however, is the new emergency contraceptive pill that can be taken up to five days (120 hours) after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. However, it is advised that you take it sooner as the medicine is more likely to prevent pregnancy if taken early. It may be noted that the emergency contraceptive pill should be used as a method of emergency contraception. You should not use it as regular form of contraception. Emergency contraceptive pills typically contain a female hormone type called levonorgestrel which works to prevent your ovaries from releasing an egg. Besides, it also changes the lining of your womb so that a fertilised egg cannot implant itself there.

What is ellaOne?
ellaOne is a new and innovative emergency contraceptive pill that can be used up to 5 days (120 hours) after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. The post-coital tablet has 98% success rate and is available only on prescription. You can take this medicine on prescription if your partner's condom has torn or come off during sex, or if you forgot to take your birth control pill or the morning after pill on time. The active ingredient in ellaOne is called ulipristal acetate. The compound works by modifying the activity of the natural hormone progesterone to stop your ovaries from releasing an egg.

ellaOne is marketed by HRA Pharma, a European pharmaceutical company. The new generation emergency contraceptive pill was launched in France, Germany and the United Kingdom in October, 2009.

How do I take ellaOne?
ellaOne emergency contraceptive pill is a prescription only drug and should therefore be taken only on the advice of your doctor. The medicine is available in the dosage strength of 30mg pill. You need to take one tablet orally within 5 days (120 hours) after you have had unprotected sex or experienced contraceptive failure. ellaOne can be taken either before, during or after a meal. You can also take ellaOne pill at any time during your menstrual cycle. In case, you vomit within 3 hours of taking an ellaOne tablet, consult your doctor.

Things to be noted when taking ellaOne for emergency birth control

ellaOne will not work if you have unprotected sex after you have taken the tablet. It is strongly recommended that you use a reliable contraceptive method when having sex Do not take ellaOne if you are allergic to any of the ingredients or if you suspect that you are pregnant If you are breast-feeding, leave a period of 36 hours following the consumption of ellaOne Emergency contraception capsules should only be used occasionally. You are advised not to take ellaOne pills more than once in the same menstrual cycle Certain medicines used to treat epilepsy, HIV infection, bacterial infections, herbal remedies used for depression or anxiety can make ellaOne less effective in preventing pregnancy ellaOne is an emergency contraceptive pill only; it does not protect you against sexually transmitted diseases

Contraception - Birth Control Pill - The New Generation Emergency Contraceptive Pill

Birth Control Option For Men

2011-10-04T02:14:00.001-07:00

Birth Control Option For Men

There are a lot of different methods of birth control available to women, yet for men it can be quite confusing as to what the woman in your life is doing to make sure she isn't going to get pregnant.

Yet, the truth is men only have two options when it comes to birth control.

Use a condomGet a VasectomyAs a man, If you don't want a child those are the only measures you can take to make sure you don't get her pregnant anytime soon.

Asking a woman what type of birth control she is on is absolutely worthless and about as accurate as asking her if she has any STD's.

There is no way to tell if she is on birth control, just like there is no law preventing her from having your baby even if you don't want it and she told you that she didn't want any kids.

Yet, there are laws that will make you pay for having a baby whether you want it or not.

In other words, failure to use a condom on your part puts you at risk to fathering a baby.

Now, it is true that some women are taking birth control and would not have a baby even if they were to get pregnant.

But, there is no good way to tell which women would actually have an abortion if they were to get pregnant.

Even women who have a history of doing that at anytime can change their mind and decide to keep your baby, leaving you with a monthly bill for the next 18 years of your life.

Contraception - Birth Control Option For Men

Latex and Condoms - The Allergic Reaction

2011-10-02T22:38:00.001-07:00

Latex and Condoms - The Allergic Reaction

Latex Allergies affect up to 1 in 13 consumers in the world. A very common allergic reaction, the extent of the reaction can range from mild skin irritation (dryness, itching, burning, scaling, and lesions of the skin) to more severe reactions like the above across a wider range of areas to extremely serious reactions. These serious reactions include hay fever-like symptoms, conjunctivitis (pink eye), cramps, hives, and severe itching. It is rare, but symptoms may progress to include rapid heartbeat, tremors, chest pain, difficulty breathing, low blood pressure, anaphylactic shock, or potentially, death.

If you believe you have a latex allergy, the first step is to see a doctor to confirm the diagnosis. This can be conducted on an out-patient basis, but will help to rule out any other potential causes.

Once confirmed, the safer sex industry has produced a large variety of non-latex condoms. These condoms, produced from other substances than natural rubber will not cause an allergic reaction. Some of the most popular brands in this space include:

Lifestyles Skyn Condoms - the Lifestyles Skyn Condoms are the most popular non-latex condoms, using polyisoprene. With the strength of latex condoms and an extremely sensation, it is also the cheapest non-latex condom on the market. As a Polyisporene condom, only water based lubricants should be used to avoid damage and compromise of these condoms.

Durex Avanti Bare Condoms (Box of 36) - the Durex Avanti Condoms are also polyisoprene made condoms, introduced after the Lifestyles Skyn Condoms. With the backing of the popular Durex brand behind it, these condoms are specially shaped for a more comfortable fit. As a Polyisporene condom, only water based lubricants should be used to avoid damage and compromise of these condoms.

Trojan Supra Non-Latex Lubricated Condoms - The Trojan Supra Non-Latex condom is made of strong, ultra-thin micro sheer polyurethane to provide a high degree of comfort and an alternative.

Trojan NaturaLamb Lubricated Condoms - Lastly, perhaps the most expensive non-latex substitute, are the Trojan NaturaLamb condoms. Made from a natural memberange taken from lambs, they are treated with a unique jelly-type lubricant and rolled for your further comfort and convenience.

Contraception - Latex and Condoms - The Allergic Reaction

Morning After Pill - The Ethical Issues

2011-10-02T22:37:00.001-07:00

Morning After Pill - The Ethical Issues

The morning after pill has been widely promoted as a contraceptive pill, to be more precise, as an emergency contraceptive pill. The pill has to be taken within short interval of unprotected sexual intercourse to prevent unwanted pregnancy.

Critics have raised serious doubts about its mechanism of action. They believe that the action of the morning after pill is abortifacient and not contraceptive. However, people who are pro- morning after pill say that, the pill has an anti- implantation effect (preventing the implantation of the fertilized egg, also called embryo to the wall of the uterus). Thus, the effect is "interception", which is distinct from abortion.

As per a study conducted by American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), emergency contraception can prevent at least 1.5 million out of the 3 million unwanted pregnancies that occur in the United States each year. However, Medical professionals concerned with ethical issues believe that, this controversial pill does not prevent pregnancy every time and at least in some cases, it does kill a developing embryo. And, that makes the pill an abortifacient.

To decide whether morning after pill is an abortifacient or a contraceptive, it becomes important to understand the definition of pregnancy.

The definition of pregnancy as defined by ACOG is "successful implantation of a fertilized egg". However, embryologists believe that pregnancy begins with fertilization and not implantation as claimed. This is so because an embryo has all the genetic information required for it to become a complete human being.

Scientifically, the human zygote formed after fertilization of egg is an actual human being and not "something", that can possibly develop into a human being. It has the ability to grow further and develop its capacities to full potential.

As per FDA, the emergency contraceptive pills are supposed to work by preventing or delaying ovulation. However, if the egg has been fertilized before or despite the effect of the pill, then the action of the morning after pill is believed to be abortifacient.

The pill creates a hostile environment for the embryo in the uterus and it is unable to attach to the uterine lining. This leads to its ultimate death and expulsion from the body.

Critics believe that the anti implantation action of the morning after pill is nothing more than a "chemically induced abortion". It is said that people are being deceived by redefining pregnancy as implantation of the embryo.

Those in favor of the pill argue that the action of the pill cannot be abortifacient because if the pregnancy is already established then the pill doesn't have any effect.

Women should have enough knowledge to make an informed decision regarding the use of morning after pills.

Contraception - Morning After Pill - The Ethical Issues

CAMOX Iron Grip Condoms in Review - Snugger Fit Condoms

2011-10-01T22:34:00.001-07:00

CAMOX Iron Grip Condoms in Review - Snugger Fit Condoms

Do you find that when you use a condom during sexual intercourse that the condom has a tendency to fall or come off without any effort on your part?

Odds are you are using a condom that is too big for your penis and if you aren't using a Magnum or XL type condom then whether you like it or not you are going to have to start using a "Snugger fit" condom if your sexual health is important to you.

In this article, we will review one of the more popular "Snugger fit" condoms on the market today which is CAMOX Iron Grip condoms.

CAMOX Iron Grip Condoms in Review- Snugger Fit Condoms

Iron Grip condoms measure in at 6.69 inches in length and 1.92 inches in width which means it is only slightly smaller than the majority of condoms that are on the market today. In other words, odds are if these fit just right the woman that you are with isn't going to really notice how small you are when compared to other men.

Of course, if you do feel as if having a smaller penis is an issue there are a variety of different penis enlargement pills and methods on the market that might be able to put your mind at ease and maybe even allow you the opportunity to trade in your Iron Grip condoms for the Magnum Brand of condoms.

In any case, Iron Grip condoms are lubricated with a water based lube which means make sure you have a bottle of your own personal favorite personal lubricant as more often than not the powder inside the condom doesn't get wet without a whole lot of help.

Also as with all the CAMOX brand of condoms it is N-9 and spermicidal free which means it is extra important that the Iron Grip be maintained throughout the entire sexual experience.

Contraception - CAMOX Iron Grip Condoms in Review - Snugger Fit Condoms

Prevention of Unwanted Pregnancy With Emergency Contraception

2011-09-30T22:31:00.001-07:00

Prevention of Unwanted Pregnancy With Emergency Contraception

Accidents do occur in life and even though you cannot always prevent them from happening, you can surely take steps to minimise the damage. To a woman who is not ready to conceive because of personal or social reasons, an unprotected sexual intercourse is similar to an accident. But you no longer have to live with the fear of pregnancy as long as you have access to emergency contraceptive pills or morning-after pills. Speaking of emergency contraception and ellaOne and Levonelle have turned out to be the medicines of choice for millions of women worldwide.

A step ahead of your worries

The worst part about unprotected sex is that it does not give you the chance to be proactive in defense. Whatever you can do, you have to do it afterwards. Using an unreliable birth control pill can put you under further depression and worry because of your lingering doubts over the safety and effectiveness of the pill you have just taken. So you must find a pill which is clinically tested to be effective and safe for most women.

ellaOne - The trusted One

When there is a need to prevent an unwanted pregnancy, ellaOne helps 98 out of every 100 women. That speaks for reliability and safety of a medicine. ellaOne emergency contraceptive pills can be your second line of defense just in case the condom gets broken or your regular contraceptive pill fails to work. You have to take it within 120 hours from unprotected sex.

How does ellaOne work?

The active ingredient in ellaOne progestin-only pills is ulipristal acetate. This ingredient is actually a man-made version of a naturally occurring sex hormone in the female body known as progesterone. Just like the natural hormone, ulipristal acetate prevents the release of eggs from ovaries, which prevents unwanted pregnancy.

Levonelle - A very good morning after!

Should anything goes wrong the night before, Levonelle is there for you to greet the next morning with less tension and more relief. When taken within 72 hours from sex, this pill has a safety record of 85%.

However, if you take this pill within 24 hours of unprotected sex, the effectiveness of this pill increases to 95%. The effectiveness rate of ellaOne is also 95%, so Levonelle also has a good performance record.

Important safety information about emergency contraceptive pills

Many women misunderstand the working of emergency contraceptive pills and feel they can also help protect them from sexually transmitted infections. However, this is far from the truth. Morning after pills can only help prevent pregnancies, in fact, it can not even terminate pregnancy. If you are already pregnant, it will not help you in any way. However, if you suspect you are already pregnant, you must not take these pills as they can prove dangerous to the health of unborn child.

You mustn't breastfeed a child directly after taking any morning after ills. Let at least 36 hours pass before you breastfeed again You must not take this pill if you have liver conditions Talk to your doctor in case you are taking any other medicines for epilepsy Emergency contraceptive pills are not recommended with any medications for bacterial infections Get a pregnancy test done immediately, if it has been a week and you still haven't got your period

Contraception - Prevention of Unwanted Pregnancy With Emergency Contraception

The Plan B Pill - What It Is and What It Isn't?

2011-09-29T22:28:00.001-07:00

The Plan B Pill - What It Is and What It Isn't?

The Plan B pill, also known as the "morning after pill," is the backup plan for times when your birth control method has failed, has been forgotten, or you weren't on any form of birth control, and you don't want to get pregnant. Whether you've missed a few pills, the condom broke or slipped off, or you forgot to insert your diaphragm, etc., you can count on the Plan B pill.

The only FDA-approved emergency contraceptives available in the US are Plan B, Plan B One-Step, and Ella. Plan B and Plan B One-Step are available over-the-counter to women 17 years of age or older, Ella is only available by prescription.

The pill can be taken up to 72 hours after unprotected sex, but the sooner you take it the more effective it will be.

What It Is
It is one of the first and only forms of emergency contraception available on the market today.

What It Isn't

it is NOT an abortion pill (do not take if already pregnant, or you think you are) it is NOT protection from HIV / Aids or any other sexually transmitted diseases or infections (STDs or STIs) it is NOT a long-term pregnancy prevention plan (it only works for this one incident after taken) it is NOT a regular form of contraceptive (if you're sexually active, discuss available contraceptives with your doctor) it is NOT a substitute for routine birth control

What It Does

Temporarily stops the release of an egg from the ovary Prevents fertilization If the egg is already fertilized, it prevents the egg from attaching to the uterus

The Plan B pill contains a form of progestin called levonorgestrel which works by preventing ovulation and may also interfere with fertilization of an egg. It is also possible that it prevents implantation of a fertilized egg in your uterus by altering its lining.

The Plan B Pill is not an abortion pill. If you are pregnant, or think you might be, you should not take it however there is no evidence that it will harm you or the fetus.

Pros and Cons
There are two main benefits associated with the Plan B pill:

They decrease the risk of an unintended pregnancy by up to 89% There is no known risk of harm to the fetus if you do get pregnant or are already pregnant

There are several disadvantages to emergency contraceptive pills:

Women under 17 cannot get these pills without a doctor's prescription The pills must be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex to be effective Side effects may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, breast tenderness, and headache The pills do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases

There are no medical restrictions on taking the Plan B pill more than once a month however it should only be used in emergency situations. The idea behind it is that you only have to take it once, or very rarely. Plan A is always the best choice so it's important that you speak with your doctor regarding a long-term contraceptive plan that's best for you.

Contraception - The Plan B Pill - What It Is and What It Isn't?

CAMOX Night Warrior Condoms in Review

2011-09-28T18:16:00.001-07:00

CAMOX Night Warrior Condoms in Review

Perhaps you have heard all of the rave reviews about CAMOX Night Warrior condoms and decided to do a search to see if you could discover what makes this particular style and brand of condom such a winner with the women.

In this article, we will reveal to you everything you need to know about CAMOX Night Warrior condoms so that you can determine for yourself if making the switch to this particular brand of condom is going to be the right choice for you.

CAMOX Night Warrior Condoms in Review

One of the biggest reasons why women truly find more pleasure with this particular condom is that it is ribbed, studded and contoured specifically to bring her ultimate sexual experience while keeping both of you sexually protected and safe as well.

The Night Warrior features 10 rows of ribs at the condoms head, raised studs at the base, with a contoured shape in between. In other words, be prepared to drive her crazy all night long with pleasure.

While the Night Warrior is lubricated with an ultra smooth silicone based lubricant, it is always in your best interest to have a bottle of your own favorite personal lubricant on hand as it is always better to be prepared than not. As with all of the CAMOX brand of condoms, it is N-9 free which means it doesn't have any spermicide in or on it.

This particular condom has a length of 7.1 inches in length and a 2 inch width which means it is a little thicker than your average condom with an average length. Overall, CAMOX Night Warrior Condoms are definitely a must try for any man who feels as if he has the thickness required to give this condom a try. After all, the only way you can ever truly know if a condom is the right fit for you and your partner is by putting it on and taking it out for a test run or two.

Contraception - CAMOX Night Warrior Condoms in Review

Teenagers and the Pill

2011-09-27T18:15:00.001-07:00

Teenagers and the Pill

Has your teenage daughter lately shown signs such as increased weight, headaches, mood swings, menstrual irregularities, dizziness or nausea? These are amongst some of the minor side effects of taking the contraceptive known as The Pill.

Perhaps the doctor has prescribed the oral contraceptive to relieve her period pain or improve her skin and it is taken primarily as a medication for these complaints. However more doctors are comfortable about the medication for teenagers because of the breakdown in restraint of all kinds in the community and the likelihood that a teenage girl will already be experiencing sexual activity. The Pill is therefore considered by the doctor 'as a precaution.'

Although surveys show that many women have taken it for many years, even from the age of 12, and often without any serious side effects, it is usually only a matter of time before there is a potential development of severe health disturbances. These include heart disease, stroke, depression, headaches, infertility, thrombosis, cancer and breast cancer in particular. It is a serious medical issue of our times. Many consider the so called benefits of oral contraceptives are beginning to be outweighed by the demonstration that extreme health problems, in particular mental conditions and cancer, are a direct result of the birth control pill.

Most teenagers have a short term perception of a future and cannot consider that anything negative will develop from anything that they choose to undertake or become involved with. Very few of them have the wisdom to use restraint therefore, and are easy prey to the temptations offered by their peers. This seems to be most commonly in matters of drugs and sexual experimentation.

Therefore it is a difficult argument to try to use in getting them to change, if your feel that their behavior is in error. However in the serious matters related to health and to sexual activity, there must be strong encouragement from the home front to counter the pull of peer pressure that entices them to venture prematurely into the hazardous area that by nature is designed to produce babies.

A teenager with a baby is not the ideal situation, although it may happen often enough. The main thing is surely to be observant but not threatening in your caring of your daughters and in learning the wisdom how to approach your sons so that both become responsible adults.

Good luck!

Contraception - Teenagers and the Pill

Sexual Health: 3 Preferred Macrobiotic Methods of Contraception

2011-09-26T16:35:00.001-07:00

Sexual Health: 3 Preferred Macrobiotic Methods of Contraception

Have you been practicing macrobiotics and started to wonder about how it impacts your sex life? We've got all the secrets you ever wanted to know about macrobiotics and sex, but were afraid to ask.

It might surprise you to learn that many relationship challenges can be linked to poor contraceptive choices. Along with eating healthy and adopting a macrobiotic lifestyle, choosing the right method of contraception can create heightened pleasure and intimacy in your partnership.

The kind of contraceptive you use impacts not only your physical and sexual health, but also the spiritual closeness of your relationship. To enhance intimacy without taking pills or drugs, choose one of these three contraceptives:

1. Condoms

Most birth control methods are artificial and will produce harmful side effects. Some types of contraception, such as vasectomy and intra-uterine devices, can even disrupt the flow of electromagnetic energy in the man or woman and cause serious long-term health consequences. For that reason, it's important to choose a technique that is less invasive and healthier for everyone concerned, while still ensuring safe sex.

Condoms are the safest of the non-invasive methods of contraception, especially for women. However, if condoms contain spermicidal lubricant, there may be some irritation in the vaginal walls. Another drawback of condoms is the way they act as an artificial barrier, causing some decrease in sensation that can interfere with energy flow and exchange.

2. Diaphragm with Spermicidal Jelly or Cream

A diaphragm with spermicidal jelly or cream is a safer method of contraception compared to the long-term health issues related to the pill. However, it does have health risks, so this method should be reserved for sporadic use. Chemical toxins found in spermicidal gel can be absorbed through the vaginal walls and into the bloodstream, causing undue stress to the liver and other detoxifying organs. Because these agents can also create allergic reactions, douching with warm salt water after use can help reduce vaginal irritation.

3. Natural Birth Control

Natural birth control is the least dangerous for your health, but it's also the least reliable. This method is dependent on knowing the exact date of ovulation and avoiding intercourse for a few days before, during, and after the time you're expecting to ovulate. A macrobiotic diet makes it easier for any woman to establish a regular 28-day cycle, rendering this an easy form of birth control.

Sperm have the ability to fertilize for two days, but can survive in the womb for up to 14 days. This is not a guaranteed method of birth control, but contraceptives all involve some degree of risk. From a macrobiotic point of view, this method promotes the highest degree of sexual intimacy and physical health.

Building a strong, vibrant, intimate relationship requires a very love-conscious take on macrobiotics. What's most important in your relationship is love, which can be nurtured through sex as well as other forms of intimacy: touch, open communication, honesty, and support.

Contraception - Sexual Health: 3 Preferred Macrobiotic Methods of Contraception

Amore Condoms Review

2011-09-25T16:20:00.001-07:00

Amore Condoms Review

At this point in time, protecting yourself from STD's and unwanted pregnancies is of the utmost importance. One very effective way of protecting yourself is through the use of condoms.

In this article, we will review Amore Condoms which is one of the more popular brands of condoms on the market today.

Amore Condoms in Review

The primary concerns when it comes to choosing a condom are strength for dependability and safety as well as sensitivity for pleasure and satisfaction. Thankfully, Amore condoms offer you the best of both worlds as it is one of the strongest condoms that can still provide you with sensitivity that is on the market today.

Of course, while Health Clinics and Educators would like for you to believe that condoms are a one size fits all application, the truth of matter is that the bigger your penis is the bigger your condom is going to need to be. Also the strength and firmness of your penis is going to play a role in what kind of condom is going to be best for you.

Amore Condoms are 7.8" inches in length and 1.375 inches in width which falls right about in the average size in regards to length and a little less than average in regards to width.

Amore condoms also come lubricated, however, as with most lubricated condoms you are going to want to apply some of your own personal favorite personal lubricant on it as well as the dry powder lubricant requires more additional saliva or lubricant than it comes with especially if your partner suffers from Vaginal dryness.

Overall, Amore condoms are primarily used in by Health Care Organizations, Hospitals and Universities even though a variety of different stores online and offline sell them as well.

Contraception - Amore Condoms Review

Is It Safe to Buy Condoms Online?

2011-09-24T16:18:00.001-07:00

Is It Safe to Buy Condoms Online?

Here's a quick reference guide for you to consider when shopping from condoms online.

1. Is it a legit business? Does the website have a Business Name e.g. Biz Name LLC.?
2. Do they offer free shipping?
3. Does the package come discreetly?
4. Can you buy through Paypal? (makes sure you can dispute a problem)

These 4 things will almost always keep your "money safe." After that its really just about whether or not the price is right, and they do a good job on the first order. You may even want to consider buying condoms from a company that is obviously legit... but also appears to be a little smaller next to competition.

Now, I know your probably thinking... The little guy? but if you give me a second I will explain. In a market like condoms, in order to compete with these larger companies, the little guy usually has to provide either: faster shipping, lower prices, better deals, and an all around higher quality service in order to ensure that they KEEP the customers they do get! Are you starting to understand? You can get really great deals on condoms by getting them online, instead of in the store.

In the same sense you can get a great deal on condoms online, but if you really know where to look you going to be shocked at the types of deals companies are offering just to get you in there door and say, "Hey, I'll do a good job for you!"

Contraception - Is It Safe to Buy Condoms Online?

Contraceptive Pills and Condoms - Effective Methods of Contraception

2011-09-23T16:14:00.001-07:00

Contraceptive Pills and Condoms - Effective Methods of Contraception

Contraceptive pills and condoms are the two most popular options for preventing pregnancy. It is important for everyone, especially teens, to know about both these options. Let us explore both the options in detail.

Facts about condoms

Condoms can provide protection against sexually transmitted infections as well as an unwanted pregnancy if you use them properly. While condoms fail at times, they are definitely helpful in decreasing the risk associated with infections that are transmitted sexually. Use condoms exactly as directed on the package or else you might be inviting an infection or a pregnancy. Research has shown that the failure rate of condoms rises if you do not use them properly. Some people think that using two condoms doubles the protection. But the fact is that using two condoms increases the risk of them getting torn by extra friction. Use only one condom at a time and dispose it immediately after use. If you use oil based lubricants such as cold cream, baby oil or petroleum jelly with condoms, the condom can break. It is advisable that you use only water based lubricants with condoms. Do not store condoms in your wallet or any other warm place.

Facts about contraceptive pills
These pills are effective in preventing pregnancy depending on how they are used. If used as directed by the doctor, they are about 97-99% effective. One of the reasons some people do not get desired results while using contraceptive pills is that they do not use them properly. For example, you need to take the pill at the same time everyday without missing even a single pill but if you miss a pill or take it at a different time, there are chances that you will get pregnant. Some contraceptive pills are also known to control and prevent acne and reduce cramps that many women experience during their menstrual cycle. Let us have a look at some effective contraceptive pills.

Cilest
Cilest, which is a hormonal contraception, is used for preventing pregnancy, treatment of menstrual disorders and endometriosis. It works by overriding the menstrual cycle. It contains synthetic version of female sex hormones and tricks the body into believing that ovulation has already occurred. This prevents the egg from getting fertilised.

Micronor
This contraceptive pill is commonly known as the "mini pill". It works in three ways. Firstly, it affects the natural mucus that is present in the neck of the womb. Further, Micronor thickens the mucus and this makes it more difficult for sperm to reach the womb via the vagina. Lastly, it makes it tough for the egg from getting implanted on the wall of the womb.

Dianette
This medication, just like other combination pills, works by tricking the body into believing that ovulation has already occurred. Dianette prevents the ripening of the egg and increases the thickness of the cervical mucus.

Contraceptive pills do not protect you against sexually transmitted infections. No matter what medication you are about to use, consult a doctor before using it. Only a good doctor can decide which pill is good for you and which one will suit your body well.

Contraception - Contraceptive Pills and Condoms - Effective Methods of Contraception

Birth Control And Contraception Methods

2011-09-22T11:41:00.001-07:00

Birth Control And Contraception Methods

In our times, the contraception usage and the voluntary fertility control has the great importance to whole society. From a global perspective, all of us currently face the crisis of rapid population growth that has begun to threaten human survival. By scientific data, without using any contraception methods, the population of the world will double in less than 40 years (if it will continue to grow with a present rate - but, unfortunately, it is progressive!). That's why the world population now facing a great hazard to the human being at the not-so-far future!

So, in the modern era each couple should take the responsibility and look very closely at their family planning!
One or both members of a couple should use contraception to avoid pregnancy temporarily or sterilization to prevent pregnancy permanently. Induced abortion (elective termination of pregnancy) can be used to correct failures of contraception. The couple's decision to begin, prevent, or interrupt an unwanted pregnancy may be influenced by professional counseling, prenatal diagnosis or genetic counseling.

The contraception methods most commonly used in the USA and Western Europe are:
Barrier contraception methods

o Diaphragms and Cervical Cap
o Condoms
o Intrauterine devices (IUD)
Chemical and hormonal contraceptives
o Oral steroid contraceptive pills
o Subdermal Contraception Implants
o Spermicidal contraception (sperm-killing contraception agents)
Natural contraception methods
o Withdrawal (coitus interruptus)
o Periodic abstinence
Surgical Contraception
o Female surgical sterilization
o Male surgical sterilization

While choosing one of the contraception methods, the advantages and disadvantages of each contraception technique should be explained by the specialist, so that the woman can choose the one most suitable contraception type for herself and her partner. Many factors affect rates of contraception usage failure, such as:

o Age
o Level of education
o Degree of motivation
o Professional follow-up

All of them are inversely related to the contraception failure rates.

In general, contraception methods used at the time of coitus (eg, diaphragm, condom, foam, sponge, withdrawal) are more effective in theory than in practice.

Overall effectiveness of contraception is greater with methods unrelated to coitus (eg, oral contraceptives, IUDs) because patient involvement is simpler. Over a period of years, pregnancy use rates are

Contraception - Birth Control And Contraception Methods

Birth Control Pills, Pregnancy and Acne - A Complete How-To Guide

2011-09-22T11:40:00.001-07:00

Birth Control Pills, Pregnancy and Acne - A Complete How-To Guide

Acne first comes about during adolescence, when hormone levels begin to increase.This sudden flucturation of hormones causes the sebaceous glands to go into overdrive. They start generating increased levels of such oils that end up becoming clogged inside the glands. When the oils can't escape, acne results!

So it goes without saying that when there is a fluctuation in the hormone levels within the body, it can trigger an increase in sebaceous oil production, and therefore increases the chance that an outbreak of acne will likely occur. With women, acne breakouts are common while they are taking birth control pills and also when they become pregnant.

Using Birth Control Pills to Control Acne

Women who do take the birth control pill and who notice that their acne is getting worse should discuss the situation with their doctor. Different types of oral contraception have differing levels of hormones and one side effect of some contraception is an increase in acne. Switching to another brand may bring acne back under control.

Any woman who is healthy, and is at least age 15, who has begun menstruating and who has decided to start using oral contraception can discuss getting a prescription for a birth control pill with their doctor. There are several brands that help clear up acne but only one so far has been approved by the FDA for treatment of acne and that is Ortho Tri-cyclen.

It is important to note that taking the birth control pill as a way to treat acne should be the last alternative, after all other acne treatment options have been attempted without success. The birth control pill does have side effects and it must be taken exactly as prescribed to be effective.

Acne During Pregnancy

Women who have become pregnant often report an increase in acne, too. Many changes occur within a woman's body in an effort to properly prepare the body for the growing fetus. The two primary female hormones at work in every woman's body are progesterone and estrogen. Progesterone is more androgenic than estrogen, which basically means it is more like the hormones found in men. Increased progesterone during pregnancy can cause the sebaceous glands to produce more sebaceous oils than normal and that is what can cause outbreaks of acne.

If possible, the best way to handle acne during pregnancy is to realize that it is a short-term problem that will usually go away once the baby is born. If this isn't possible, discuss your options over with a dermatologist who has experience working with patients during their pregnancy. After going through your situation, the dermatologist will be able to suggest treatment options that'll make you happier with your appearance and that won't harm your baby.

Contraception - Birth Control Pills, Pregnancy and Acne - A Complete How-To Guide

Durex Pleasuremax Condoms in Review

2011-09-21T11:35:00.001-07:00

Durex Pleasuremax Condoms in Review

Are you interested in discovering a condom that can ensure maximum stimulation and sexual pleasure for both you and your partner?

Of course you are! And in this article you will discover what makes Pleasuremax condoms a likely choice to do exactly that.

Durex Pleasuremax Condoms in Review

The first and definitely one of the most important things you simply must know about Pleasuremax is that it is shaped and textured for maximum pleasure for both partners.

Perhaps you are wondering how it exactly accomplishes this, so let me be one of the first to tell you.

Pleasure Max condoms have two sections of ribs that contain 8 ribs on the top and 24 ribs on the bottom. In addition to the ribs it also contains hundreds of raised studs or dots that are sure to increase her pleasure.

As if that wasn't enough, Pleasuremax condoms also have a flared wider top that will increase both the comfort and pleasure for him as well.

The exact measurements of Durex Brand Condom Pleasuremax is 8.375" inches long, with a flare head 1.75" inches wide and a 1.5" inches wide at the base.

Also, it is important to remember that to enhance your sexual experience with any brand or style of condom having a bottle of your own personal favorite sex lube is always a good and idea. In addition, applying a female stimulating cream or gel underneath the hood of her clitoris is a great way to warm her up as well.

Overall, Pleasuremax condoms are the kind of condoms that need to be experienced in the bedroom to get a complete understanding of just how powerful and extraordinary they real can be, after all you never really know which condom is going to be the perfect fit condom for you until you have taken it for a test run or two.

Contraception - Durex Pleasuremax Condoms in Review

Do You Have Birth Control High Blood Pressure Concerns?

2011-09-20T05:25:00.001-07:00

Do You Have Birth Control High Blood Pressure Concerns?

Birth control high blood pressure symptoms can be a problem for women taking certain types of hormonal contraceptives. The two birth control methods that pose the most risk include the birth control pill and the birth control patch.

However, not every woman who uses these methods of birth control will experience high blood pressure, as there are many factors involved that generally determine the degree of risk each woman faces.

Nevertheless, the reason why hormonal birth control high blood pressure risk exists, is because these contraceptives contain progestins. Progestin is a type if drug that mirrors the activity of the hormone progesterone which naturally occurs in the female body.

It is common for progestin to slightly raise the blood pressure in most women who take hormonal birth control, and it is the cause of high blood pressure when it occurs.

The risk of birth control causing high blood pressure increases for a woman based on the following factors:

 Age - As a woman ages (usually mid 35 and older), her chances of developing high blood pressure increases.
 Duration of use - The longer a woman uses the pill or patch, the greater the chances of high blood pressure occurring.
 Pre-existing condition - Women who have previously experienced episodes of consistent high blood pressure, even only if it was during pregnancy, are at a greater risk.
 Family history - Women who have a family history of hypertension could be at a greater risk.
 Obesity - a woman who is obese has a greater risk of developing high blood pressure.

Hormonal contraception is one of the most convenient and effective methods of birth control, but it is a fact that high blood pressure occurs 2- 3 times more frequently in women who take hormonal contraceptives than those who use other methods.

Therefore, if you take the pill or are using the patch - regardless if you have any of the above increased risk factors or not - have your doctor check your blood pressure every year.

Should you discover you have developed high blood pressure, you should stop taking hormonal contraceptives and seek out other birth control methods. Once off the pill or the patch, your blood pressure should return to normal within 3 to 6 months.

Keep in mind that although you can take hormonal methods of birth control if you have high blood pressure that is being regulated with medications, you will need to have your blood pressure closely monitored by your doctor. Nonetheless, it is strongly advised that anyone who had, has, or is at a greater risk of developing high blood pressure, use other birth control methods.

The following are safe methods of birth control that doesn't put a woman at high blood pressure risk:

 Barrier birth control methods - condoms, diaphragm, sponge, cervical cap. Each of these methods is disposed of after sexual intercourse.
 Birth control injection - DepoProvera is a shot containing synthetic progestin (different from the pill and patch) administered via a needle every three months. DepoProvera a long-term method of birth control.
 Birth control implant - Norplant is a progestin capsule that is inserted into the upper arm and lasts for 5 years. An IUD (intrauterine device) is a T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus (and can last a year or 10 years depending on the type) and is very effective at preventing pregnancy. The IUD is recommended for those women who are in a long-term monogamous relationship.

Keep in mind that even though the above do not directly impact high blood pressure, the shots and implants do have side effects, and none of the above contraception (including the pill and patch), except for the condom, prevent the transmission of STD's (sexually transmitted diseases). Therefore, make sure you discuss your contraceptive options with your health care provider if birth control high blood pressure is a risk factor for you.

Contraception - Do You Have Birth Control High Blood Pressure Concerns?

Different Methods Of Birth Control

2011-09-19T05:13:00.001-07:00

Different Methods Of Birth Control

Did you know that Asians are more less conscious about birth control methods? In China alone, 3 new babies are born each minute and the case is similar to south east Asian region. Birth control is very important in the family and to the country's economic growth. Most governments are striving to implement a better birth control policies for their citizens, to ensure the future of the whole country. For you, what can you contribute on family planning?

Contraception is a term used worldwide to prevent pregnancy, similar definition for birth control. There are various types of contraception, some of which are designed for women and other for men. Some types are for permanent control and others are mostly reversible.

There are six major birth control methods. These are:

1. Sterilization (surgery)
2. Withdrawal
3. Natural family planning and
4. Abstinence
5. Barrier methods (devices)
6. Hormonal methods

Let me discuss each types for you to determine which type is the best for you and your partner. It is also important that most of these birth control methods will help you to prevent pregnancy but these are not designed to prevent sexually transmitted diseases.

Sterilization
Sterilization for male is called vasectomy. It involves surgery to close the tubes that carries the sperm preventing any entry to the vagina. In female, sterilization procedure is called tubal ligation. It is a surgical procedure which is designed to close the fallopian tubes which carries the eggs from the ovaries to the uterus, does preventing pregnancy.

Withdrawal
Withdrawal birth control is the most used method worldwide after condom. This involves the removal of the erect penis from the vagina before ejaculation occurs. This will prevent any unwanted pregnancy but this method also has 43% chance of failure.

Natural Family Planning
Fertility awareness is the other term for Natural Family Planning birth control method. NFP does not involves any medication or devices to prevent pregnancies. It mainly uses the natural functions of the body such as the menstrual cycle to calculate ovulation and body temperature. To successfully apply this method, NFP prohibits any sexual activities in a specific period of time.

Abstinence
Abstinence is simply defined as refusal or refraining from any sexual activities. This method is 100% guaranteed effective in both preventing pregnancy and the transmission of different sexual diseases.

Barrier Methods
Barrier types of birth controls involves devices to prevent the sperm from entering the woman's uterus. Below are its types.

1. Male Condom. A condom is a latex rubber that is used to rolled over a penis before any sexual intercourse. This device will contain the sperm from entering the female's uterus. Failure rate is 16%.
2. Female Condom. Female condom is a 7 inch long pouch of polyurethane with two rings and is place into the vagina before sexual intercourse. It totally covers the matrix, vaginal canal and the area around the vagina.
3. Spermicides. These devices are designed to kill the sperm and usually in the form of foam, jelly and foaming tablets and vaginal suppositories.
4. Diaphragm. This device is a soft rubber dome which is stretched over a flexible ring. The dome contains a spermicidal cream or jelly which are inserted inside the vagina 's cervix for a specific time before sexual intercourse.
5. Cervical Cap. This device is a small cup of later rubber or plastic which is also filled with spermicidal cream or jelly. This plastic rubber is then inserted inside the vagina's cervix.
6. Contraceptive Sponge. It is a soft saucer-shaped device.

Hormonal Methods

Hormonal birth control methods involves medication drugs such as pills, patch, shot, ring or implants. It prevents the woman's ovaries from releasing an egg in its monthly cycle. This process will thicken the cervical mucus making it difficult for the sperm to reach and penetrate the egg. This method does not give any protection against any transmission of sexually transmitted diseases.

Types of Hormonal methods:

- Pills
- Depo-Provera
- Vaginal Ring
- Lunelle
- Intra-Uterine Device
- Birth Control Patch

There you go. These methods are proven effective in preventing unwanted pregnancies but definitely not 100% accurate. It also does not prevent sexual diseases from invading your body. It is advisable that you consult your doctor on which type of birth control methods is the best for you and your partner.

Contraception - Different Methods Of Birth Control

Diaphragm Birth Control - One Of Your Best Contraception Choices

2011-09-18T04:35:00.001-07:00

Diaphragm Birth Control - One Of Your Best Contraception Choices

What is the Diaphragm?

The diaphragm is a rubber cup, like a dish, that is filled with a spermicide gel or cream and inserted into the vagina. This cup has a flexible rim that fits within the vagina and covers the cervix. The diaphragm and the spermicide prevent sperms to enter the uterus.

There are different sizes of diaphragms, so you have to ask your doctor to recommend you the appropriate size for your cervix.

How to use the Diaphragm for birth control?

You can put the diaphragm up to six hours before sex. Before insert it into the vagina you have to fill the diaphragm about two-thirds full of spermicide, and smear a bit around the rim of the diaphragm.

You can insert easily the diaphragm in different positions: while you are lying down, squatting or standing with one leg up on a chair.

With one hand fold the diaphragm in half with the dome pointing down. With the other hand separate the lips of the vagina. Put the diaphragm into your vagina and push it as far as it will go. Use one finger to push the front rim of the diaphragm up behind your pubic bone.

You may have to practice how to insert it twice or three times before feeling comfortable.

After having sex, leave the diaphragm for about 6 hours and then take it out. If you have sex again before 6 hours, put more spermicide into your vagina, but do not pull out the diaphragm. Do not leave the diaphragm more than 24 hours; it can cause some infection or irritation.

After taking the diaphragm out, wash it with mild soap and store it in its container. The diaphragm can last even until two years. You have to check regularly with your doctor in order to make sure the diaphragm still makes a perfect fit into your vagina.

How effective is the Diaphragm for birth control?

The diaphragm is 91 % effective if it is inserted correctly. Otherwise there could be 20% chances of getting pregnant.

What are the benefits of using the Diaphragm for birth control?

The diaphragm has almost no health risks. The diaphragm is one of the best types of birth control and it is as effective as the contraception pill. There is no interruption during sex because it can be inserted up to 6 hours before intercourse.

What are the disadvantages of using the Diaphragm for birth control?

Some women may have mild allergic reactions to rubber and spermicide. Some women do not feel comfortable to insert objects into their vagina.

Contraception - Diaphragm Birth Control - One Of Your Best Contraception Choices

Are Birth Control Pills Safe?

2011-09-17T00:55:00.001-07:00

Are Birth Control Pills Safe?

After their introduction in the 1960s, it was noticed that women on OCPs were developing blood clots in their legs and having heart attacks and strokes at higher rates. Newer generations of OCPs came with reduced doses of hormones, which lessened the risks.

So at this point in OCP history, how safe and effective are these pills? For non-smoking women age 15-30, there is no increase in death rate for a comparable form of contraception, the IUD. Because of the health risks of pregnancy, the death rate amongst women from age 15-34 who are on the pill is actually lower than for women who do not use any form of birth control.

OCPs can be unsafe in older women smokers. They should not be used in women with a history of blood clots, untreated high blood pressure, breast or uterine cancer, migraine headaches with focal neurological symptoms, known pregnancy, liver or cardiac disease. The same side effects women experienced with early pills are still a problem for some women taking modern versions: headaches, nausea, bloating, breast tenderness, and weight gain. Your OCP should have low estradiol (less than 50 µg) to decrease the risk of blood clotting.

For young, non-smoking women without hypertension or diabetes the health benefits balance the health risks of OCPs. For these women there is no increased risk of heart attack or stroke. There is a 28% increased risk of blood clot in the leg, but since this is rare the risk than any one particular woman will get one from an OCP is still very rare. For smokers there is an increased risk with OCPs that gets worse with age. For instance, the risk of death is 1 in 200,000 per year in non-smoking women under the age of 35. However risk increases with age and smoking to 1 in 700 per year for smokers over age 35.

The risk of cervical cancer doubles after 10 years of oral contraceptive therapy in women with a history of human papilloma virus infection (HPV). It is not clear if the risk is from the OCP or the increased risk of being infected with HPV for women on OCPs who may not use barrier protection. However since the risk of getting cervical cancer is .008% in any given year a doubling of risk means increasing your risk by another .008% per year. OCPs increase the risk of liver cancer. Liver cancer, however, is rare. OCPs increase the risk of breast cancer by 10-20%.

In women of childbearing age breast cancer is rare, and any increased risk and goes away after OCPs are stopped. In addition the types of breast cancers that develop in women on OCPs are more easily treatable; therefore the overall risk from breast cancer is not increased. OCPs reduce the risks of ovarian and uterine (endometrial) cancers. OCPs reduce the risk of anemia, through reduction of iron loss in menses, pelvic inflammatory disease, and osteoporosis (since estrogen promotes the laying down of calcium in the bones).

Women who take the pill have identical fertility rates after going off the pill compared to women who never took the pill. OCPs are safe for teenage girls to use, with the exception of Depo-Provera.

Use an OCP with low doses of estradiol (

Contraception - Are Birth Control Pills Safe?

Under Age Sex

2011-09-16T00:54:00.001-07:00

Under Age Sex

Under age sex is becoming a great problem now days. Many teenagers try to have sex, because they want to spice up their relationship. Perhaps, they are wrong. Sex isn't just an activity. It brings lots of responsibilities upon the boy and girl as well. The question is what is the right age for sex? What will be your answer? A person might say that it should be 18 or 20.

It is true that young people should have sex, because it really gives pleasure, feeling of intimacy, love, care, affection and trust, which is really needed to spice up the relationship with your boyfriend/girlfriend. In the USA, a girl loses her virginity at the age of 12-16 and similar figures were collected for boys as well. Now, you can see, this is really abysmal state. Sex rather matures the relationship. Any boy or girl, who goes for it, should have proper knowledge.

Here are some important questions, one should really know, especially young boys and girls, who are really willing to have intercourse or curious for it. If you young people can answer these questions, you are probably ready for sex.

• Will sex hurt you? Will your body be able to handle such activity? If it is harmful for your body, what harms can it be? Do you know how to handle it, if something goes wrong?

• Do you know about STD's? Do you know about contraception? Do you know about protected sex? How can you have protected sex? Do you know how to handle and cure the STDs and their inhabitation as well?

If you have these all answers, you are qualified for sex to spice up relationship.

Contraception - Under Age Sex

Rocking Sex, Emergency Contraception and More

2011-09-14T23:32:00.001-07:00

Rocking Sex, Emergency Contraception and More

Men wish sex is like the movies and women keep waiting for the best to happen. If you want to have rocking sex each night and pleasure your partner like never before, you should complete reading this article. If you are happy with vanilla sex every night, you can quit reading right now.

It takes effort and interest to maintain a good sex life. It is not as easy as it seems. And considering that our lifestyles are more hectic and fast than ever before, your sex life needs more attention. When you are tired from a day's work, you have little time and almost no energy left to motivate yourself for great sex. After all, sex needs to start with good foreplay and end with a shattering orgasm.

Women are wired differently and their sex drive works differently too. They take longer to get sexually stimulated and need something new. This might apply to men as well in some cases. So, it is better to add some more spice to your sex life than to keep things uninteresting and boring.

Here are some tips for better sex, which are enough to heat things up for a while.

Blindfold her

You should understand that sexual pleasure has many dimensions. When one of the senses is hampered, the other senses become more powerful. For example, a deaf person has more awareness related to touch, vibrations, sight and smell. Similarly, blindfolding your partner will help you increase her sensory awareness. The fact that she does not know what next will happen, will add to her sexual stimulation and arouse her more. Also, ensure that you do not overstimulate her or else some parts of her body might go numb. Women can try the same trick with men.

Massage

A good massage, especially before sex, will change your whole experience and help you have more pleasurable feelings. Touching her body in more ways than one will help both of your discover new boundaries of intimacy. Give her a deeply relaxing massage and ask her to give you one. Our bodies are sensual and when you make your touches highly sexual and erotic, it can take sex to a new level. A massage before sex will unlock her body and help her achieve stronger orgasms and a woman who is sexually satisfied will do anything to make her partner happy. The aim here is to keep her senses alert but her body relaxed.

Increase your sensitivity

Using a condom might hamper your sensitivity. You can stop using condoms if you trust your partner. Again, do not use condoms, only if you are having sex with your partner as the risk of sexually transmitted diseases increases with multiple partners. If you are afraid of making her pregnant, you can ask her to take the pill. Morning after pills, which are used by women, can be taken up to 120 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse to stop them from getting pregnant. ellaOne is an effective emergency contraceptive pill that has a success rate of 98%.

Contraception - Rocking Sex, Emergency Contraception and More

When to Avoid Certain Types of Contraception

2011-09-13T22:00:00.001-07:00

When to Avoid Certain Types of Contraception

Contraception has come a long ways in the last 50 years, sparking the sexual revolution of the 1960's and giving women and couples a great variety of options for planning and timing their reproduction. Still there are some types of contraception that are best avoided for people with certain types of medical conditions and specific needs.

One key consideration is whether you want temporary or permanent. One of the most common mistakes that I see is men who choose to have a vasectomy and then have a change of mind or change of circumstances and decide they later want to father a child. Vasectomy reversal is always expensive and frequently ineffective, so men and women should be certain of their desire for permanent contraception before choosing tubal ligation or vasectomy.

For temporary contraception there are specific reasons to avoid various types of birth control, and here are a few of the more important ones:

Breast Cancer: women with breast cancer need to avoid all types of hormonal contraception. Diabetes of over 20 years duration or with major complications: these patients should generally not take combined estrogen-progestin contraceptives (combination OCPs). Migraine headache with aura: avoid combination OCPs to avoid risk of vascular accidents. Migraine without aura in women over age 35: should avoid initiation of combination OCPs. Smoking >3/4 pack/day and age > 35: puts at risk of stroke and DVT with combination OCPs. BP > 160/100: stay away from combination pills Stroke history: strong reason not to use combination pills Hepatocellular adenoma or carcinoma: avoid combination OCPs Major surgery that requires prolonged bed rest or immobilization: avoid combination OCPs to reduce risk of blood clots in the legs. Prior DVT: avoid combination pills Significant distortion of the uterine cavity from congenital abnormality or fibroids: avoid IUD Significant pelvic infections: No new IUD placement, some require IUD removal.

A more comprehensive review is available in American Family Physician.

Contraception - When to Avoid Certain Types of Contraception

Thin Condoms Give a More Natural Feeling

2011-09-12T21:59:00.001-07:00

Thin Condoms Give a More Natural Feeling

Many men and women do feel uncomfortable using condoms during sexual intercourse. This is true particularly when using the thick condoms which sometimes force people to shy away from using the rubber at all resulting in a higher risk of pregnancy and transmission of infectious diseases. But this should not be a major problem now as thin condoms are already available in the market.

Thin condoms are much preferred as they give a more natural feeling to the users and even to women. And since these thin condoms provide a more natural sensation, there's increased stimulation during intercourse.

Many companies have responded to people's need for a thinner condom to enable them to enjoy their sexual relationship. They have taken steps to reduce the thickness of condoms to further encourage sexually active adults to use them for their protection.

While thinner condoms are a more attractive option to the thicker ones, some people may doubt its effectiveness. But before you doubt its capability, it's important to understand that condoms pass through several stages of testing before they go out in the market. They are required to meet national, regional and international standards for burst pressure and tensile strength to ensure that they're leak-free.

The single wall thickness is normally used to determine a condom's thinness. This is done through a weight measurement. The burst pressure test, on the other hand, involves a condom being inflated at a fixed rate of airflow while its pressure and volume of air are monitored. This testing covers a number of condoms from every batch. The thinner the condom, the lower is the pressure required to inflate and eventually burst it.

The material is also of utmost importance in making thin condoms. This is particularly a major concern during the modulus testing. Modulus refers to the measure of stiffness such that a material with lower modulus means it is more elastic. During testing, as the modulus of the condom material is increased, so is its burst pressure.

Most condoms are made from natural rubber latex (NRL). However, with thin condoms, this natural rubber latex is typically combined with polyurethane latex (PUL). With this blend, it is possible to make thin condoms that are less stiff and meet international standards. Studies have found that thin condoms made from this blend have a higher burst pressure compared to the pure natural rubber latex condoms.

With all these factors considered, thin is definitely in when it comes to condoms. It's safe, more natural and lets you enjoy great pleasure during sexual intercourse.

Contraception - Thin Condoms Give a More Natural Feeling

Oral Contraceptive Pill, a Breakthrough in Hormonal Contraception

2011-09-11T21:58:00.001-07:00

Oral Contraceptive Pill, a Breakthrough in Hormonal Contraception

You should never leave birth control to chance and among the many contraceptive ways that are available on the market, oral contraception is the most reliable and convenient way to prevent pregnancy. It is reliable because a majority of oral contraceptives have a very high success rate in preventing unwanted pregnancy. Cilest birth control pills have a success rate of 98% when taken as prescribed. It means that this pill can prevent 98 out of 100 expected pregnancies. The recent boom in online healthcare system has ensured that you can buy Cilest online at a click of the mouse! Let's learn more about Cilest pills.

Cilest in a nutshell

A Cilest contraceptive pill contains synthetic versions of two major female sex hormones, oestrogen and progesterone. A single pill contains 35mcg of ethinylestradiol (oestrogen derivative) and 250mcg of norgestimate (progesterone derivative). The combined formulation of Cilest means that women who are less tolerant to progesterone can be benefited because of its oestrogen content. Many women tend to develop menstrual problems after they take progesterone-only contraceptive pills. Cilest can be a good choice to get relief from painful or irregular periods. Besides, this method of hormonal contraception is also believed to be helpful in curing acne marks.

Starting with Cilest

It is strongly advisable that you start with Cilest pills as and when recommended by your doctor. If you are using this pill for the first time, take it on the day you have menstrual bleeding and continue with it until the pack is finished. Each Cilest contraceptive pill is marked with the name of the days and if your bleeding starts on Friday, take the pill which is marked 'Fri'.

7-day Placebo

Unlike contraception, regular contraception requires placebo doses just to help the body get attuned with hormonal changes. In case of ethinylestradiol-norgestimate contraceptive pills, the duration of the placebo doses is 7 days during which you do not have to take any pill. You are likely to have your period during this pill-free week and once you have your period, start with the next pack right on the day you experience bleeding for the next menstrual cycle.

In case you forget to take a pill

Forgotten contraception is very common and you should not panic in case you miss a dose. There are only a couple of things to consider when you forget to take Cilest contraceptive pill: how late you are and the number of pills left in your pack. There is nothing to worry about if you remember the missed dose within 12 hours. You can take the next dose on time and continue with the normal dosing schedule prescribed by your doctor. But when you are left with 7 or more pills and you have crossed the 12-hour mark from your last forgotten dose, you need to take the next dose immediately and you will also have to take additional precautions throughout the next week to prevent pregnancy. Ask your partner to use a condom each time you have sex in the next 7 days.

Cilest pills - A contraceptive breakthrough

Cilest is arguably the most innovative birth control formulation in keeping up with all the latest reliability and safety metrics laid down by a majority of the healthcare regulatory authorities in the United Kingdom and the United States. These birth control pills do not just have an envious rate of success in preventing pregnancy, but can also help you get rid of excess body hair and cysts in the ovaries. Also, Cilest is a better choice than other contraceptive pills for women with endometriosis.

Contraception - Oral Contraceptive Pill, a Breakthrough in Hormonal Contraception

Trojan Condoms Getting More Innovative

2011-09-10T21:57:00.001-07:00

Trojan Condoms Getting More Innovative

Gone are the days when people just have to content themselves with one type of latex rubber condoms. Thanks to a huge part to the ever advancing technology that people now enjoy a wide range of condoms they can use for a more pleasurable sexual experience while at the same time protecting themselves against sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancies.

Various companies manufacture quality condoms and one of them is the Church & Dwight Company, makers of the popular Trojan brand. Backed by 90 years of experience, Trojan condoms such as the Ultra Ribbed, ENZ, Magnum XL and Warm Sensations account for a big share or more than 70 percent of condom sales in the entire United States of America. This huge market share is primarily attributed to the brand's longevity having been introduced in the market way back in 1920.

The Trojan brand carries different types of condoms including the Magnum and Ultra Thin. The Magnum type is similar to Trojan's basic condom called ENZ which has a reservoir tip and water-based lubricant. The only difference is the size because Magnum is larger. While the regular condom measures 7 ¼ inches long and 1 3/8 inches wide, Magnum is 8 inches in length and 1 ½ inches in width.

These large Magnum condoms are especially meant for the gifted males. In fact, there is a much larger version known as Magnum XL that is 30 percent bigger than the regular condom. It is considered the widest condom available in the market today edging out its closest competitor, the Durex XXL.

Meanwhile, people who desire a more natural skin feeling have reasons to be happy as Trojan has made available its ultra thin condom. The Trojan Ultra Thin is the thinnest latex condom designed to give users and their partner maximum sensation during sexual intercourse. With this very thin condom, users are guaranteed to feel very comfortable as if they're using second skin.

Despite its thinness, though, this type of condom is strong and reliable just like the regular Trojan condom. It is made from premium quality latex material with a special reservoir end and smooth silicone-based lubricant for added comfort and sensitivity. All Trojan condoms are made in the U.S. and are triple tested to ensure their high quality. They are available in packs of 12 and 36 with or without spermicide.

The Trojan brand has come a long way indeed. The company behind this popular condom brand has revolutionized the condom from being just a protection against infectious diseases and pregnancy to being a tool aimed at enhancing sexual intercourse. As a part of the Church & Dwight conglomerate, Trojan condoms are really fortunate that they remain to be very competitive in the market until today amidst the presence of various brands. And let's not forget the brains behind the Trojan condoms, Merle Leland Youngs, a Presbyterian from New York, who in the early days of this brand took pains in introducing and promoting the use of condoms among adults in the U.S. as an effective way to avert the spread of diseases.

Contraception - Trojan Condoms Getting More Innovative

Different Side Effects of Using Birth Control Pills and Devices

2011-09-09T21:43:00.001-07:00

Different Side Effects of Using Birth Control Pills and Devices

There are a lot of us who are not ready to have kids but still have sex. This is where birth control pills and devices comes in. there are a lot of individuals who wants to engage in free sex but do not want the responsibilities that might come up after unsafe sex.

Birth control methods, pills, and devices are made readily available for most individuals who are wise enough to use them. It is quite simple if you do want to get pregnant then just do not have sex. I know it is quite different in the actual situation. It is not easy to show our partner how much we desire them if we do not show it through sex.

Another way is by using condom. This birth prevention method is quite popular. We all know that this is usually used by men but actually there are now condoms that are made specifically for women. This can be worn during the intercourse and removed right after. The good thong about using condom is that it does not have any side effects. The only problem is that some men dislike the idea of using one because some thinks that it lessens the sensation.

There are also spermicides available in the market. It is usually used with a diaphragm or a vaginal ring. These spermicides come in different forms like gels, creams, tablets, and suppositories. The only problem if misused the possibility of infections.

The contraceptive pills have numerous side effects like nausea, migraines, mood changes, spotting, nausea, and possible weight gain. There are also possibilities of having cancer, high blood pressure, blood clots, and cardiovascular problems. Nowadays there are newer pills that will have lesser effects. This can also lead to women having lesser periods that can occur only up to four times every year.

There is also a contraceptive patch for women. A single patch can last for up to seven days and one has to replace once every week. This can either be placed on your abdomen, arms, buttocks, or anywhere you like. A woman should wear this for three consecutive weeks and on the fourth week a patch is not required. Then the cycle will repeat on the following month. This also has side effect like that of a pill. Vomiting, headaches menstrual cramps, and so on can be felt. Aside from patches there are also injectables that are available.

It is much better to know what the possible side effects of a birth control method you will want to use. This will help you consider a few things before starting on it. One has to weigh the pros and cons of using birth prevention methods and having a baby. Just be ready for any consequences

Contraception - Different Side Effects of Using Birth Control Pills and Devices

Durex Play Promises More Sensation

2011-09-08T20:14:00.001-07:00

Durex Play Promises More Sensation

Adults in a relationship often desire to experience pleasure with their partners and Durex has been very responsive to this need for many years now. Being one of the world's leading condom brand, Durex makes sure to come up with more innovative products not only to heighten the pleasure of adult consumers but to protect them as well from sexually transmitted diseases and unexpected pregnancies.

Some one billion Durex condoms are manufactured around the world each year. Durex was founded in 1915 in London and is part of the SSL International Company.

Durex condoms are already available in different sizes, textures and flavors. In terms of material, there are now the latex and non-latex for sensitive people. The non-latex condoms are made from a material known as polyurethane that won't cause allergy but is still soft to the touch to allow for greater sensitivity.

Of late, the manufacturer of Durex came up with a new innovation beyond the usual condoms. This time, it focused on another aspect of achieving pleasure for adult users which is through vibrations. Called Play, the new line of Durex products aims to encourage adult consumers to do a little experimentation with the way they seek pleasure from each other. It comes in four major types - the Vibrations, Ultra, Touch and Pure Fantasy.

The Vibrations features a ring that vibrates for 20 minutes. It comes with a tiny switch that can be turned on and off without much fuss. This is ideal for first time users.

The Ultra provides longer vibrations of up to 40 minutes. Users need not worry about noise as this product does not create a sound when in use. Also, it is waterproof and can be used with the condom on or even without the rubber. It is best used with a lubricant to experience a high level of pleasure.

The Play Touch is worn on the finger. This enables both men and women to provide their partners with stimulating touches to arouse their sexual desires. No sound is emitted when in use. The product is also not affected when it gets wet and it can even be used again as long as you see the need for it.

The Pure Fantasy product is a vibrator that can be used in different speed levels. It's considered to be a personal massager with no noise vibrations that can easily be adjusted according to the mood you want. Also available is the Durex Play line is 2 in 1 gel. This gel can serve as a lubricant as well when necessary and can be used all over the body. It can be used by people with sensitive skin because of the presence of aloe vera which is a proven skin moisturizer.

Other Play products adult consumers will enjoy are the Feel (water-based lubricant), Massage Melts (frozen gel), Heat, Mousse, Tingle, O, Sensations, Pina Colada, Aloe Vera and Very Cherry. All these are meant to heighten sexual pleasure but also ensure that the skin is protected and nourished. With every use, partners are assured of fun and excitement they may not have experienced before.

Contraception - Durex Play Promises More Sensation

Birth Control - Avoiding Unwelcome Surprises After Pregnancy

2011-09-07T20:13:00.001-07:00

Birth Control - Avoiding Unwelcome Surprises After Pregnancy

Birth control or contraception is a method of protection against unplanned pregnancy. It helps a couple decide whether or not to have a baby.

A woman can have sex after pregnancy albeit some initial mild discomfort for the first two weeks. However, she stands a high chance of becoming pregnant as her menstrual cycle (that had stopped during her pregnancy period) is likely to resume. Since a new baby demands a lot from the family - especially the mother, becoming pregnant again immediately is not something most parents would welcome. Birth control after pregnancy is a safe and stress-free way of avoiding the anxiety of becoming pregnant again.

Just as there are ways for a woman to look good again after pregnancy, there are ways by which she can protect herself against pregnancy as well. In addition, it is important to note that only a few birth control methods protect an individual against sexually transmitted diseases (STD) or HIV/AIDS.

For any birth control method to be effective, it is important for a couple to understand the way it has to be used and the various do's and don'ts associated with it. Talking to a qualified professional definitely helps and you get to clear your apprehensions before you chose any specific birth control method.

Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM)

LAM is a natural method of birth control during breastfeeding that relies on the postnatal infertility of the woman. Lactation suppresses ovulation hormones. However this is possible only up to the first six months provided the baby is exclusively and frequently breast-fed throughout the day. LAM is no longer effective once menses resume.

Fertility Awareness Method

Also known as natural family planning, this involves studying a woman's menstrual cycle after pregnancy, to arrive at safe periods for intercourse and practice abstinence during ovulation periods. As a birth control method it is the safest as it does not involve any consumption, implantation or insertion of alien or external drugs or devices. However the success rate of this method depends upon a lot of factors such as self-control and regularity of menses.

Barrier Method

Barrier methods such as condoms, sponges, diaphragms and cervical caps with spermicide, bar the sperm from entering the uterus and do not affect the breast milk.

Hormonal Method

Hormonal methods include oral contraceptives (birth control pills), skin patches, injections and vaginal rings comprising estrogen and progestin. Emergency or 'morning after' pills taken within three days of intercourse prevent pregnancy. However these are not advisable for lactating mothers as they affect the quantity and quality of milk produced. Also, hormonal methods involve other side-effects that may or may not agree with some women.

Intrauterine Device (IUD)

An IUD (also known as a loop) is a small device of plastic or metal that is inserted into the uterus by a health professional. IUD is a safe contraception that does not affect lactation. It can be removed when a woman wishes to conceive again.

Contraception - Birth Control - Avoiding Unwelcome Surprises After Pregnancy

Condom Effectiveness - Are Condoms Effective?

2011-09-06T20:12:00.001-07:00

Condom Effectiveness - Are Condoms Effective?

All methods of contraception are used to prevent pregnancy, but condoms have the added advantage of providing protection against infection and the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). How effective are condoms at doing these two things? Are they really as effective as other contraceptive methods at preventing pregnancy? And since one of the most common reasons for using a condom is to protect against infection, are they really an effective barrier against being infected by STDs? In this article we look at some of these questions.

Does using a condom prevent pregnancy?

Condoms are an extremely effective means of preventing pregnancy. Of course, no method of contraception is 100% effective because there will always be instances of incorrect or inconsistent use. This is as true of "the pill" or any other form of contraception as it is of condoms. However clinical studies have shown that high quality condoms, when used consistently and correctly, provide an excellent barrier against pregnancy. These trials have shown that correct and
consistent use of condoms can have between 95% and 98% contraceptive efficacy rate.

How often do condoms fail?

The main reason that condoms "fail" to prevent pregnancy or infection is not because the condom itself has "failed", but because of incorrect of inconsistent
use. Latex condoms can be weakened by oil-based lubricants like petroleum jelly. They can also be weakened by exposure to sunlight or by age. Sometimes they are torn by teeth or fingernails. But putting these incorrect uses aside, condoms
almost never "fail".

How often do condoms break or slip off?

In the United States, most studies of breakage caused by fault in the condom itself have shown breakage rate is less than 2 condoms out of every 100 condoms. Studies also indicate that condoms slip off the penis in about 1-5% of acts of vaginal intercourse and slip down (but not off) about 3-13% of the time. Again, these rates are influenced by the care one takes when using a condom.

Are condoms effective at preventing infection from HIV or STDs?

Studies have shown that if a latex condom is used correctly and consistently (every time you have sex), they are a highly effective barrier against infection. This has been demonstrated most clearly by studies of "discordant" couples in Europe. A "discordant" couple is one in which one partner in infected with HIV and the other one is not. In a study of 123 couples in which condoms were used consistently, none of the infected partners became infected.

Do thinner condoms give less protection against pregnancy and STDs?

Thinner condoms are equally effective as a protection against both pregnancy and infection by STDs. However they may be more easily damaged by fingernails, teeth, jewelry and other incorrect uses, so extra care should be taken when using a thinner condom.

Are all condoms thoroughly tested before being sold?

All brand name condoms are subjected to rigorous quality control tests at every stage of the manufacturing process. In the US, each condom is electronically tested for holes and defects. Samples are taken from each lot and visually examined using a water leak test. In this test the samples are filled
with 300 ml of water and suspended for 3 minutes.

Samples from each lot are also subjected to an Air Inflation Test. This involves filling the test condoms with air until they reach the bursting point. They typically will hold about 40 liters of air -- the equivalent of 9 gallons of water!

Other samples are checked for size and thickness, some are tested to destruction for physical strength, and still others are artificially aged by applying high temperatures to ensure that they will retain their quality well beyond their 5 year product life.

In all regards, condoms have been shown to be an effective way to prevent pregnancy as well as being a highly effective way of guarding oneself against HIV or STD infection.

Contraception - Condom Effectiveness - Are Condoms Effective?

Birth Control Pills And Their Side Effects

2011-09-05T20:11:00.001-07:00

Birth Control Pills And Their Side Effects

With the introduction of every new medication or drug there is a risk of certain unexpected negative reactions and side effects, same is the case with the introduction of pills for birth control. In the 1960's the birth control side effects of the pill included the instances of blurred vision, occasional nausea or weight gain but there were a few instances of blood clots and strokes that started to ring alarm bells. Birth control pills definitely were a great new innovation that helped women in preventing and controlling pregnancy but it wasn't of much use if it had side effects that were harmful to women.

Researchers and investigators scrambled to discover why there were such adverse effects and negative reactions and very soon they were successful in discovering two important reasons of such reactions. One reason was that if the levels of progesterone hormone was drastically reduced or replaced with progestin, the possibility of negative effects also dropped. Furthermore, researchers also concluded that there was a strong direct relation between the adverse effects of the pill and smoking habits of women, high blood pressure and other cardiovascular diseases. The risk and possibility of these side effects is higher for those women who smoke or have other cardiovascular diseases or have high blood pressure.

Nowadays, when you compare birth control pills, you will not only come across dissimilarity from the original one, but variations in dosage and content even between pills that are now available. There still exists the risk of heart attacks, strokes and blood clots but they are rare. This is because doctors are aware of the associated risk factors and they recommend the pills that will provide birth control, but with slight different composition of hormone. Even so, some negative reactions of the pills do remain constant even today including things like headaches, mood swings, instances of blurred vision, irregular bleeding and occasional nausea.

It is not possible to completely eliminate each and every instance of negative reactions or side effects of a medication, and similar is the case with the negative reactions of pills for birth control. In fact, there are certain adverse effects that simply result from the adjustments made by a person's body to the medication and these often disappear after the adjustments are made. However, women's health issues such as a history of blood cancer or high blood pressure still may preclude the consumption of the pill, because of the drastic side effects. Nevertheless, the use of contraceptive pills is immensely safer nowadays than it was in the earlier days.

Contraception - Birth Control Pills And Their Side Effects

Tips For Changing Birth Control

2011-09-04T20:07:00.001-07:00

Tips For Changing Birth Control

When you decide what you are using is not good enough or is not good for your body when you are on birth control, you have to stop and think about your options before you quit using what you are using to prevent a birth. Changing birth control is not always as easy as simply stopping with one thing and starting with another. Some contain hormones, and some are not as good as others. Sometimes, you want to talk to your doctor about a time frame for changing and what it may do to your cycle as a whole.

If you are on the birth control pill, and you want to change to something else that has no active hormones, like an IUD or a condom, you won't have too many problems if you stop and then start using the other method. Changing birth control from the pill to a condom means you just start using the condoms. You may want to finish out your month on the pill though, to keep your cycles from getting too messed up. Remember, using both the pill and a condom is best, but you can go from pill to condom rather easily.

If you are on the pill but what to change to something like the Depo shot, which also contains hormones, changing birth control is a bit more complicated. In this case, you want to follow the instructions that your doctor gives you. They are going to give you the shot, so they won't give it to you until it is time anyway. Finish up with the pill as they recommend, and use backup while changing birth control so you do not get pregnant. Condoms are a great backup in this case.

There are going to be many changes in your body if you are changing birth control from a hormonal type to a type like condoms or IUD. These changes may mean that you go back to a heavier period if you used the pill to have lighter periods, or to skip periods altogether. You may miss a few in the process and you may not be sure why. Even if you are using a backup, you should stay on top of where you are in your menstrual cycle. Use a pregnancy test if you feel there is any chance something may have happened. You do not want to harm a baby by starting something new if you are pregnant.

Be sure to talk to your doctor about your reasons for changing birth control. Perhaps you want to go from the pill to something without hormones because of a medical condition or risk. Perhaps you feel you are not going to be having sex very often, and you feel the pill is a waste of money at the moment. Perhaps it is cost, or perhaps you simply can not remember to take it each day, which gives a false sense of security. When your doctor understands what is going on with your life and what your worries may be, they can better suggest the birth control method that is the very best for you.

Contraception - Tips For Changing Birth Control

Religions of the World and Contraception Use

2011-09-03T19:29:00.001-07:00

Religions of the World and Contraception Use

Contraception has been around for as long as men and women have been having sexual intercourse. The condom is the one form of contraception whose use is as effective and widespread today as it was in ancient times.

A review of the major world religions' positions regarding contraception and condom use clearly shows that they all agree on two points: prohibiting abortion, and insisting that contraception should only be used within the context of marriage. Apart from the Roman Catholic Church (that only condones NFP) and Orthodox Judaism (that opposes wasting the 'male seed'), all world religions condone the use of barrier methods of contraception like condoms because they prevent the fertilization of the egg, and do not kill embryos.

Perhaps paradoxically, condoms and other contraceptive methods are openly available in most western societies where Christianity and Judaism are the dominant religions. In countries were the predominant religions condone contraception use and where governments actively promote birth control policies to limit over population problems and the spread of STDs, condoms cannot be bought in vending machines and birth control pills will not be prescribed to unmarried women. Even the advent of HIV/AIDS cannot seem to budge cultural and social attitudes against any action that could be interpreted as an encouragement of extra-marital sex or homosexuality.

The Roman Catholic Church is receiving a consistent and powerful plea from its members as well as from its own priests and nuns. They see disease spread across Africa and are now becoming pro-condom for disease prevention. There is even an online petition to the Pope.

While no changes have been made to the world's major religions yet, continued pressure in a changing society is the only solution for religions to keep up their membership and to keep their faithful safe and healthy!

Contraception - Religions of the World and Contraception Use

The Importance of Birth Control

2011-09-02T19:26:00.001-07:00

The Importance of Birth Control

In our society today, one of the most common problems especially experienced by our teens today is the premarital sex which results to unwanted pregnancies. Pregnancies that one did not want to happen but it just happened because of the aggressiveness and irresponsibility of the person. Why involve in sex if you do not want to take the responsibilities of your actions especially when the future will be put to risk?

The knowledge about birth control is very important in this situation. Some says that withdrawal is one of the best ways to prevent pregnancy. For me, as experienced by some of my friends, it just lessen the probability of getting pregnant but It does not mean that one is spared and safe from pregnancy. Even if a person tries it only for the first time, she can still get pregnant. Maybe, and surely the best way to prevent unwanted pregnancy is to be educated about birth control. Not having sex is the best way to prevent pregnancy. This is what religious people believe in. One should be or must be virgin until the day of their marriage. But in our time today, with the attitudes of our teens, sexual intercourse has been a part of their daily routines especially to those who are in an intimate relationship. Another birth control method is the use of contraceptives. Contraceptives like condoms, birth control pills, and other methods to prevent unwanted pregnancies. This is for those people that they considered sex as a need, not just a want.

I engaged in premarital sex at the age of 19. Sex is great, I admit, but thinking of the bigger responsibilities afterwards, it made me change my personal views about sex. It taught me to understand that sexual intercourse should be taken with, seriously and with proper understanding of its consequences and effects in the future. It should be well planned so that one will not be forced to do the most unrighteous thing that some unwanted pregnancy victims did, the abortion of the innocent child. Right decision should be made here so that regrets can be avoided. This is very risky for women. Physical health should be considered here because she might die of the process.

This is just some of the preventive methods of birth control. It is either one will follow them for the better of have regrets in the future. Using contraceptives is good but not having sex until one is ready is much better. Let us all be responsible.

Contraception - The Importance of Birth Control

The Catholic Church's Influence Over the HIV Plague

2011-09-01T19:16:00.001-07:00

The Catholic Church's Influence Over the HIV Plague

I have often stood alone, especially in my battle against the pseudo-science of Peter Duesberg and Thabo Mbeki and it was indeed gratifying to be invited to the recent UN Humanitarian Awards regarding my position on this issue. I have always openly said that it is morally wrong to force a HIV/AIDS infected partner to sleep with another human being in the knowledge that the sexual act will in all probability cause the death of the innocent person. In 2001, a group of Catholic Bishops from Southern Africa condemned the use of condoms to fight the HIV/AIDS pandemic in Africa. Bishop Michael Coleman stated, "their use is immoral and dangerous and the promotion of condoms is a misguided weapon in our battle against HIV/AIDS". He then continued, "condoms don't make a difference...this country is saturated with condoms yet we have the highest rates of HIV/AIDS in the world". This again, is pseudo-science masquerading itself as scientific fact. Dr. Halpenny states "apart from the fact that condoms has done nothing to halt the spread of AIDS" and unwittingly falls into this propaganda trap flouted by the Catholic Church in Africa to promote the policies of the Humanae Vitae doctrine. On this basis, I will deal with the scientific issue first.

The WHO has recently condemned the Catholic Church's views, saying: "These incorrect statements about condoms and HIV are dangerous when we are facing a global pandemic which has already killed more than 20 million people, and currently affects at least 42 million." The United Nations have also recently been profoundly disturbed by propaganda from the Catholic Church telling people in HIV/AIDS stricken countries not to use condoms because they have tiny holes in them through which HIV can pass. The Church is making these claims across four continents despite a widespread scientific consensus that condoms are impermeable to HIV. A senior Vatican spokesman, the President of the Pontifical Council for the Family, Cardinal Alfonso Lopez Trujillo, backs the claims about permeable condoms, despite assurances by the World Health Organisation that they are false. Scientific research by a group including the US National Institutes of Health and the WHO found "intact condoms... are essentially impermeable to particles the size of STD pathogens including the smallest sexually transmitted virus... condoms provide a highly effective barrier to transmission of particles of similar size to those of the smallest STD viruses".

Things get worse, in Lwak, near Lake Victoria, Gordon Wambi, the director of HIV/AIDS in the area has gone on record stating that local priests in the region are telling the populous "that condoms are laced with HIV/Aids." In Kenya (where an estimated 20% of people have HIV) the Archbishop of Nairobi, Raphael Ndingi Nzeki has gone of record stating, "the Catholic Church condemns condoms for promoting promiscuity and the rise of HIV/AIDS in that country. He also repeats the claim about permeability. So why would the ecclesiastical authorities openly tell lies against scientific fact and try to spread false propaganda to the distressed and diseased people of the plague stricken African nation.

Thankfully, the days of Galileo (who proclaimed the truth of the Copernican doctrine) where the Holy See believed itself to be the supreme authority in all matters of science are now behind us. In order to withstand the perceived wrath of the Catholic Church which states that the doctrines of Humanae Vitae "are contained in the Word of God, written or handed down, and defined with a solemn judgment as divinely revealed truths either by the Roman Pontiff when he speaks 'ex cathedra,' or by the College of Bishops gathered in council, or infallibly proposed for belief by the ordinary and universal Magisterium", I am going to use the intellectual argument of "licit dissent" to challenge the respective canons of the Codes of Canon Law. It is recognised by the Catholic Church that, as long as the disagreement against Humanae Vitae is well founded and respectfully stated, and as long as the Church's official teaching is properly con veyed alongside the theologian's expressed doubts, such theological dissent can be classified as "licit."

To be fair, neither Blessed John XXIII nor his successor Paul VI foresaw the conflagration of public dissent that occurred following the issuance of the encyclical Humanae Vitae in July of 1968. The majority of Catholic professors teaching theology in North America and many others worldwide at the time-publicly dissented from the doctrines of Humanae Vitae and this opposition has lasted up to the present day.

The problems started when Pope Paul VI attempted to clarify the Catholic Church's ancient teaching on artificial contraception following the Protestant church's reversal on the ancient prohibition of birth control during the Lambeth conference of 1930. Doctrine relating to the regulation of birth and the prohibition against artificial contraception was defined in doctrines, dating back to the Council of Nicea, (Canon 1) AD 325. The Church's teaching that the procreative element cannot be removed from the act of sex without incurring grave sin and violating the sanctity of marriage was largely influenced by theologians like St. Augustine, who we should remember prior to his conversion to Christianity, was a lustful youth who lived for years with a woman who bore him a son. This theologian was also enamoured with a dualistic philosophy called Manichaeism, which viewed matter as an evil opposed to spirit.

Unquestionably, these experiences coloured his views on marriage and sexuality and questionably still have some part to play in the deaths of HIV/AIDS patients in Africa. We should also remember that theologically the Bible has virtually nothing to say about birth control per se. The closest we get to this is the story of Onan (Gn 38: 1-11) being condemned to death for practicing coitus interruptus and this pertains more to his refusal to father children for his deceased brother (as Jewish Law required) than the practice of a form of birth control.

Eventually in 1964, Pope Paul VI created the Papal Commission on Population and Birth Control. The commission consisted of two parts, one of 64 lay persons, the other of 15 clerics, and they met from 1964 to 1966. One of the clerics was Pope John Paul II, then a Polish cardinal. Unfortunately, Pope Paul VI gave the Commission only one mission, not to review the moral doctrines relating to birth control but rather to determine how the Church could change its position on the issue without undermining papal authority. In 1966, the Commission concluded that it was not possible to make this change without undermining papal authority. They also stated that the Church should make the changes anyway because it was the right thing to do! In fact, the lay members voted 60 to 4 for change, and the clerics, 9 to 6 for change. Of more interest is the fact that the co-author of one report Karol Wojtyla (who is now Pope John Paul II) stated:

"If it should be declared that contraception is not evil in itself, then we should have to concede frankly that the Holy Spirit had been on the side of the Protestant churches in 1930. It should likewise have to be admitted that for a half century the Spirit failed to protect Pius XI, Pius XII, and a large part of the Catholic hierarchy from a very serious error".

In 1968, Pope Paul V1 issued the controversial Humanae Vitae encyclical to the protests of Catholics around the world. Following the massive public dissent registered against the encyclical, theologians loyal to the Church's magisterium, claimed that the teaching was both true and even infallible. I think I am write in stating that, Pope Paul VI himself never made this lat ter claim, indeed, his theological spokesman at the time the encyclical was issued, Fernando Lambru schini, specifically remarked that the encyclical's teach ing was not infallible. Hans Kung, the renowned Swiss Catholic theologian stated that a highly credible argument against infallibity could be made on the ba sis of the virtual unanimity with which the popes and the bishops had always maintained over the centuries that contraception was an evil. In June 1978, this argument was furthered by two moral theologians: the late Father John Ford, SJ, (an advisor of Pope Paul VI on the subject), and a layman, Professor Germain Grisez in an arti cle entitled "Contraception and the Infallibility of the Ordinary Magisterium". Hans Kung further stated that it was not possible to solve the problem "relating to contraception/condoms until we solve the problem of infallibility. We should remember that the Pope only became infallible in July 1870, the same year as the loss of the Papal States. Catholic historian Bernhard Hasler considers in his book, "How the Pope Became Infallible" that for more than a millennium, the Vatican had possessed temporal power that ensured its survival. With the loss of the Papal States, it appeared all but certain that a strong papacy would simply disappear and Pope Pius IX enacted the decree to consolidate the power of the Vatican.

Either way, millions of children go to bed each night without parents each night in Africa. If Dr. Halpenny can tell me where the evidence of "respect for human life and dignity" exists in this situation, I would certainly be glad to listen. I would also question whether in reality the proponents of this flawed theory would actually allow their HIV infected partner to have sexual intercourse with them if they that they were positive. They certainly would be showing little respect for one life ..their own!. The other theological argument relating to whether a clone could actually have a soul is not vacuous but certainly will mean that the Church will eventually have to redefine it doctrinal wording relating to the actual situation when God gives a soul to a body. However, that can wait for another day.

Contraception - The Catholic Church's Influence Over the HIV Plague

Long Term Contraception Options for Women - Plenty of Choices Today

2011-08-31T19:15:00.001-07:00

Long Term Contraception Options for Women - Plenty of Choices Today

Women today have more control over their lives because birth control has become easier today than it ever was before. There are many contraception options for women available today which makes it very easy for them to choose a method that is perfectly suited to their needs.

Women in long term relationships are looking for birth control methods that are reliable as well as fuss free. Women today have to balance responsibilities at home and at work and they do not want the added pressure of having to think about what method of birth control to choose every time they have sex. Long term contraception options for women are available to help remove the guesswork from this subject.

Most long term contraception options for women are designed to do their work on their own once they are administered to the woman. They interfere with her natural cycles so that conception is all but impossible. This permits the woman to have sex any day of the month without having a fear about getting pregnant. She does not have to keep track of the store of condoms at home or whether she has had the contraceptive pill for that day.

Most long term contraception options for women make use of hormones to do their job. There are various varieties available for a woman to choose from. They include contraceptive implants and injections in addition to intra-uterine devices and the vaginal ring. All these methods make it almost impossible for the sperm to meet the egg or even for the embryo to implant in the uterus if it does get formed.

The similarity of all these methods of contraception is that they release small quantities of hormones or other substances that prevent the reproductive system from functioning in its accustomed manner. The traditional copper intra-uterine releases tiny amounts of copper into the uterus which alter the conditions in the uterus. The other methods rely on hormones, mostly progesterone, to reduce the woman's fertility.

These methods can be chosen according to how long the woman wants protection against unwanted pregnancies. A contraceptive implant can prevent pregnancy for up to 3 years whereas the effects of a contraceptive injection last no longer than 3 months. A hormonal intra-uterine device will work for approximately 5 years whereas a copper version will last for between 5 and 10 years depending on the brand used. A vaginal ring usually needs to be replaced every 3 weeks and is therefore the least popular method amongst the ones listed above.

There is no doubt that there are many long term contraception options for women today, but it must be noted that these methods do nothing to prevent against the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. Each method has its own side effects and a woman considering getting them has to talk to a doctor first. She will only get any of these forms of birth control after the doctor has evaluated her health. However, they are very popular with women because of the convenience and security they offer.

Contraception - Long Term Contraception Options for Women - Plenty of Choices Today

Trojan Condoms - A Taste of Marketing Creativity

2011-08-30T19:13:00.001-07:00

Trojan Condoms - A Taste of Marketing Creativity

There are numerous brands of condoms manufactured and distributed across the global markets. However, only a few names dominate the markets. Condom users have set several standards in their choice of specific brands of condoms. Trojan condoms are particularly among the most well known in its league. Experts cite one distinct feature why the brand of condoms are popular, and that is: strong marketing strategies.

When it comes to condoms, Trojan is the pride of the United States. One logical reason is that the brand is locally made for the US market by a latex company called Church and Dwight Company, which is also a popular household and consumer products maker. To date, Trojan accounts for about 70.5% of the US market for condoms. The brand is sold in almost all major drugstores and retailers across the country and most of its products are still made in the USA.

Comparatively, Trojan is not as popular as its strongest rival Durex when it comes to overall global sales. But in its home market, the US, Trojan condoms are the most popular. It is estimated that in the US market, the brand is four times more popular that its closest competitor, still Durex. Thus, there is a sense in advertising slogans heralding the dominance of Trojan as the #1 condom brand across the US.

Trojan condoms made their debut in the US market is the 1920s. The original manufacturer was New York-based Young's Rubber. From the start, hype was already used in the sales of the products. In 1987, Trojan became the record holder as the first American condom brand to have a television advertisement aired. The 15-second commercial spot for the brand was seen three times within February of that year over at KRON-TV based in San Francisco.

Trojan was meticulously branded. The company made sure the logo and packaging design would create an impact. The helmet symbol in the boxes were very much effective in symbolizing virility and protection. The company logo was also very carefully designed and eliminated before finally being put to use.

The most aggressive marketing campaign for Trojan condoms was the online games called Trojan Games launched in 2003. The Website was created to convince United Kingdom users to shift to Trojan. In the campaign, online readers were comedically led to believe that there actually was a special Olympics to be held in Bucharest for sexual performance. In 2006, the videos and materials used in the Website was among the most frequently searched for and watched over at Google videos and YouTube.

Other than that, the American pop culture helped Trojan inch up popularity. For instance, the word Trojan referring to this brand of condoms was mentioned in songs released by popular music recording stars like Prince, Billy Joel, Black Eyed Peas and rapper Fabulous. There are also some Hollywood movies that have been noted to refer to Trojan as condoms. Among them are History of the World, Trojan War and the 40-Year Old Virgin. As such Trojan has been very much ingrained into the American subconscious as the premier condom product.

Trojan has been known to release the most talked about ads. People, especially Americans, equate the brand to overall protection from sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancies.

Contraception - Trojan Condoms - A Taste of Marketing Creativity

Condoms - A Mans Ally in Unwanted Pregnancies and STDS

2011-08-29T19:12:00.001-07:00

Condoms - A Mans Ally in Unwanted Pregnancies and STDS

Men condoms are most likely the most trouble-free and a most affordable form of contraceptive known to people. It is a contraceptive gadget made out of latex; also of lambskin and polyurethane. They are singly packaged and wrapped in foil. They also come in a wide rage of colors, sizes, shapes and flavors.

The most commonly availed condoms come with a reservoir tip, where there is a tiny space located at the tip to reduce the chances of them being broken. However, there are also the non reservoir tip condoms which are totally cylindrical in shape; have the right form and take on the contours of the penis down from the base while being a little enlarged at the front. Condoms also come with accessories to augment the sensation of your partner while having sexual intercourse. These condoms come in various styles. There is the studded style wherein condoms are studded; the ribbed, which have raised or lifted lines next to the shafts; and the specially shaped contraceptive devices which have pouch-like enlargements right close to the tip.

Allergies To Certain Materials

While for those having allergies to rubber latex, the lambskin as well as the polyurethane condoms are suggested. The lambskin condoms appear much thinner and have a longer shelf life as when compared to latex; while polyurethane condoms are inclined to break and be more costly. So, it would be better if you and your partner will make use of the latex condoms for your sexual pleasures. And while most of the condoms come with lubricants which can be by water or oil; they can all assure you that there shall be less friction and breakage. So, if you are inclined to be active in very dynamic sexual activities, the lubricants which are water-based are the ones you should use. This is because oil lubricants might just lessen the elasticity of your latex condoms if used. And what happens is there might be a slip-off.

Non-Lubricated Condoms

For those who have sensitivity to lubricants, there are the non-lubricated condoms. They have very little amounts of nonoxynol-9, a spermicidal compound known to be effective in the prevention of unwanted pregnancy although there are recent studies which show that it may not actually be very effective as the other compounds in the prevention of AIDS or the HIV infection.

Benzocaine, on the other hand, numbs the penis and allows for a more prolonged erection, extending and putting the sexual activity to hype and therefore prolonging the sexual satisfaction and pleasures of your partner. While there are several reports of being favorable when used; there are also some who do not agree with the claimed features of these condoms.

How To Use

First and foremost, the best way to avoid the condom from sticking when you roll it is by using and dusting some cornstarch on it. They are then slipped into the men erect private organ. Remember though that the condoms must be taken off right away so as to prevent leakage or slip-off that might possibly cause a pregnancy or transmission of unwanted sexual diseases. Although there are some people who disagree in using condoms and prefer to do things naturally.

Contraception - Condoms - A Mans Ally in Unwanted Pregnancies and STDS

IUDs - Preventing Nasty Surprises

2011-08-28T19:11:00.001-07:00

IUDs - Preventing Nasty Surprises

Intrauterine Devices, or IUDs, are one of the many methods of preventing pregnancy. They have been proved extremely effective and still used by a large percentage of women. IUDs help to keep the risk of unwanted pregnancies very low.

IUDs are of two basic forms - Inert or Copper based IUD and Hormonal IUD. The Copper IUD is basically a plastic T- shaped frame wound around a copper wire. In some IUDs the copper wire has a silver core that prevents the wire from breaking. The arms of the IUD hold it in place at the top of the uterus. The Hormonal IUD is the same shape as the Copper IUD. It contains a cylindrical cylinder that releases a low dose of progestin which helps in the prevention of pregnancy.

There are, of course, other methods of birth control. The barrier method is one of them. This method consists of the use of condoms or diaphragms. This form of birth control prevents the semen to enter the woman's body. It is an easy form of contraception as it is easily available and has barely any side effects. But in this form of contraception one has to be very careful to use it before even foreplay. Skip that and one could be in for a nasty surprise.

Another form is the hormonal method. In this method a pill, which is a combination of synthetic oestrogen and progestin, is either ingested or the said hormonal mixture is injected. The pill needs to be taken everyday and missing even one day could be risky. The injected form needs to be repeated every three months. This form of birth control has proved to have side effects like an increased risk of cervical and breast cancer as well as strokes and heart attacks among others.

As compared to the above mentioned birth control methods the use of an Intrauterine Device is preferred. It has a fail rate of only two percent. There is no need to remember or make sure that the condom is in place or that the pill has been taken that day. It does not alter the levels of hormones in the body. It lasts as long as five years, keeping the woman practically tension-free for that duration. One of its greatest advantages is that it is a reversible form birth control. When the woman decides to have a baby she can simply remove the IUD and try to get pregnant.

IUDs have their fair share of disadvantages too. Unlike the barrier form of birth control, IUDs cannot safeguard against sexually transmitted diseases. Also, an IUD has to be placed properly in the uterine cavity by a trained professional. The users cannot do it by themselves. The IUD also may be the cause of an infection or pelvic inflammation. Pelvic inflammation sometimes leads to infertility. During insertion of the IUD the uterus may also damage the uterus. Though varied, the actual risk of anything happening is very low. Thus, they still remain a very popular choice.

Contraception - IUDs - Preventing Nasty Surprises

Japanese Condoms Get Rave Reviews

2011-08-27T18:35:00.001-07:00

Japanese Condoms Get Rave Reviews

Since the first use of condoms was recorded in Japan way back in the 1600s, this industrialized Asian country has seen a positive response for this popular form of contraception. Studies have shown that among the few industrial nations with a high percentage of condom usage, Japan accounts for nearly half. To date, Japan has four companies that manufacture 95 percent of the country's condoms.

Japanese condoms are very popular worldwide owing to the fact that they're very thin yet of good quality. And since they're so thin, there's increased sensation and pleasure derived during sexual intercourse which is what most people seek. One of the major reasons why many people refuse to use the condom is they're not comfortable with the rubber but with thinner condoms, the rubber feeling is reduced and pleasure is heightened. Among the popular Japanese condoms are those made by Okamoto, Crown and Kimono.

Okamoto

Okamoto is said to be the largest manufacturer of latex condoms worldwide and is the top selling brand in Japan capturing 60 percent of the market share. Okamoto's condoms are made of sheerlon, popularly known in the country as skinless skin. This advanced material is strong and durable that it can be made into a thin condom unlike the latex rubber. A great advantage of sheerlon is its silky texture that provides a more natural feeling just like skin. Users are guaranteed not only the ultimate sexual pleasure but protection against sexually transmitted diseases as well. Each condom made by Okamoto undergoes rigid tests using precise electrostatic technology.

The Okamoto condoms are of eight styles under two brand names - Beyond Seven and Crown. Beyond Seven comes in the original lubricated form, spermicidally lubricated called the plus spermicidal, the textured condom with studs also called studded condom and the one with natural aloe lubricant.

Crown

Another brand under the Okamoto Industries that takes pride in its being super thin is the Crown skinless skin condoms. Apart from its thinness, this type of condom is wider with a more comfortable shape and added strength for the ultimate pleasure of users. In fact, this has been declared a winner among the world's top 10 condoms in several commercial websites.

A 2002 study that tested the brand's sensitivity, comfort, pleasure and protection of both partners also showed that Crown condoms are the most preferred over three other leading brands. Some of the participants in the study said Crown was incomparable and felt like there was no condom at all.

Crown condoms are available in the original lubricated form, the textured type with studs called Crown studded and the colored latex called Crown assorted colors.

Kimono

Kimono condoms come in different types. The microthin regular and the microthin with aqua lube are considered the best and thinnest condoms in the market. It's so thin that it fits well and doesn't feel like you're wearing the rubber. The Kimono sensation is also known for its thinness and reliability. With its form-fitting shape that is tighter at the neck and base, the user need not worry about the condom loosening during the sexual intercourse.

Contraception - Japanese Condoms Get Rave Reviews

Contraceptives - Tablets and Sponges

2011-08-26T18:32:00.001-07:00

Contraceptives - Tablets and Sponges

Spermicides are contraceptive tablets or suppositories that are placed in the vagina prior to intercourse. These substances are activated by vaginal secretions and kill sperm to prevent pregnancy.

Used alone, spermicides are not an effective birth control method - the reason why they are usually combined with other barrier methods of contraception such as diaphragms, condoms, cervical caps and sponges.

"There is always the danger that the tablet will not dissolve completely and that contraception protection will thus be incomplete. This method is less preferred than others where the barrier to sperm attempting to enter the cervix is more certain. Purchasers should also make sure they are buying contraceptive tablets, not feminine hygiene suppositories, which are often displayed nearby," said Dr. Raphael Jewelewicz in "The Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons Complete Home Medical Guide."

The vaginal sponge is a disposable pillow-shaped device which looks like a tampon. It is packed with spermicide and absorbs seminal fluid when inserted in the vagina.

The earliest reference to sponges as a means of birth control was made in the Ebers Papyrus in 1500 B.C. This primitive sponge was made of lint and contained acacia and honey. So popular was this contraceptive that it was used for years. Modern sponges are made of a different material but work the same way. Aside from blocking and/or absorbing semen, they also kill sperm.

"The device works continuously releasing spermicide for up to 72 hours. Additional applications of spermicides are not necessary, even for multiple acts of intercourse. There are other advantages as well: the sponge is available without a prescription; unlike a diaphragm, the sponge does not have to be fitted; and the sponge can be inserted ahead of time, which allows greater spontaneity in sex. The sponge has been found to be 85 percent effective," according to the editors of Consumer Guide's "Family Health & Medical Guide."

Since the sponge comes in a size that fits all women, there is no need for professional fitting at a physician's office. Furthermore, a study of 4,162 women published in the American Journal of Public Health said sponges (and diaphragms) appear to offer more protection against two sexually transmitted diseases - gonorrhea and trichomoniasis.

Dr. Michael Rosenberg, professor of epidemiology and obstetrics and gynecology at the University of North Carolina, said the incidence of gonorrhea and trichomoniasis was 71 percent and 74 percent lower respectively in women who used these barrier methods compared to those who didn't use a contraceptive at all.

Rosenberg believes the sponge and diaphragm may be more effective in preventing sexually transmitted diseases than condoms. What's more, one can have worry-free sex for the next 24 hours after using the sponge.

What about side effects? Like the diaphragm and spermicide, some women may experience an allergic reaction or irritation. Other complaints are difficulty in removing the sponge and a bad vaginal odor if the device is left for more than 18 hours. Most of these problems, however, are minor.

"Cases of local irritation or allergic reaction have been reported; however, these have been mild and infrequent. There is also concern that the sponge could become a breeding ground for infection, especially if used improper¬ly. You should consult your doctor about the contraceptive sponge and its proper use before trying this method of birth control," said the editors of Consumer Guide's "Family Health & Medical Guide." (Next: A close look at condoms.)

Contraception - Contraceptives - Tablets and Sponges

Common Male Forms of Birth Control

2011-08-25T17:59:00.001-07:00

Common Male Forms of Birth Control

There is only three types of birth control for men; condoms, withdrawal, and a vasectomy. Condoms is the counted to be the most normally utilised. This is because for men they are most dependable when compared to withdrawal and less alarming then a vasectomy.

But a vasectomy is not totally out of the question for many men. Some of the more older men are studying this form of birth control. They have already had a few babies and they would like to relish their time with their wife and family without anymore more. A vasectomy is a surgical procedure that slices away the vasa deferentia. Cutting this prevents the sperm from traveling to the seminal stream.

A vasectomy is an easier and less pricey method when comparing it to a hysterectomy in a woman. During the most simplest form of this operation the operating surgeon will make two small cuts at the scrotum - which will allow for them to view the vas deferens. These are clipped and covered with stitches.

The recovery time for this operation is ordinarily two to five days though health experts are trying to find new ways of reducing this time. There is a process of no scalpel vasectomy during which a hemostat is employed in place of a scalpel.

After the vasectomy has been performed the testes will be left in the scrotum where the Leydig cells will have the power to still produce testosterone and other of the required hormones that a man needs. Even So, the sperm will no longer have the power to exit the body through the penis even though the testicles will proceed to produce them. Alternatively the body will break them down and soak up them.

Many times this kind of male birth control will only cost between 0 to ,000 to complete. It can be finished within the doctor's office and normally will only take a few days to mend. The doctor will call you back for a follow up appointment when they will examine to see if the sperm is being contained correctly and all of the excess sperm has been taken away from your body.

The physician will recommend that you abstain from sexual intercourse because of the sperm that may still be left through the man's penis. Otherwise you may find that you have a baby surprise. This procedure is able to be lifted in distinct men.

Contraception - Common Male Forms of Birth Control

Top 10 Reasons to Use a Condom

2011-08-24T17:58:00.001-07:00

Top 10 Reasons to Use a Condom

There are numerous contraceptive methods that you and your partner can use -- everything from pills to injections to implants. And of course there are condoms. When used correctly they can all be very effective methods of preventing unwanted pregnancy.

But the fact is, using a condom can often be the easiest, least expensive, and least intrusive method of contraception. And using condoms can have important health benefits as well.

Here are the top 10 reasons to use condoms rather than alternative contraceptive methods:

10. Condoms are widely available in pharmacies, supermarkets, and can be ordered online from many well established websites.

9. Condoms are a necessity for busy people in modern society.

8. Condoms are easy to use. The intervention of a health care professional is not required.

7. Condoms are a highly reliable method of birth control when used properly. On average they are up to 98% effective.

6. No need to "take" a pill that impacts your entire body and alters natural processes. Condoms are only required when you are having sex.

5. Unlike the alternatives, condoms can actually enhance the sexual experience because they are available in many sizes, shapes, textures, and flavours.

4. There are no medical side effects as with virtually all other birth control methods.

3. Condoms help protect women from infections [http://sbo-linknet.com/articles-05/health/article-3.php] and the development of cancer of the cervix.

2. When used properly, condoms are the only contraceptive that helps to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV.

1. Condoms are neat and tidy and make sex less messy.

Many people who have tried the alternatives are returning to condoms. They have decided the potential side-effects of other methods are not acceptable, or they are simply unwilling to tamper with the natural cycles of their body. Just as
important, they have come to realize that only condoms can offer a significant barrier to infection and sexually transmitted diseases.

Contraception - Top 10 Reasons to Use a Condom

Birth Control For Teens

2011-08-23T17:57:00.001-07:00

Birth Control For Teens

Recent studies have revealed a disturbing trend: teenagers are having more and more sex at younger and younger ages. According to one recent study of Baltimore teens, almost 42% of urban teenagers have had sex before their 15th birthday and 26% before their 14th birthday. Whether or not these numbers are generally applicable or peculiar to the metropolitan Baltimore area is beside the point. Teenagers are having sex and need access to condoms and safe contraceptives.

Many people are of the position that teenagers shouldn't be having sex and thus don't need birth control. Giving them access to contraceptives, they say, would merely encourage them. I disagree. I believe the reality of the situation is that teenagers will have sex whether they have access to birth control or not. With that in mind, it makes sense for us to simply accept reality and do what we can to mitigate the consequences of teenage sexual behavior.

Many doctors require a note from a parent before they will prescribe birth control. Others, such as those at free clinics or county health departments, will prescribe birth control to teens of a certain age provided they can afford to pay for it. If you are or know a sexually active teen, the local county health department is your best friend. You should make an appointment with a doctor to discuss your actions discreetly and without your parents knowledge, if you so wish. At the very least, county health departments often give out free or deeply-discounted condoms to those who ask. Condoms are an especially effective form of birth control because they also help protect against the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.

Whatever your position on the topic of teenage sex, it is up to all of us to ensure they are well-educated on the nature of sex, pregnancy, and sexually transmitted diseases. Denying this from them amounts to nothing more than an assault on their rights as an individual.

Contraception - Birth Control For Teens

Nightmares of Unsafe Sex and Pregnancy

2011-08-22T17:54:00.001-07:00

Nightmares of Unsafe Sex and Pregnancy

Teenage pregnancy in Britain is amongst the highest in Europe. Young people who have unsafe sex, without using contraception are at risk of acquiring sexually transmitted diseases, such as Chlamydia; and girls are at risk of becoming pregnant.

If you are a teenager, finding out that you are pregnant can be a very stressful and daunting experience. If the pregnancy is unplanned, you may be worried about telling your parents and whether or not you want to go ahead with the pregnancy. You may also worry about the implications in terms of schooling, social life and how your body will change. Most women go through mixed emotions when they are pregnant. It is therefore important to remember that you are not alone and that you should either speak to your parents, teacher or a health professional about it.

If you think you are pregnant, don't ignore it. The first thing to do is make sure that you are definitely pregnant. You can make an appointment to see your GP or attend a family clinic. They will be able to carry out the necessary tests and provide you with advice, especially if there are difficulties around communicating with your parents. Alternatively, you can speak to a relative or teacher who may also be able to assist.

You can avoid getting pregnant by waiting to have sexual intercourse at the legal age of consent in England, Scotland and Wales, which is 16. Also by practicing safe sex such as using a condom during sexual intercourse and using contraception. If you think your are pregnant or would like to find out more about safe sex practices and the best method of contraception, speak to your parents, teacher or GP for more information and advice.

Contraception - Nightmares of Unsafe Sex and Pregnancy

Important Facts About Emergency Contraception

2011-08-21T17:43:00.001-07:00

Important Facts About Emergency Contraception

Millions of unintended pregnancies happen all over the world and emergency contraception are the most effective method to help, prevent it. Most women use various types of birth control methods that help prevent a pregnancy.

When these birth control methods fail, it is emergency contraception that has been found to be most effective. However it is important to remember that these methods will not be effective, if the women are already pregnant or if they are used 72 hours after unprotected sex.

There are two types of contraception available in case of emergencies and these include:

Emergency contraceptive pill (also known as morning after pill) Intrauterine devices

It is always important that the women who intend to use any of the methods specified above, should consult the physician before doing so. It will help them deal with any kind of side effects. These contraception methods should not be continued, if the woman is already pregnant and she was unaware about it.

These are not regular birth control methods and should be used only in case of an emergency. So how does an emergency contraception work? It is similar to the birth control pills that are prescribed by your physician as they prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg. They also help prevent the sperm to fertilize the egg.

How effective are these contraception methods? The various methods that are prescribed for this purpose can be very effective, if they are taken within the prescribed time. However women who are already pregnant or those who suffer from some ailment like cancer or blood clot should avoid using these emergency methods. Intrauterine devices should not be used if you are suffering from any sexually transmitted disease.

Most women who choose any one of these methods will experience mild side effects, which would gradually disappear after a couple of days. Side effects include uneasiness in the stomach, vomiting, nausea, headache or heavy bleeding between periods. If these side effects do not disappear after some days, you may have to consult a physician.

Emergency contraceptive pills are not abortion pills and it is important that you are aware of the difference between them. Although these methods are found to be effective in preventing a pregnancy, they would not be able to prevent any sexually transmitted disease. These should be used only in case of an emergency and it is definitely not recommended as a birth control method.

Contraception - Important Facts About Emergency Contraception

Birth Control Pills Advantages And Disadvantages

2011-08-20T17:41:00.001-07:00

Birth Control Pills Advantages And Disadvantages

Oral contraceptives consist of synthetic forms of two hormones produced naturally in the body: either progestin alone or estrogen and progestin. Estrogen and progestin regulate a woman's menstrual cycle, and the fluctuating levels of these hormones play an essential role in fertility.

Health Benefits & Advantages

Birth control pills provide certain health benefits in addition to preventing pregnancy.
Highly effective reversible contraception. Birth control pills provide highly reliable contraceptive protection, exceeding 99%. Even when imperfect use (skipping an occasional pill) is considered, the BCPs are still very effective in preventing pregnancy. Menstrual cycle regulation. Birth control pills cause menstrual cycles to occur regularly and predictably. This is especially helpful for women with periods that come too often or too infrequently. Periods also tend to be lighter and shorter. Decrease risk of iron deficiency (anemia). Birth control pills reduce the amount of blood flow during the period. Less blood loss is helpful in preventing anemia. Reduce the risk of ovarian cysts. The risk of developing ovarian cysts is greatly reduced for birth control pills users because they help prevent ovulation. An ovarian cyst is a fluid - filled growth that can develop in the ovary during ovulation. Protection against pelvic inflammatory disease. Birth control pills provide some protection against pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Pelvic inflammatory disease is a serious bacterial infection of the fallopian tubes and uterus that can result in severe pain and potentially, infertility. Can improve acne. For moderate to severe acne, which over-the-counter and prescription medications can't cure, birth control pills may be prescribed. The hormones in the birth control pill can help stop acne from forming. Reduce the risk of symptomatic endometriosis. Women who have endometriosis tend to have less pelvic pain and fewer other symptoms when they are on the Pill. Birth control pills won't cure endometriosis but it may stop the disease from progressing. Birth control pills are the first-choice treatment for controlling endometriosis growth and pain. This is because birth control hormones are the hormone therapy that is least likely to cause bad side effects. Improve fibrocystic breasts. 70 - 90% of patients see improvement in the symptoms of fibrocystic breast conditions with use of oral contraceptives. Improved excess hair (hirsutism). Women with excessive facial or body hair may notice an improvement while taking the Pill, because androgens and testosterone are suppressed by oral contraceptives. High androgen levels can cause darkening of facial and body hair, especially on the chin, chest, and abdomen. Prevent ectopic pregnancy. Because birth control pills work primarily by suppressing ovulation, they effectively prevent ectopic pregnancy as well as normal pregnancy. This makes the pills an excellent contraceptive choice for women who are at particular risk for ectopic pregnancy, a potentially life-threatening condition. Help prevent osteoporosis. Studies show that by regulating hormones, the pill can help prevent osteoporosis, a gradual weakening of the bones. Do not affect future fertility. Using pills will not affect a womanТs future fertility, although it may take two to three months longer to get pregnant than if a woman did not take pills. Safe for many women. Research for over 40 years has proven long term safety.
Risks & Disadvantages

About 40% of women who take birth-control pills will have side effects of one kind or another during the first three months of use. The vast majority of women have only minor, transient side effects Some side effects are uncommon but may be dangerous.

Heart attack. The chances of birth control pills contributing to a heart attack are small unless you smoke. Studies have shown that smoking dramatically increases the risk of heart attack in women age 35 years or older, which is why pills are generally not prescribed to women in this age group who smoke. Blood pressure. Women taking birth control pills usually have a small increase in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, although readings usually remain within the normal range. Migraines and stroke. Women who take oral contraceptive and have a history of migraines have an increased risk of stroke compared to nonusers with a history of migraine. Blood clots (Venous thromboembolism). Women who use birth control pills are at a slightly increased risk of having a blood clot in the legs or lungs. Studies consistently show that the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) is two to six times higher in oral contraceptive users than in nonusers. The risk of blood clots is highest in women with clotting disorders or who have previously had a deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. Other risk factors include obesity, older age, having several family members who've had blood clots before old age, air travel, and having to lie or sit for a prolonged period, as you might after major surgery. Headaches. Headaches may start in women who have not previously had headaches, or can get worse in those who do. Depression. Depression (sometimes severe) and other mood changes may occur. Nausea and vomiting. This side effect usually goes away after the first few months of use or can be prevented by taking the pill with a meal. Breast tenderness. Your breasts may become tender or may get larger. Breast tenderness is relatively common during the first month of BCPs and uncommon thereafter. Breakthrough bleeding or spotting. Spotting or bleeding between menstrual periods is very common in the first cycle of pills or if pills are missed or taken late. Decreased enjoyment of sex. Some women experience a decreased interest in sex or a decreased ability to have orgasms. Weight gain. Some women report slight weight gain. Weight gain is often caused by fluid retention or estrogen-induced fat deposits in the thighs, hips, and breasts. Weight gain may also be related to a reduction in physical activity or increased intake of food. In some women the androgenic effects from the progestins in their OCs can increase their appetite. Chloasma. Darkening of the skin on the upper lip, under the eyes, or on the forehead (chloasma). This may slowly fade after you stop taking the pills, but in most cases, it is permanent. Other medications. Birth control pills may not be as effective if you are taking certain medications. Many medications, including antibiotics, antifungals, anticonvulsants, herbal drugs like St. John's Wort, can change the amount of the pill hormones absorbed by the stomach and the metabolism of these hormones. Not suitable for everyone. Some women should not take pills if they have specific health conditions, including some types of diabetes, liver disease, cardiovascular disease. Women with risk factors for heart disease, such as those with high blood pressure or who are obese, are also at higher risk when on the Pill. Must be taken every day. You must remember to take the pills at the same time every day. Pills must be taken every day, even if a woman does not have intercourse that day. Must use a secondary form of birth control for the initial seven days of use. Diarrhea or vomiting. Anything that makes the pill go through your system too fast can make the pill not work as well because it was not absorbed or, worse, if it is lost in the vomit. Requires a prescription. Cost. The pill costs more than some other methods.

Contraception - Birth Control Pills Advantages And Disadvantages

Fitness And Contraception After Pregnancy

2011-08-19T16:59:00.001-07:00

Fitness And Contraception After Pregnancy

After pregnancy, reducing the weight gained is a time consuming process. Even though childbirth is a pleasurable experience, it is traumatic for both the mother and the baby. Hence, rapid weight loss after pregnancy can cause adverse effects. Due to vigorous exercises after pregnancy, prolapse might also occur. Prolapse is a condition, which occurs due to weak pelvic floor muscles.

Mild And Simple Exercises Recommended

Hence, immediately after delivery, vigorous and sustained exercises must not be undertaken. Only gentle exercise is recommended. A physician's advice for dieting and fitness programs should be undertaken. Your physician will also tell you that only after 2 or 3 months of delivery, when the periods resume to normalcy, should exercises and dieting be undertaken. Exercises such as sit-ups, "bicycling," or "scissors" should definitely be avoided immediate after pregnancy.

Breast Feeding And Weight Loss

Breastfeeding is a kind of birth control, provided certain criteria are met. Like a balanced diet is necessary for the quality and quantity of breast milk without depleting the mother's requirements. Three or more servings of milk products and Vitamin A should be taken daily. Contrary to popular myth, physical exercises do not interfere with breast-feeding.

Healthy Eating And Post Delivery Recovery

The body needs at least six months to recoup after pregnancy. Healthy food is necessary for first three months after pregnancy rather than dieting. Intake of folic acid, calcium, and iron is essential after delivery. Also post delivery caffeine is not harmful when taken in limited amounts. However, exhaustion caused by delivery, and night feeds require more focus than worrying about weight loss.

FAQs About Contraception And Intercourse After Pregnancy

Here are some facts that will help you decide the right contraception for yourself after pregnancy

Q: When does resumption of menstrual period takes place after delivery?

A: Usually, the first period occurs after two months of childbirth, but it is also dependent on breast-feeding. Some women resume menstrual cycle only after weaning the baby from breast-feeding. By breast-feeding, the brain suppresses the ovulating hormone due to sucking. If breast-feeding is sought as a mode of contraception, round the clock feeding is necessary, as the intensity and frequency of sucking determines the hormone suppression.

Q: What is the best waiting time for intercourse and contraception after delivery and which types of contraceptives are recommended after delivery?

A: Though women are not inclined towards intercourse immediately after delivery, contraceptives are still advised. Contraceptives are essential after delivery, incase of immediate intercourse, since at that time ovulation cannot be predicted. However, intercourse within first six weeks after delivery is not recommended. Immediately after delivery, barrier contraceptives such as Progesterone mini-pill is the only contraceptive pill, which does not contraindicate with breast-feeding, and injectable contraceptives like Depo-Provera are advised. Incase of diaphragm, it has to be replaced, and IUDs needs to be placed only when uterus is completely healed.

Contraception - Fitness And Contraception After Pregnancy

Barrier Methods of Contraception

2011-08-17T16:54:00.001-07:00

Barrier Methods of Contraception

The barrier methods of birth control work by preventing the sperm from reaching the egg. The idea of inserting something into the vagina to prevent pregnancy is not new. Such devices were called pessaries and they were used by the ancient Egyptians.

Pessaries were mentioned as early as 1850 B.C. in the Petri Papyrus. The formula then was a mixture of crocodile dung and honey which was placed in the vagina prior to intercourse.

"Interestingly, this mixture not only acted as a barrier to sperm, but had some broad spermicidal effects. If a convenient crocodile wasn't available, elephant dung could be used," said Dr. Niels Lauersen, a diplomate of the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Steven Whitney in "It's Your Body: A Woman's Guide to Gynecology."

Various formulas of pessaries were used throughout the world. Elephant dung and honey was the preferred combina¬tion in India and Africa. In Persia during the 10th century, pessaries were made of mixed rock salt and an oily material.

The most popular pessary, however, was invented by Walter Rendell, a London chemist who lived in the late 1800s. Seeing how many people suffered from the burden of having too many children, Rendell developed a pessary containing quinine which he distributed freely to customers at his pharmacy.

"The results of this new pessary exceeded his expecta¬tions. Requests were logged so rapidly that the pessary was marketed commercially in 1886. By the turn of the century, the product was a best seller throughout the world. In fact, until the 20th century, quinine was the only recognized spermicide which could be used with complete safety," Lauersen and Whitney added.

With the popularity of pessaries, new formulas were developed using less irritating substances. Today's barrier methods of contraception include the diaphragm, vaginal sponge, condom and cervical cap. These are often used together with chemical barriers such as creams, jellies, foams and suppositories. Let's examine them one by one.

DIAPHRAGM AND CERVICAL CAP
The diaphragm is a molded rubber cap which blocks sperm as it covers the cervix and the back of the vagina. It must be inserted for each act of intercourse and left on for six to eight hours afterward.

A smaller version of the diaphragm is the cervical cap which covers only the cervix but works the same way. Unlike the diaphragm, however, this device must be fitted by a physician. Women may find it difficult to do the same because the cap must be inserted deep within the vagina.

The first real diaphragm was created by Aetius of Amida in the 6th century using the fruit of the pomegranate tree. After removing the seeds and pulp of that fruit, Aetius told women to insert the hollow end into the vagina before intercourse.

In 1883, Dr. Frederick Wilde, a German physician, described how a rubber cap could block sperm, but it was Dr. Wilhelm Mensinga, another German, who popularized the method. (Next: Disadvantages of diaphragms.)

Contraception - Barrier Methods of Contraception

Obesity and Birth Control Pills

2011-08-16T16:42:00.001-07:00

Obesity and Birth Control Pills

The first face - The failure of birth control pills

A recent study has found that overweight or obesity increases the chances of pregnancy while using birth control pills. Gynecologists say that birth control pills (also known as oral contraceptives) have not enough effect on overweight or obese women. Overweight (BMI 25 to 29.9) women have 60% and obese (BMI 30 or more) women have 70% more chances of pregnancy than normal weight (BMI 18.5 to 24.9) women while taking oral contraceptives regularly. For women who missed oral contraceptive, the risk of pregnancy more than doubled compare to overweight or obese women. Study says that out of hundred overweight women taking the oral contraceptives, five got pregnant while only three out of hundred normal weight women who take oral contraceptives got pregnant each year.

The reason of failure of oral contraceptives is not clearly known. This is a big research area. They said there are several possibilities for failure of oral contraceptives in obese women.

o The hormones in oral contraceptives are soluble in fat which is in enough quantity in obese women. Due to this, fat hormones dissolve in fat rather than entering the bloodstream.

o Metabolism is also a major cause. The basal metabolic rate increases according to body weight; more the body weight, more basal metabolic rate. The increase in metabolic rate decreases the duration of medication effect. This is the also one of the causes due to which oral contraceptives do not work.

o Due to obesity, there is an increase in liver enzymes which help metabolize the hormones in oral contraceptives.

o Nowadays the hormones level in oral contraceptives is reduced by five times than first introduced.

o Circulating blood volume in obese women is greater than normal women in which the steroids are transported. Fat cells may sequester steroids. Obese women also metabolize steroids in different way than normal one.

Now the real question arises. Should overweight women who don't want to risk an unplanned pregnancy should take more oral contraceptives or higher dose oral contraceptives or not? Gynecologists say it is not necessarily because overweight or obese women have more chances of cardiovascular disease risk factors than normal weight women. They suggest that obese women who completed childbearing use some permanent form of birth control such as tubal sterilization.

Obese women who want to be pregnant may use condom or other methods. Another method for obese women suggests that first they should lose their weight, and then plan to use oral contraceptives. For weight loss, obese women can use weight loss diet pills, natural supplements, exercise, yoga and other weight loss programs. Through exercise losing weight takes more time which is not considerable for women. For quick weight loss they can use weight loss diet pills.

The second face- Birth control pills- Reason of Obesity

Gynecologists say that birth control pills (oral contraceptives) may have many side effects; one of them is weight gain or obesity. Most of the women get five pounds weight after taking oral contraceptives. Normally women get weight after few days or a month from starting of taking the pills. In most of the cases, women gain weight who do not take oral contraceptives in the last half of their menstrual cycle; this is due to hormonal changes. This is also important to know why women get obese by taking oral contraceptives. Reasons for this are as follows.

o Due to oral contraceptives, the level of metabolism alters. This is because both the estrogen and progestin present in these pills can cause fluid retention, a temporary effect that often begins in the first month as a result of an increase in sodium. The cause of weight gain (increase of hips, breast, or thigh) is due to estrogen.

o Oral contraceptives contain progestin which cause increase in appetite and permanent weight gain.

o Pills administered for depression may also be the cause of weight gain.

Women who get weight due to oral contraceptives may loose weight through weight loss diet pills, natural supplements, exercise, yoga and other weight loss programs.

For more information on weight loss diet pills visit: http://www.pillslim.com

Contraception - Obesity and Birth Control Pills

Do Latex Condoms Cause Yeast Infections?

2011-08-15T16:41:00.001-07:00

Do Latex Condoms Cause Yeast Infections?

Some women complain that after using condoms during a sexual encounter, they develop yeast infections. It turns out they're right. Latex condoms can cause infections in people who have latex allergies.

Up to 4% of the general population have allergies to latex. Natural rubber latex comes from a substance that is released by a tree found in Southeast Asia called H. braziliensis. A condom is considered a "dipped rubber" product because it is dipped into a vat of rubber.

Latex has natural rubber proteins which sometimes induce formation of antibodies called IgE antibodies. Once antibodies are formed, the next time a latex-sensitive person is exposed to the latex, mast cells release chemicals which cause an allergic reaction. The more someone is exposed to allergens, the more IgE antibodies are produced next time the person is exposed to the allergen.

When someone is allergic to latex condoms, they can develop normal allergic reactions such as swelling. The result can be a vaginal infection.

Is there any way for a latex-sensitive woman to use condoms with her partner? No one wants to use condoms that cause yeast infections right? The best thing to do is to avoid condoms made out of latex. What about safe sex? Latex condoms are one of the safest protections against STDs. Lambskin condoms protect against pregnancy, but not STDs.

One option is to for the male to put on the condom, assuming he too is not allergic to latex.He can then put a lambskin condom over the latex so that the condom is not touching the inside of the vagina. This method can drastically decrease the incidence of yeast infections.

Contraception - Do Latex Condoms Cause Yeast Infections?

Can You Still Get Pregnant While on Birth Control?

2011-08-14T16:39:00.001-07:00

Can You Still Get Pregnant While on Birth Control?

Apart from complete abstinence, no method of birth control is 100% effective, there is a small chance that couples using contraception can still conceive. Here, then, are five key reasons why this may happen.

1. Contraception not used properly.

The main reason why contraception fails to work is that it is not used properly. For example, women forget to take the Pill, or if they are on the mini Pill they take it at the wrong time of day. Condoms are sometimes put on incorrectly - if there is any air in then friction can cause the latex to burst or tear. A condom that is too large can slip off, spilling semen. Similarly cervical caps need to be checked to ensure their position does not need adjusting. Even intrauterine devices (IUDs) need checking every so often.

2. Inconsistent use of contraception

Having unprotected sex "just this once" can result in conception, as can sex while the Pill is being taken but inconsistently so (see above).

3. Antibiotics

Antibiotics in the blood stream can interact with the birth control pill, decreasing the effective levels of hormones and with that the efficiency of this method. This is the reason why women are advised to use a back-up form of contraception, such as condoms, when they are taking antibiotics.

4. Split condoms

Split and broken condoms are an occasional occurrence. The main reasons are using the wrong size of condom in the first place and/or failing to expel air from the condom before it is put on. Using lubricants can help too as these reduce friction - but it needs to be a latex-safe lubricant. Other lubricants can actually weaken the latex and cause it to split so exacerbate the problem.

5. Having sex during the "safe time"

In fact there is no such thing as a safe time for unprotected sex - most conceptions take place during a woman' mid cycle but they can also get pregnant on days considered as non fertile. Also, importantly many women don't have regular cycles all the time. So sex without contraception is ill-advised unless you are actually trying to conceive, no matter what time of the month it is.

Contraception - Can You Still Get Pregnant While on Birth Control?

Teen Sex Statistics - Do "Trendy Sexual Behaviors" Give Reason to Brag

2011-08-13T13:46:00.001-07:00

Teen Sex Statistics - Do "Trendy Sexual Behaviors" Give Reason to Brag

How great is the number for those who indulge in teen sex, regardless of numeral configuration, even if that number be one, then it is a problem and more so if both parties are unaware of what can rise from having unprotected sex. The outcome can be that of falling pregnant or catching a sexually transmitted disease (STD.) Okay, getting together with the opposite sex will eventually happen at some time or other (if gay same agenda) so why not make that some time "the right time." When is the right time, this will depend on what your beliefs are as to whether 15 16 17 years is ideal for a sexual relationship. Remember it is a crime to have underage sex. If you are adamant to go ahead with coupling then at least do your homework first. You need to consider all possibilities which contribute to an unwanted pregnancy occurring or worse still catching a disease that can do more damage that you can imagine.

Sex statistics should never really be taken seriously because of imperfect measurements. Getting people to talk about their sex lives honestly is a difficult mission, especially if it includes a group that is in any way marginalized, as teens are. However study goes on, to help describe and understand sexual behaviors among teens. Here are some facts on statistics and sexual behaviors of interest?

In America nearly half of all 15-19-year-old`s have had sexual intercourse at least once. By the age 15, only 13% of teens have ever had sex, you are breaking the law at this age. By the time 19, seven in 10 teens have had sex. The norm we find for having sex for the first time is that of 17. Teens are wising up to the dangers than that of in the past where teen sex was greater in number. Thankfully teens are taking heed of the alerts telling of the dangers from having unprotected sex. Thirteen percent of females and 15% of males aged 15-19 in 2002 had had sex before age 15, compared with 19% and 21%, respectively, in 1995.

In England and Wales, the law on Sexual Offenses were changed. However the legal age for young people to consent to have sex still remains at 16, whether you are straight, gay or bisexual. Although the age of consent remains at 16, the law will make no intervention unless it involves abuse or exploitation. Under the Sexual Offenses Act you still have the right to confidential advice on contraception, condoms, pregnancy and abortion, even if you are under the legal age. In the US different states may have different age laws for legal sex.

Unfortunately we still have the minute few who believe they know it all until the inevitable happens. Many teens are prepared to take sexual risks despite more than ten years of public warnings. Teen sex should never be an event of chance in hope God will make things right should they go wrong. Nip it in the bud so no prayers have to be said in regards to falling pregnant or catching an STD. The outcome of intensive research showed new infections of the Aids virus in 1999 were the highest in over 10 years.

In reply from some teens who were asked why so early for sex, was, "it is trendy and everyone one else is doing it" so why not me. Another point of interest was, it was a way of showing off where teens would boast "Hey everyone I have done it." Well this may be the in thing to do but did you ever give any thought to showing off a bump on the belly or a prison ID number when having your mug shot photo taken.

Many teens openly admit to that of feeling pressurized to lose their virginity. The most prominent fear from having unprotected sex was highlighted as to an unwanted pregnancy (88%) and 87% said an STD. To keep safe you have to think condom. Using a condom is one of the safest forms of birth control used and a powerful deterrent against catching a sexually transmitted disease.

We have the male and female condom. The male condom is made of thin latex (rubber) or polyurethane and fits over an erect penis. Condoms are lubricated to make them easier to use.
A condom acts as a barrier between the penis and the vagina, the penis and the mouth, or the penis and the anus. This does not mean sexual intercourse can not take place. A condom will cover the entire penis to prevent sperm entering the vagina.

For women the female condom is made from soft polyurethane and is located inside the vagina. It is held in place by a ring at either end; it lines the vagina and stops sperm getting into it. Using condoms bring no side affects unlike some other forms of contraception.
The female condom if properly inserted is 95% effective. Condoms have been known to split. Problems which occur from using the female condom is - if it slips or moves out of place from not being properly inserted. You can find out more at any family planning clinic where contraception and advice is given freely.

Below some useful resource centers should you need help and advice?

1 Get Connected - One-stop helpline for young people. This organization evolves round youngsters who feel they want to run away from home or have already done so. Services include compassionate support, help and guidance.

Helpline: 0808 808 4994 open 1pm-11pm seven days a week

2 Childlike - an organization which provides a free, confidential telephone counseling service for children or young people regardless of what the nature of the problem is.

National helpline: 0800 1111. Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

3 Avert services are more connected to health

International aids & medical research charity.

Telephone: 01403 210202

Never be frightened or to embarrassed to seek help. Prevention is better than any cure. Pick up the phone for a brighter future.

4 bpas (British Pregnancy Advisory Service)

Telephone: 0845 730 4030

Organization of many options i.e. dealing with unplanned pregnancy, emergency contraception, free pregnancy testing and vasectomy services.

Contraception - Teen Sex Statistics - Do "Trendy Sexual Behaviors" Give Reason to Brag

Birth Control Rings

2011-08-12T13:35:00.001-07:00

Birth Control Rings

Birth control rings are becoming more and more popular of late as an effective, easy-to-use alternative to more traditional forms of birth control such as the combined and mini pill. If used properly, they can be very effective at preventing pregnancy; however, as with every type of contraceptive there are caveats and side effects. Here's what you need to know.

Birth control devices such as the NuvaRing are soft, donut-shaped about two inches in diameter that are inserted into the vagina. Once inside the vagina, it slowly release the hormones estrogen and progesterone into the blood stream over a 3 or 4 week period, preventing ovulation and thickening the cervical mucus membrane. However, these hormones usually take a full seven days to take affect, so for the first one or two weeks of your new regimen, you should continue using an alternative form of birth control such as the male condom (which also protects against sexually transmitted diseases) or diaphragm.

When used correctly, contraceptive rings rival pills in effectiveness at more than 99% effectiveness; however, also like with the pill, human error is an issue. In typical use, actual effectiveness rates average only about 95%. Most mistakes revolve around a woman forgetting to insert a new ring at the beginning of every cycle although occasionally, rings are known to fall out unnoticed.

Possible side effects of birth control rings include irregular menstrual bleeding, mood changes, blood clots, vaginal irritation, and discharge. Additionally, it is recommend that women who smoke or are over the age of 35 not use birth control rings as those two risk factors may increase the incidence and severity of side effects.

In conclusion, the birth control ring is a viable alternative for non-smoking women under the age of 35 years old. Only your doctor can help you decide if it's the right birth control option for you.

Contraception - Birth Control Rings

Methods of Contraception and the Ovulation Calendar

2011-08-11T13:34:00.001-07:00

Methods of Contraception and the Ovulation Calendar

To begin with it's important to know what a contraception is. It is a device or method which keeps the sperm from the male, from entering the woman's egg during sexual activity. OTC means that they can be purchased over the counter without having to obtain a prescription. In addition to this is the ability to be able to use an ovulation calendar.

On the market today, there is available an "over-the-counter" method which is considered to be a contraceptive, but there is some controversy about it because it is used after implantation which of course, causes it to enter into the "pro-life and pro-choice" debate. Whatever you position on this is, this method is to be used only on an occasional basis.

There are several other OTC contraceptive methods that can be used and supported with an ovulation calendar. The first one which is used on the male, is the condom. This device is used to prevent the sperm from getting into the woman's vagina. It is placed over the man's penis to collect all the sperm after he ejaculates. They can be bought with lubrication or without and can be used with another form of contraception, jelly, cream or foam, for further protection.

There is also a condom for the woman, plastic pouches with rings at each end. These collect the semen, therefore preventing it from reaching the egg. It is inserted into the vagina, very similar to the diaphragm, with the closed end in the farthest and the open end outside the vagina about an inch.

Many spermicides are available as an over-the-counter method of birth control. These products are placed very deep into the vagina in the form of creams, film, jelly, suppositories and foams. The sperm can not get past these barriers, because they melt after being put in place, which is before intercourse. The foam forms little bubbles, but does the same job. These methods are not 100% effective, so you should use a condom as well.

The sponge is about two inches in diameter, made from a polyurethane foam and contains a spermicide, with a loop at the bottom, so you can remove it easily. It needs to be moistened, then placed inside the vagina, over the cervix, which is the opening to the uterus. This device blocks the sperm from entering the uterus and implanting the egg.

Another method of birth control, which many women choose to use, because it is all natural is the ovulation calendar as the only method of contraceptive. This will involve keeping track of your menstrual periods, the dates for them, keeping a diary of your temperature when you awaken and noticing how the cervical fluids are flowing over the month.

These signs will tell you when you are the most fertile, so do not have intercourse on those days. Consult with your physician for an explanation of the cycle if you are not sure of everything when using your ovulation calendar. In conjunction with your notes, your doctor should be able to tell you about the best dates and what exactly to look for.

Contraception - Methods of Contraception and the Ovulation Calendar

How to Choose the Right Contraceptive Pill?

2011-08-10T13:33:00.001-07:00

How to Choose the Right Contraceptive Pill?

There has been a big confusion among the members of the fairer sex about which contraceptive pills to use. The market is flooded with different types of pills that help in post-coital contraception and it is a little difficult for most women to make the right decision regarding this. More than 30 brands of emergency contraceptive pills are available on the market. Let us start from the basics and then move on the question "Which pill to choose?"

Contraceptive pills are basically a type of birth control pills that can be used up to 120 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse to prevent an unwanted pregnancy. These pills should not be confused with abortion pills. Contraceptive pills do not harm the foetus. Most contraceptive pills work similarly. These pills contain synthetic versions of naturally occurring female hormones, oestrogen and progesterone. Some pills are a combination of both the hormones and some contain only one. They work by preventing ovulation.

You can see great results if you use these pills in the right dosage. The most common side effects of these pills are vaginal discharge, headache, blood clots, weight gain/loss, nausea and sleeplessness. Most firm that are trying to market these pills claim that they are 99% effective but there have been no studies so far that can prove the effectiveness of over the counter emergency contraceptive pills. The effectiveness of the pill will reduce if you do not take it as prescribed. Also, ensure that you take only prescription drugs. Let us have a look at some effective prescription drugs available on the market.

Mercilon

Mercilon tablets contain two active ingredients, ethinylestradiol and desogestrel. Both these ingredients are synthetic version of progesterone and Oestrogen. It works by tricking the body that it is has already ovulated and hence prevents the egg from ripening and being released from the ovaries every month. Also, it thickens by mucus around the womb and makes it almost impossible for the sperm to reach there.

Ovranette

This pill is also a type of hormonal contraception contains synthetic version of naturally occurring female hormones. This pill, too, works by tricking the body in to believing that ovulation has already happened. Hence the egg is not released from the ovary. It also increases the thickness of the womb lining.

Cerazette (Mini Pill)

Cerazette contains degosterol, the synthetic form of the female hormone progesterone. Cerazette is also known as the mini pill and works by preventing ovulation. You need to take this drug back to back without a break and this includes the time when you are having your period. Ideally, start taking this drug exactly on the day your period starts.

Micronor (Mini Pill)

This pill is also, sometimes, referred to as "mini pill". It contains norethisterone. Micronor works by affecting the natural mucus at the cervix, increasing the thickness of the womb lining and preventing ovulation.

Always consult a doctor before choosing any contraceptive pill, as only a doctor can tell you which pill best suits you.

Contraception - How to Choose the Right Contraceptive Pill?

The Catholic Church, Their Stance Against Contraception, HIV-Aids and Condom Use

2011-08-09T13:32:00.001-07:00

The Catholic Church, Their Stance Against Contraception, HIV-Aids and Condom Use

It is widely known that the Catholic church is against contraception. In fact the Pope has made clear statements against the use of condoms, such as:

It is of great concern that the fabric of African life, its very source of hope and stability, is threatened by divorce, abortion, prostitution, human trafficking and a contraception mentality.

This article will argue that the negative implications of this position are far greater than the positive and that the Catholic church could do significant good in the world by advocating the use of condoms.

The negative implications of the Catholic stand against the use of contraceptives are evident around the world, but are especially marked in places such as South America and Africa. In countries where there is a high percentage of Catholics there is a greater tendency to give weight to Vatican decrees. This coincides with the fact that there are many developing countries with a high percentage of Catholics. Statements that prohibit or discourage the use of condoms (a barrier proved extremely effective against the spread of HIV and AIDS[1]) are therefore hugely detrimental to the fight against the spread of AIDS. Also disastrous are the statements made by the Vatican spreading misinformation about the effectiveness of condoms in preventing Aids. Catholic proposals to combat the spread of HIV focus on the promotion of abstinence and faithfulness; on first hearing an admirable teaching. It is also a teaching that fails on various levels.

Firstly, it is a teaching that fails because one cannot assume that just because a couple are married they are protected from HIV. In fact, married women in some of the southern African countries, particularly married adolescents (a common phenomenon in Africa), have a higher risk of being infected with HIV than unmarried women. In the all too common case that the husbands of these women are not faithful and themselves contract HIV, their wives - even if themselves entirely faithful, also become infected. Moreover it is not a safe assumption that a woman has any say in who she marries. Around the world women have been sold for cattle and betrothed in childhood or against their wills: It is therefore not always possible for women to choose a faithful husband, or even a husband who doesn't have HIV. (Of course, even in western countries there is much infidelity in marriage).

Secondly, teaching abstinence and faithfulness whilst at the same time teaching that the use of condoms is sinful presumes that people are uniform in their acceptance of any teaching: This is evidently not the case. Many people will accept (whether as myth or belief), because of the teachings of the Catholic church, that they should not use a condom or that condoms will be ineffectual in preventing HIV infection but many of those same people will maintain an active sex life.

Thirdly, the Catholic stance against condom use has led to national legislation and local pressures against the provision of contraceptives, creating significant problems relating to family planning. It has also resulted in hardship for those struggling to obtain condoms and sex health information, and raises the risk of individuals having sex without them. The Catholic church has been a significant factor in the stance taken by the Polish government against the use of contraceptives. The United Nations states that in Poland

women have no access to affordable contraception.

Indeed the statistics for Poland show that only 49% of women 'in union' between the ages of 15 and 49 currently use contraception as compared to, say, the United Kingdom where the statistic for the same demographic is 84%. Even within the United Kingdom, an example of a nation dominated by Protestantism rather than Catholicism, the Catholic church retains an influence. This was demonstrated recently by the blocking (by Catholic leaders) of contraceptive advice for circa 30,000 Scottish schoolgirls. In short, the Vatican's insistence that a combination of abstinence and faithfulness is a sufficient response to a global AIDS epidemic is clearly insufficient.

Why then is the Catholic church against the use of contraceptives? Does the bible actually forbid their use? The simple answer is no, the bible has very little to say on the use of contraception. It is Catholic dogma and not the bible that leads the Vatican to its current stance. One of the fundamental problems for the Catholic church stems from the fact that they suggest any method for controlling procreation at all (i.e. the rhythm method). This implies that the Catholic church accepts that the purpose of sex is not only for procreation: an idea that is clearly taught in the bible, which also shows sex to be for intimacy[2] and pleasure[3]. Whether it is the rhythm method or a condom surely the outcome is the same: That a couple have intercourse without having a child! To suggest, as the Vatican does, that the rhythm method is natural and condoms 'unnatural' is to allow dogma to get in the way of truth: You are "open to the transmission of life" in neither case. However, it is not the purpose of this article to debate the biblical basis for the position that the Catholic church takes. This debate has been carried out elsewhere, conclusively establishing that the bible does not forbid the use of contraceptives. A further point worthy of some debate, but also not looked at in depth in this article, is whether it is in fact wrong biblically (and when condoms allow us to avoid this) to deprive each other of sex for prolonged and regular periods (which is the reality of the rhythm method if there is to be any hope of avoiding a pregnancy before it is intended). We are taught not to deprive each other of sex except perhaps for a time for prayer[4].

The method proposed by the Catholic church as a solution to AIDS (abstinence and faithfulness) could be a great solution in different global circumstances and if people did not behave as in reality we know that they behave. Abstinence and faithfulness, although an admirable ideal, is not the answer: The Vatican must find an approach to the global AIDS epidemic that deals with the realities of the world. What then, could the Catholic church do? The simple answer is to publicly advocate in favour of condom use. Even if the Vatican were to support only organisations that were not involved in condom manufacture and distribution purely for profit, the benefits worldwide would be significant. There are organisations that distribute condoms for free in the developing nations, and even in western countries there are ethical companies from which it is possible to buy condoms online[5] that give large percentages of their profits to charity.

The Vatican advocating in favour of condoms would have two direct consequences.

One: That many more people around the world start using condoms. Individuals who currently struggle with the rhythm method of family planning would be freed of the worry inherent in that unreliable method, and the guilt brought about when they turn to other forms of contraception. Changes in government policies to allow and promote the use of contraceptives would surely lead to reduced HIV infection rates, as would the boost in stature and worldwide acceptance of condom use brought about by any public endorsement by the Vatican.

Two: The considerable good done by the many Catholic charities worldwide would not be hampered by a stance which runs contrary to much of the work that those organisations attempt, and in fact a stance which many Catholics do not agree with.

In short, the Catholic church has the power to do great good in the world by freeing itself from its fixation on a dogma that has caused much suffering. Without abandoning adherence to biblical truth the Catholic church could still support condom use and in so doing, significantly reduce the rates of HIV infection worldwide.

Contraception - The Catholic Church, Their Stance Against Contraception, HIV-Aids and Condom Use

Gynecologist Doctor - A Woman's Specialist

2011-08-08T12:57:00.001-07:00

Gynecologist Doctor - A Woman's Specialist

For women, making an appointment with a gynecologist doctor can be more beneficial than a primary care physician. Sometimes, it is important to see a specialist to get more insight into certain concerns and questions that you have. In some cases, a referral may be necessary.

For Women Only

A gynecologist doctor only sees women. This is important because it ensures that he or she is focused in one area and is up to date on the latest findings are research that deal with women's health issues. A family physician handles all ages and women as well as men and therefore has a general overview of health experience to help everyone.

Pregnancy

As soon as you become pregnant, it is time to seek out an appointment with a gynecologist doctor. They can begin with confirming the pregnancy and setting up a series of appointments for your care during this time. All tests, including sonograms, will either be taken care of by this MD, or be arranged by them. As the day draws closer, you will see him or her more and more frequently.

A specialist works with you during this specific time in your life. They are a physician for you as well as your unborn child. Throughout this time, feel free to ask questions about what types of things are normal, what things aren't and anything that you are unsure about. Because of their experience, they can help guide you through the process and provide any type of assistance that you need. They can even handle regular health care issues like a cold, the flu, or any other sickness that you may encounter while pregnant.

Childbirth

A woman's physician usually delivers babies in a hospital. After all of the care you received throughout the pregnancy, they are there for the big moment as well. Many of these physicians partner with others in their field to makes sure that someone in always on call for childbirth. You may want to make an appointment with some of the other physicians in the offices, just to get to know them in case they are on call the day or night you are going to deliver.

Contraception

There are so many different areas of focus for a woman's MD, but contraception is another one that many women make an appointment for. There are a variety of options, and this type of medical professional is going to have the most information about what will work well for your body, what the side effects may be and specific directions on how each works. Their expertise in this area can help you feel confident that you have chosen the best type of contraception for your body as well as your specific situation.

It is possible to see your regular physician as well as a woman's physician. Some women only see the specialist once a year for an exam or when there is a concern that deals specifically with a woman's health issue. Because of the sensitive nature of some of these things, it is important to find someone that you feel comfortable and able to communicate openly with. In this case, you may need a referral. Check with your health insurance provider for more specific information.

Contraception - Gynecologist Doctor - A Woman's Specialist

How Do Emergency Contraceptive Pills Work?

2011-08-07T12:55:00.001-07:00

How Do Emergency Contraceptive Pills Work?

You can prevent pregnancy in different ways and one of them is use of birth control pills. Most doctors, after proper clinical tests, have found these pills reliable. They are also known as oral contraceptives or emergency contraceptive pills. These pills do not have many potential side effects. They are convenient to use and easy to buy. These pills should not be confused with abortion pills. Emergency contraceptive pills do not harm the foetus. The best way to prevent a pregnancy is abstinence from sex and if you are planning a pregnancy, you should stop taking contraceptive pills.

These pills are of two types, one containing progestin while others have estrogen. More than 30 brands of emergency contraceptive pills are available on the market. You can differentiate between these brands based on the type and amount of hormones they contain. Millions of women use this pill to prevent an undesired pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse. These pills do not protect you against sexually transmitted diseases.

You can see great results if you use this medication in the right dosage. The most common side effects of these pills are headaches, blood clots, weight gain/loss, nausea and sleeplessness. Most companies, trying to sell these pills, claim that they are 99% effective but there have been no studies so far that can prove the effectiveness of over the counter emergency contraceptive pills. The effectiveness of the pill will reduce if you do not take it as prescribed.

If you are using birth control pills, you should avoid use of antibiotics along with it. The efficiency of birth control pills reduces when you take antibiotics. Contraceptive pills work best if the person taking it does not take any other medications with it. If you do not use these pills regularly, you may not see the desired results. Take these pills at the same time everyday and if you fail to do so, the effectiveness will drop by 4-5%.

ellaOne

ellaOne is a recently launched emergency contraceptive pill. It contains 30 mg of ulipristal acetate, which is a progesterone receptor modulator. This pill can be taken up to 120 hours after unprotected vaginal intercourse. Efficacy studies have shown that it is 98% effective in preventing pregnancy. You can take this pill if your partner's condom has split or if you forgot to use contraception. It works by stopping the ovaries from releasing an egg. It is available in 30mg dosage and it needs to be taken within 5 days of sexual intercourse. The sooner you take it, the more are your chances of preventing a pregnancy.

Levonelle

Another emergency contraceptive pill, Levonelle, which contains a female sex hormone progesterone, is used by many women as well. It works by suppressing the ovulation and preventing fertilization. This drug is extremely effective, if taken within 72 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse. Out of 100 women who take this drug, only 5 get pregnant. It works by stopping the sperm from fertilizing the egg. For best results, take it within 24 hours of unprotected sexual intercourse.

Contraception - How Do Emergency Contraceptive Pills Work?

The Woody Allen Quick Quips Survival Guide

2011-08-06T12:52:00.001-07:00

The Woody Allen Quick Quips Survival Guide

How do we handle the stress of life? Zen and yoga are probably on top of the list. But what's the next best thing?

Humor. Definitely humor.

Somehow it clears the mind. It's hard to be mad or sad when you're laughing. When impending clouds of gloom are pierced with a ray of sunny wit, they appear to dissolve quicker.

But sometimes we need help in finding something funny about our dilemma.

Fortunately, to our rescue comes Woody Allen. In his movies, despite the pathos of the plots, the hopeless dilemma of his characters, and the somber notes about the human condition, the one-liners keep you light-hearted about the unfolding existential angst.

Here are some one-liners you can use when you need to add levity to a challenging situation. Tweak accordingly.

And now here's W-o-o-d-y:

Bills piling up?

Try:

"Money is better than poverty, if only for financial reasons."

Government harassing you?

Try:

"I believe there is something out there watching us. Unfortunately, it's the government."

Feeling persecuted by morbid thoughts?

Try:

"There are worse things in life than death. Have you ever spent an evening with an insurance salesman?"

Relationship falling apart?

Try:

"Love is the answer, but while you're waiting for the answer, sex raises some pretty interesting questions."

Got rejected after a date?

Try:

"A fast word about oral contraception. I asked a girl to go to bed with me, she said 'no'."

Spouse driving you nuts?

Try:

"Basically my wife was immature. I'd be at home in the bath and she'd come in and sink my boats."

Deep questions about the meaning of life?

Try:

"I am not afraid of death, I just don't want to be there when it happens."

Embarrassed by inappropriate laughter?

Try:

"I am thankful for laughter, except when milk comes out of my nose."

Stuck listening to a religious lecture?

Try:

"If you want to make God laugh, tell him about your plans."

Try:

Need to shake off some gloom?

"The talent for being happy is appreciating and liking what you have, instead of what you don't have."

Contraception - The Woody Allen Quick Quips Survival Guide

Contraception With Condoms and the Ovulation Calendar

2011-08-05T12:40:00.001-07:00

Contraception With Condoms and the Ovulation Calendar

One of the most popular birth control devices is the condom. This collects the man's sperm before, during and after he ejaculates. The condom prevents the sperm from entering the woman's vagina. They are made of either latex or silicon, lubricated or dry. This is also one of the main protections against sexually transmitted diseases. When using a condom, it is also recommended to use another type of contraception, as the condom is not 100% guaranteed to prevent pregnancy. If used in combination with an ovulation calendar the risks are reduced much more significantly.

A condom is worn over an erect penis during intercourse and are available in many different colors. Men say that they maintain an erection longer by wearing a condom, and the fear of an unwanted pregnancy does have a definite affect on the enjoyment for both parties. Others say the opposite, they don't feel the same with a condom on, but the lubricated ones will help with the friction that causes problems. You must pre-plan when using condoms, have them ready for the moment and some complain that this takes away from the spontaneity.

Some family planning centers will provide condoms for free, or they are also available at drug stores. Some of them will encourage the use of the ovulation calendar to track ovulation as a safe natural alternative for birth control.

Be careful with condoms that you don't keep them around after the expiration date, as they will not last forever. Besides coming in different colors, they also will come in varying sizes, thickness, width and length, so a man must try each one until he finds one that fits him perfectly. When removing the condom after ejaculating, the man must be very careful that none of his semen comes in contact with the vagina. The condom must be put on before the penis enters the vagina at all. Having condoms with spermicide gives an added protection against pregnancy, as the agent destroys the sperm. Putting two condoms on gives added protection as well. Perhaps the female partner would like to add to this protection by tracking ovulation with the use of a ovulation calendar. These are easily obtained online and many times are free.

A woman ovulates once a month, so she should prepare for ovulation, by keeping track of her menstrual flow. Ovulation is when a woman's egg is passing through and will either get impregnated or keep right on going out with the flow of blood known as her period. The first day she starts to bleed, that is the first day, then record the day of the next months first day. The time in between is the length of your cycle. Normally these cycles last about 28 days. Ovulation can take place during the days between the 11th day and the 21st. This can be determined by your ovulation calendar.

There are ovulation kits available in your local drug store, and they will tell you your ovulation calendar, by the temperature of your body, and the day when you are most fertile will be when you are the warmest. During ovulation, the egg will live only 12-24 hours and sometimes a light spotting of blood will occur during ovulation.

Contraception - Contraception With Condoms and the Ovulation Calendar

What Exactly is a GUM Clinic?

2011-08-04T12:39:00.001-07:00

What Exactly is a GUM Clinic?

If you'd never encountered the term GUM clinic before, you could be forgiven for thinking that it was a surgery where you'd go to seek the services of a dental hygienist. But once you discover that the letters GUM stand for (Genito-Urinary Medicine), you'll quickly realise that GUM clinics are in fact sexual health clinics, and thus fulfil a rather different role!

So what exactly does "genito-urinary medicine" mean? And what happens at a GUM clinic?

As its name suggests, genito-urinary medicine deals with the urinary system and the male and female sex organs. At a GUM clinic, medical professionals will be able to test you for STIs and then prescribe appropriate treatment if you are unfortunate enough to have contracted an infection.

You can also be tested for various UTIs (urinary tract infections), including the bladder infection known as cystitis and the urethra infection known as urethritis. As any cystitis sufferer will testify, this condition can cause extreme discomfort, so it is comforting to know that treatments are available to help alleviate the condition's unpleasant symptoms, which include a painful burning sensation experienced when urinating.

Thrush (or "candida," to give it its proper medical name) and other infections of the genital area can also be diagnosed and treated at a GUM centre. All advice and treatment is administered free of charge, and information is always handled in complete confidence. This means that you can speak with GUM clinic staff frankly and openly, safe in the knowledge that anything you tell them will not be passed on to any third parties.

Sexual health clinics are often, but not always, located at a hospital or in a health centre. The range of sexual health services that these clinics provide is extensive. Services include HIV testing and counselling, contraception and contraception advice, testing and treatment for STIs, emergency contraception as well as contraception advice.

So whatever your query regarding sexual health, you'll find trained experts at your local GUM clinic who can answer all your questions regarding genito-urinary issues. If you do have any concerns, a visit to a GUM clinic could allay your fears or help you to deal with any problem that you may have.

Do bear in mind that some sexually transmitted infections don't exhibit any symptoms, but if your regular partner has been diagnosed with an STI or you have had unprotected sex, it would definitely be worth having a check-up.

Chlamydia, for example, is one STI that often remains symptomless, but one that it really pays to catch early. Once diagnosed, it can be treated quickly and effectively, thereby reducing the risks of long-term damage to the female reproductive system. However, if left untreated, it carries a long-term risk of infertility, which may well cause heartbreak a few years down the line, just when you're ready to settle down and hoping to start a family.

If you want to find STI testing services in your local area, you can check online using your postcode. Alternatively, you could consult the phone book under Sexual Health. If, on the other hand, you're concerned that you might attend a centre where someone could recognise you, you can equally well be tested at a clinic that's further afield, as GUM clinics are located the length and breadth of the UK.

Contraception - What Exactly is a GUM Clinic?

Cycle Beads Review - Natural Family Planning Made Easy

2011-08-03T12:35:00.001-07:00

Cycle Beads Review - Natural Family Planning Made Easy

Research has shown that many couples who choose natural family planning do so because it has no worrisome side effects. Although for some avoiding birth control is a religious decision, for many others it's a health consideration. Natural family planning can help a woman get in touch with her cycle and develop more respect for her body, and some couples say it is good for the relationship because it fosters good communication about the sexual relationship.

While many couples rely on a calendar, chart or tools such as a thermometer to keep up with where the woman is in her cycle, a simpler method is available: Cycle Beads. Cycle Beads are an easy to use, totally natural tool that makes it much easier to use natural family planning to predict ovulation and either prevent or plan a pregnancy.

Cycle Beads are a string of 32 colored beads (they look like an oversized necklace), each one representing one day of a woman's menstrual cycle. (Most women have a 28 day cycle, but some have up to 32 days in each cycle, hence the extra beads. If a woman has more than 32 days in her cycle, she's probably not a good candidate for Cycle Beads.) The string of beads has a small black rubber ring that is moved from bead to bead each day. The color of the beads indicate the likelihood of pregnancy.

The first bead is red which represents the first day of the period, where the woman starts the cycle each month. When the woman gets to the fertile time of her cycle, the beads are white instead of colored. So if a woman wants to avoid pregnancy, she would need to abstain during this time or use another method of contraception. Or if she is trying to achieve pregnancy, she will know when she is ovulating.

Dr. Victoria Jennings, PhD, the developer of Cycle Beads, says that their failure rate is about 5%, which incidentally is the same as the failure rate of the birth control pill according to some sources, and far better than the condom. Women who have irregular cycles may not want to use Cycle Beads, but the majority of women can use them quite effectively.

Since nursing affects a woman's fertility, moms who are breastfeeding need to have had 4 periods after the birth of her baby before they begin using Cycle Beads for best results.

Cycle Beads are also useful for women to use not as a birth control device but to be more aware of their cycle. Young women just starting their period could use them to educate themselves about their cycle.

Contraception - Cycle Beads Review - Natural Family Planning Made Easy

What is a Condom?

2011-08-02T12:34:00.001-07:00

What is a Condom?

A condom is a sheath made of thin and elastic rubber used during sexual intercourse. It is worn by men over the penis and is used to prevent pregnancy and the onset of sexually transmitted diseases. Other terms used for condoms are rubber and prophylactic.

A condom blocks the male's semen from entering a vagina or a sexual partner's reproductive organ.

Discovered evidences show that Egyptians have been using condoms for contraception or ritual purposes since 150 AD. In the 1500s, a published description of a condom was found in Italy. Soaking cloth in a certain chemical solution and drying the cloth before use have proven to be effective against syphilis.

In 1855, Charles Goodyear produced the first condom made from rubber. These rather thick devices were reusable but expensive. It was only 1912 that thinner condoms were developed in Germany.

The male condom is worn around the penis while the penis is in its excited state, meaning it is erect. It comes rolled in a small flat package. Before putting it on, a small space at tip of the condom must left to allow space to collect semen. After ejaculation, the penis must be pulled out the vagina before it softens to prevent semen from accidentally entering the vagina. A used condom must be properly disposed of after intercourse and must be used once only.

A person, male or female, may develop allergies to latex, the material from which condoms are made. The penis or the vagina may also get irritated from lubricants used in some condoms.

Contraception - What is a Condom?

Am I Pregnant Quiz - 100% Confirm Pregnancy Signs Before Missed Periods

2011-08-01T12:33:00.001-07:00

Am I Pregnant Quiz - 100% Confirm Pregnancy Signs Before Missed Periods

Have you been sexually active? If yes then you have a 20% chance of getting pregnant in this cycle. You can feel safe if you are using some reliable birth control method. One must always keep in mind that any birth control method is not 100 % reliable. Am I pregnant quiz enables any sexually active woman to detect her pregnancy signs even before missing periods.

Am I Pregnant Quiz

Answer these questions either "yes" or "no". If the answer of below mentioned 5 questions is yes, then there are bright chances that you are pregnant.

Are You Experiencing Nausea? You must have heard something about morning sickness. This pregnancy sign begins to occur even before the missed period. Sometimes a woman can experience this sign at any time of the day.

A woman can be pregnant and might not experience nausea. On the other hand a woman can be nauseated because of food poisoning, virus or stress.

Is there a Change in Appetite? If you notice the cravings of certain foods then this is also a sign of pregnancy before missed period. The cravings for odd combination of foods or non-food items is a confirm pregnancy sign.

Are the Energy Levels Or Moods Different? In the period of pregnancy, the body undergoes many changes that may cause a person to feel unusually tired. Women also experience mood swings like being stressed, depressed or more emotional.

Having More Aches and Pains? Earliest pregnancy symptoms also include headache, backache and tender breasts. These signs of pregnancy may continue for the whole duration of pregnancy or may fade away in the coming months.

Are You Making Frequent Trips To The Rest Room? If you are always going to the rest room or waking up in the night to urinate then this may be the sign that you are pregnant.

Results

Contraception - Am I Pregnant Quiz - 100% Confirm Pregnancy Signs Before Missed Periods

Can Oral Contraceptives Cause Candida?

2011-07-31T12:25:00.001-07:00

Can Oral Contraceptives Cause Candida?

Acidophilus is certainly a great way to take care of Candida overgrowth, but what if you don't know you have Candidiasis? The truth is a Candida infection causes symptoms that closely resemble a slew of other illnesses. To make matters worse, many people continue to have an overgrowth of Candida in their system without knowing the cause. For instance, if you're a woman taking birth control pills, did you know that you have a 20% higher risk of developing Candidiasis related infections than other women?

What is the relationship between Candida overgrowth and the Pill?

Birth control pills effect hormones and induce hormonal changes that lower a woman's ability to control Candida overgrowth, which can trigger yeast infections.

Research has discovered that yeast cells have estrogen receptors which are stimulated by hormones in the birth control pill, and can cause the growth of yeast.

Most women who develop yeast infections from the Pill tend to have an outbreak when there is significant hormone chance such as when they -

- First begin taking oral contraceptives

- Are close to their period

- Change oral contraceptives

- Go back on the Pill after discontinuing use.

However, the vast majority of women who take the pill don't develop yeast infections. Furthermore, yeast infections may develop due to other causes such as diet, antibiotics or other product use.

You can reduce the development of Candidiasis when taking oral contraceptives by:

- Sticking to cotton undergarments - Make sure your panties have cotton lining, but it's best to wear all-cotton underwear. Nylon traps moisture against your skin and doesn't absorb moisture like cotton does to keep skin dry. Trapped moisture breeds bacteria growth. You should also avoid nylon and spandex leotards when working out.

- Change out of exercise clothing - After you've exercised remove your clothing and put on dry clothes as soon as possible, even if you can't take a shower.

- Sleep without underwear - This will help your vaginal area to breath.

- Minimize the use of panty liners - Wearing panty liners every day can increase the risk of yeast infection because the plastic on the bottom of the liners locks in moisture. Also, when on your period, change your pad frequently.

- Lower the sugar in your diet - Refrain from eating foods that contain high sugars, as sugar encourages the growth of yeast. It's also a good idea to add yogurt that contains "active bacterial culture" to your diet to help replenish the good bacteria you need in your system that helps control yeast overgrowth.

- Avoid perfumes - Do not use scented toilet paper or feminine hygiene products this can cause irritation. In addition, if you are sensitive to perfume you also shouldn't take scented baths.

- Avoid douching - This washes out the good bacteria and creates an imbalance making you open to infection.

When to see your doctor

- If you have never had a vaginal yeast infection before - you should make sure you have is a yeast infection. Some sexually transmitted diseases like Herpes, can present symptoms similar to a yeast infection. Additionally, if you've never had a yeast infection, it's best to ask your doctor what over-the-counter product they recommend to help clear your infection.

There are many products and not all work to eliminate yeast. Two of the more effective and recommended products available are those that contain miconazole (Monistat 7) and clotrimazone (Gyne-Lotrimin).

- If you have repeat yeast infections (4 or more per year) - If you are taking oral contraceptives and are developing frequent yeast infections you may want to discuss other methods of birth control with your doctor, and carefully consider your diet and lifestyle. You may also want to have your male partner checked for a yeast infection, especially if he is not circumcised, as he may be passing it on to you.

Contraception - Can Oral Contraceptives Cause Candida?

Problems With IUDs

2011-07-30T12:23:00.003-07:00

Problems With IUDs

What makes the intrauterine device (IUD) a convenient contraceptive? Aside from being highly effective when used properly, this device does not interrupt intercourse and has long-lasting contraceptive effects.

"For the woman who can use an IUD, the advantages are great because she does not have to worry about contraception each day. The effectiveness rate is high, with only about a five percent chance of pregnancy," according to the editors of Consumer Guide's "Family Health & Medical Guide."

But things can go wrong for several reasons. If the IUD is not inserted correctly, pregnancy can occur. And the bad part is that IUD users who become pregnant are likely to miscarry. Pregnancy among IUD users also increases the chances of infection, premature delivery and stillbirth.

To avoid this, the IUD comes with a small string which the wearer can use to make sure the device is in place. The string also helps the physician in removing the device. Some women can't tolerate the IUD and it may be expelled during menstruation. Although many women can feel this happening, others may not. This can create problems later.

"To reduce the already small risk of getting pregnant with an IUD, make sure that whoever inserts it has experience performing the procedure and check regularly to be sure the lUD's string 'tail' is dangling into the vaginal canal. Between 2 percent and 20 percent of lUDs are expelled in the first year, sometimes without any pain. Any time you can't locate the string or have prolonged cramping, heavy bleeding, pain or fever, you should consult your doctor immediately," warned Deborah Franklin in Health magazine.

There are other reasons why women can't use the IUD even if it is inserted properly. For one, the very act of insertion can be a painful experience. This is true for women who have never had children and wish to use this contraceptive method. This was revealed by Dr. Raphael Jewelewicz, associate clinical professor of psychiatry, in "The Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons Complete Home Medical Guide."

"Sometimes a doctor or family planning specialist will inject a painkiller into the cervix just before insertion. Pain may persist for 24 to 48 hours afterward and there may be a slight blood flow after insertion. The first period following insertion may be particularly heavy," he said.

"Severe menstrual cramps and increased menstrual bleeding may follow the insertion of an IUD. Sometimes these side effects lessen after a month or two. In other cases, severe cramps and prolonged bleeding continue and the physician may advise removal of the IUD," added the editors of Consumer Guide's "Family Health & Medical Guide."

The worst that can happen to IUD users are pelvic infect¬ions that can lead to sterility and ectopic pregnancy. The latter is a life-threatening condition where the fertilized egg implants itself in the Fallopian tube rather than the uterus. Because IUDs may make aggravate sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), women who have an active pelvic infection or a history of pelvic inflammatory disease should avoid this device and switch to other birth control methods instead. (Tomorrow: Natural family planning methods)

Contraception - Problems With IUDs

Contraception - Hate Taking the Pill!

2011-07-30T12:23:00.001-07:00

Contraception - Hate Taking the Pill!

A wee while ago I was at a conference and struck up conversation with a lady sitting next to me and during the various periods of recess we would sit and chat while enjoying a grand cup of tea. Chamomile mango tea is very calming as well as having herbal benefits to boot. Anyway I digress! During our chats I learned she was in a very loving relationship and while not living with her boyfriend they dated three to four times per week. It was now a routine of dinner, sex and then he would leave and she would sit tucked between pillows and wonder why she felt empty.

Then she said quite simply: 'I hate being on the pill'!

The first thoughts that came to mind was there was more to this wee lass then she was being allowed to share in her perceived loving relationship. In reality she needed and desired more intellectual intimacy than physical intimacy but lacked the confidence to discuss this with her beau.

Everything about her life spelled success with a good job, a lovely decorated apartment, a beautiful Alfa Romeo Spider in red she acknowledged with pride and a beaming smile. Money in the bank and investments that were growing nicely so finance was not an issue for her at all. The issue was the feeling of being trapped in a world in which she lacked identity.

I asked her what would she really like to do and she responded within seconds that she would just love to go away somewhere on her own and just enjoy the scenery of wherever she chose to visit. Asking her to be more specific and gentle prompting she said she would love to explore the mountains between Waterford and Tipperary and wander around the hills and valleys dropping into pubs along the way just to talk with friendly locals. She talked of the views she imagined enjoying, the smell of heather and the aromas of nature in all its glory.

As she chatted away the glow in her eyes took on a new life, her skin seemed more colourful and her body was energized. Her gait had more bounce and thus it was no surprise that at the close of the conference she had made a decision to indulge herself with a dream that meant so much to her. She took down the name of a book I recommended and promised to keep in touch. Off she went with promises of bliss and self exploration admitting too to withdraw slowly from her beau until she felt more comfortable knowing in her heart that a discussion with him was definitely in the making.

If there is one book I recommend to every one actually whether male or female it is 'Pulling Your Own Strings' by Wayne Dyer. This book is filled with so much inspirational and insightful knowledge and wisdom which makes it an excellent accompaniment for any person going on a retreat seeking self discovery.

The saddest part to this story is the repetitious content in the conversations practically everywhere about men and their lack of communication skills after sex. The matter of excellent foreplay is a subject for later discussion. However I do urge all readers to seek sex education books like Kama Sutra and there are others too not quite as extensive but equally beneficial.

Until the next time tooraloo and God bless.

Useful tip: essential oils are versatile in nature allowing different experiences per individual usage therefore if for example you seek to regulate the female cycle or perhaps an essential heart tonic explore the virtues of the rose; the rewards will be immeasurable. Love is a battlefield not only the words of a song but reality at best thus it is quite beneficial to all and sundry to seek counsel concerning the edification of ones mind towards natural healing and perfumes.

Contraception - Contraception - Hate Taking the Pill!

Contraceptive Methods for Preventing Pregnancy

2011-07-21T05:58:00.000-07:00

Contraceptive Methods for Preventing Pregnancy

Most of the couples, who tend regular sexual activity used method of contraception. Condoms are the most common methods of contraception which has been used. But the introduction of contraceptives such as hormonal contraceptives, people are much more relaxed. To date, only people who have control over their sexual relationships, but now women can be protected in active use. Young people who are sexually active, aware of the risks of unprotected sex. But even if a condom, which can lead to an accident or emergency contraception, condoms slip. Often this can be in unexpected situations, such as lead, for example, unwanted pregnancies.

Thus, even if condoms are calculated in such situations. To avoid accidents, such as contraception can help women, hormonal contraceptives such as oral contraceptives, contraceptive patches or contraceptive rings. Oral contraceptives are taken every day, and at the same time. These pills are made of synthetic female hormone that protects an unwanted pregnancy together. These oral contraceptives, women should be applied daily to protect unwanted pregnancies. On the basis of these hormones in pills, pills can be used in combination pills and mini pills are split. Combination pills are composed of two synthetic female hormones estrogen and progesterone and is also known as "the pill" known.

Diane is a pill, and proved to be almost 100% effective in preventing pregnancy. It consists of ethinyl estradiol acetate (a synthetic estrogen, 35 micrograms), estradiol and cyproterone (a synthetic progesterone, 2 mg) as active ingredients. Besides the advantage of avoiding pregnancy, but also for the treatment of acne and excessive hair growth, called hirsutism support. The pill is most effective on the first day of menstruation. You have to take the pill 21 days of the menstrual cycle, with a break of 7 days, during which time you can be. Ovranette is another combination pill that can be used, can prevent a pregnancy. A pill containing ethinyl estradiol (synthetic estrogen) and levonorgestrel (synthetic progesterone), the active ingredient.

Rings are a type of hormonal contraception, and who was recently called into being. NuvaRing is a popular contraceptive rings, which are used by women. The ring is placed in the walls of the vagina, which acts as a pill. The only difference is that the ring of ethinyl estradiol (synthetic estrogen) is given, and etenogestrel (synthetic progesterone), as the drug being released into the uterus through the ring. Contraceptive patches are other hormonal contraceptives, the abdomen is used. The patch consists of ethinyl estradiol (synthetic estrogen) and norelgestromin (a synthetic progesterone), the active ingredient. Your body is a continuous supply of these components to prevent pregnancy.

The Wrath Behind Contraception

2011-07-21T05:57:00.000-07:00

The Wrath Behind Contraception

Hormonal contraception may affect their well-being of an incomplete

How you use to assess the combined hormonal contraceptives - which are ideal for "students", with exactly according to the health or at regular intervals to rely on contraception (Plan B or "morning after" pill) for higher class "of their contraceptive behavior may also play swings and roundabouts "Damage Control If you do not? "Those feelings. R 26 250 women aged 18-49 has just been released, and confirmed that it was not with the rule of contraception, the health, education, work and relationships to influence the partner.

The survey was conducted over three months in Spain, where women filled out a questionnaire by ambulatory gynecology and family planning centers of public and private institutions across the country in 2006. Principal Investigator of the study, Dr. Iñaki Lete, Hospital Santiago Apostol, Vitoria, Spain, the collected data on the behavior and psychological consequences of imperfect use of hormonal contraceptives for women using hormonal contraceptives as a combination of three different pills (65%) , Patch (12%) and NuvaRing (R) (23%) (etonogestrel / ethinyl estradiol vaginal ring). They do not meet the requirements (irregular use of hormonal contraceptives) is defined as the failure or delay / application / insertion or removal of a pill or a patch of the tire. Dr. Lethe is convinced that the results will help health care workers "to prevent the advancement of women in compliance with the prescribed treatment."

Studies have shown that:

71% of pill users have 32% of users, and 21.6% of patch users reported that the tires do not use contraceptives properly. Women suffer emotionally when they come too late, shocked "and fear" had been "called"

Between 58.3% and 68.8% were "concerned", and between 16.4% and 22 6% of the "fear of" when "default" if the

10 -20% of women use contraceptives, their current activities and incomplete work affects their relationship with a partner and 3% of lost work or school

40% of women taking the pill and the patch experienced additional stress (for a fee) to perform a pregnancy test, compared with 29% of people use the vaginal

in all groups of about 40% of the women called or visited a doctor in relation to the additional cost of prescription contraceptives

14% of pill users, 11% of the users and 6 changes. 3% of users asked for contraceptive ring, said other charges, the excitement and fear, not to mention the side effects of growth

The study also showed that, although the majority of women using contraceptives in the past and "concerned" or "fear" is sometimes used the same method of contraception. If only to reduce anxiety - if you are problems in maintaining the system with the kind of birth control and sexually active may be time to switch to a different method of birth control or use a method of contraception.

Really not in combination with hormonal therapy, not only increases the risk of pregnancy, but pregnancy can cause panic attacks. " Who wants more money on the table, the research on pregnancy and doctor visits (Plan B), while only to follow or not to have more protection than a few dollars more sexy lingerie and top of the class, he sends a lot of fun!

Imperfect Use of Hormonal Contraceptives Can Affect Your Emotional Well Being

2011-07-21T05:52:00.000-07:00

Imperfect Use of Hormonal Contraceptives Can Affect Your Emotional Well Being

How you use to assess the combined hormonal contraceptives - which are ideal for "students", with exactly according to the health or at regular intervals to rely on contraception (Plan B or "morning after" pill) for higher class "of their contraceptive behavior may also play swings and roundabouts "Damage Control If you do not? "Those feelings. R 26 250 women aged 18-49 has just been released, and confirmed that it was not with the rule of contraception, the health, education, work and relationships to influence the partner.

The survey was conducted over three months in Spain, where women filled out a questionnaire by ambulatory gynecology and family planning centers of public and private institutions across the country in 2006. Principal Investigator of the study, Dr. Iñaki Lete, Hospital Santiago Apostol, Vitoria, Spain, the collected data on the behavior and psychological consequences of imperfect use of hormonal contraceptives for women using hormonal contraceptives as a combination of three different pills (65%) , Patch (12%) and NuvaRing (R) (23%) (etonogestrel / ethinyl estradiol vaginal ring). They do not meet the requirements (irregular use of hormonal contraceptives) is defined as the failure or delay / application / insertion or removal of a pill or a patch of the tire. Dr. Lethe is convinced that the results will help health care workers "to prevent the advancement of women in compliance with the prescribed treatment."

Studies have shown that:

71% of pill users have 32% of users, and 21.6% of patch users reported that the tires do not use contraceptives properly. Women suffer emotionally when they come too late, shocked "and fear" had been "called"

Between 58.3% and 68.8% were "concerned", and between 16.4% and 22 6% of the "fear of" when "default" if the

10 -20% of women use contraceptives, their current activities and incomplete work affects their relationship with a partner and 3% of lost work or school

40% of women taking the pill and the patch experienced additional stress (for a fee) to perform a pregnancy test, compared with 29% of people use the vaginal

in all groups of about 40% of the women called or visited a doctor in relation to the additional cost of prescription contraceptives

14% of pill users, 11% of the users and 6 changes. 3% of users asked for contraceptive ring, said other charges, the excitement and fear, not to mention the side effects of growth

The study also showed that, although the majority of women using contraceptives in the past and "concerned" or "fear" is sometimes used the same method of contraception. If only to reduce anxiety - if you are problems in maintaining the system with the kind of birth control and sexually active may be time to switch to a different method of birth control or use a method of contraception.

Really not in combination with hormonal therapy, not only increases the risk of pregnancy, but pregnancy can cause panic attacks. " Who wants more money on the table, the research on pregnancy and doctor visits (Plan B), while only to follow or not to have more protection than a few dollars more sexy lingerie and top of the class, he sends a lot of fun!

Emergency Contraceptive Options

2011-07-21T05:38:00.000-07:00

Emergency Contraceptive Options

Sometimes accidents happen, condoms break some of the lost or not the pill. Pill, the pill also known as morning and offers women the opportunity to prevent an unwanted pregnancy. This article focuses on secondary prevention, as Levonelle Ellaone and work where they refer to as an alternative to and after the pill available.

Where can I find?

Britain currently has two types of methods of contraception: Levonelle and Ellaone. Ellaone is a relatively new drug, and not readily available. Ellaone I will concentrate for the rest of this article. Use of Levonelle is a well known and readily available:

* Dr.
* Pharmaceutical
* Family counseling
* First Aid

Levonelle is free when used with a doctor's prescription for national health and family planning clinics receive. Some pharmacists may be given contraception without a doctor's prescription, but from § 26 The ambulance should be used only as a last resort.

How does it work?

Progesterone is a hormone that is based Levonelle (female sex hormone). We do not know with certainty the exact mechanism of how it works. In general opinion, prevents ovulation (the release of the egg from the ovary), but may also prevent fertilization (sperm and eggs connections) and possibly plants. Pill does not cause abortion. Technically speaking, an abortion can occur when the fertilized egg is implanted in the uterine lining.

Levonelle is very effective when it has properly been found to reduce the risk of pregnancy by 1%.

How can I?

Levonelle is not for everyone, but it is contraindicated in the following cases:

* Prophyria (a very rare disease)
Severe liver disease
* In previous ectopic pregnancy
* Not suitable for diseases such as Crohn's disease

Time is crucial when it comes to Levonelle comes. Should be taken within 72 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse. Ideally, it should be done within 12 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse. Over the period of unprotected intercourse to reduce significantly the effectiveness of medications:

* Levonelle lasts 0-24 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse - 95% Efficiency
* Levonelle lasts 25-48 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse - 85% Efficiency
* Levonelle lasts 49-72 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse - 58% Efficiency

Levonelle is tolerated by most women, but some women may experience nausea and vomiting. If you vomit within 2-3 hours of taking Levonelle, and then a second dose. More common side effects are headache, dizziness and breast tenderness. Less common side effects are spotting and irregular. After taking Levonelle, if the withdrawal bleeding at the beginning and end, or the time, but it's strong and wrong, ectopic pregnancy (implantation, such as, but not the uterus) pregnancy is excluded and should consult a doctor as soon as possible.

Levonelle options

When the time elapsed since unprotected intercourse more than 72 hours or Levonelle was not acceptable, then contraception to avoid considering alternatives to an unwanted pregnancy. Currently there are two possibilities:

* Ellaone
* Urgent worm

Ellaone (ulipristal)

Ellaone pill that replaced by a new law last year. Small studies of women in Britain, proved to be the United States and Ireland Ellaone to be effective in preventing unwanted pregnancies, even after 72 hours is usually recommended for Levonelle. This means that this drug can be up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex.

Ellaone is a prescription drug. Not available over the counter until she knows more about its safety profile in time.

The origin of the spiral

Risks of intrauterine contraceptive, also known as copper sealing device in the uterus (womb) through the vagina. It has the advantage that it is effective for up to five days after unprotected intercourse, and may continue to use a permanent method of contraception. The disadvantage is that it is installed, it is usually family planning.

Long-term contraception

The study method of contraception, many were pregnant women in the next round, but still have sex without protection. This shows that it is important to consider taking long-term contraception or running.

Discuss after taking Levonelle Ellaone or check with your doctor or family planning continues. Long-term contraceptive methods may include:

* COC
Progesterone only pills *
* The injection of progesterone (3 months)
* Prevention of plants (the skin in the arm and lasts for 3 years)

STDs

It is important to remember that unprotected sex, not only the risk of an unwanted pregnancy but also sexually transmitted infections (STIs) currently on the rise. There is not pregnant, but now, with chronic bacterial infections such as chlamydia, infertility later in life, and cause chronic pelvic inflammatory disease. In addition, unprotected sex with multiple partners, women, many strains of human papilloma virus, which increases the risk of cervical cancer are exposed. Remember to use a condom. Stay tuned and read the article on sexually transmitted diseases .

Contraception Guide

2011-07-21T05:37:00.000-07:00

Contraception Guide

There are many contraceptive methods in a variety of methods to accommodate people at different times in their lives. You can also ask your doctor or family planning For more information on contraceptive methods are available (this applies to boys and girls) and how it would be better to use it.

Most of the contraceptives prescribed (except for condoms, which are available in most stores and can be laid on a bench). Not all contraceptive methods available to local physicians, but must be in a position to the nearest clinic or family planning contraceptive methods do not target.

You can buy condoms and spermicides, male or female without looking, the doctor or clinic. Condoms can in most stores (supermarkets, Boots and Superdrug to sell more), and condom vending machines in some places (not recommended). You can also use the film and the pharmacy, if you know the size.

When ordering, the prevention, taking into consideration the possible side effects that each transport. Ask your doctor or family planning, if you need help.

Prevention

No contraceptive method is 100% effective and condoms protect against sexually transmitted diseases and sexually transmitted diseases. How effective contraceptive method depends on accurate and consistent methodology.

If you are not using contraception is a 80-90% chance of getting pregnant.

Contraceptive methods available in two main groups;

* Do not miss: not to take over the memory or to use contraception rely. These are long-acting methods.

* User: Methods and think about regularly or each sex. To be effective, these methods must be used according to instructions.

Some facts about pregnancy

A woman can become pregnant;

* When you first is sex.

* If you have an orgasm.

* If a person withdraws from the vagina before he comes.

* If you have sex when his life.

* Be a full lactation.

* If the showers (ejaculate in the vagina). It may harm women.

* Regardless of the role of a gay couple

More advice about contraception

Contraception and menopause

Method of contraception, menopause. Methods of contraception must be used until the woman does not have the time or bleeding in two years, when less than 50 years and 1 year, when more than 50 years.

Contraceptives and breast-feeding

Breastfeeding can act a very effective method of contraception if they exclusively breastfed babies less than six months. This means that you need;

* Breastfeeding at regular intervals, day and night.

* Keep the child other foods, beverages, do so not breastfeed is lost.

* No time.

Morning after pill

If you have sex without contraception, or think the method can not be, there are two ways you can use the threat.

* The emergency hormonal pill - more than three days (72 hours) after sex. They are effective once they get it.

* IUD - must be installed no more than 5 days after sex, or up to five days after releasing the first egg (ovulation) are.

STDs

Most contraceptives do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

Male and female condoms, when used consistently and correctly, protect against sexually transmitted diseases. Diaphragms and caps may also protect against some sexually transmitted diseases. Condoms with nonoxynol 9 (lubricated with spermicide) no protection to protect against HIV .

Birth Control And Contraception Methods

2011-07-21T05:36:00.000-07:00

Birth Control And Contraception Methods

Currently used for contraception, and the voluntary control of fertility is of major importance for society. From a global perspective, we are all with rapid population growth crisis began to threaten the livelihood of people confront. Scientific knowledge, no contraception is double the world's population under 40 (if you continue to grow at current rates - but, unfortunately, is a progressive). Therefore, the world's population is a serious danger to humans in the near future is suffering!

Therefore today is that each partner to take responsibility for, and carefully planning the family!
One or both parties have an effective method of contraception to avoid pregnancy in order to prevent a temporary or permanent sterilization pregnancy. Termination of pregnancy (abortion) can be corrected, be to prevent. A couple decided to begin to prevent or stop an unwanted pregnancy can affect a professional consultant, prenatal diagnosis and genetic counseling.

Used methods of contraception in the United States and Western Europe are:
Contraceptive methods

diaphragms and cervical
Condoms
intrauterine device (IUD)
Hormonal contraceptives and the chemical
Oral contraceptives or steroids
Subcutaneous implants, or prevent
Contraceptive or spermicide (which kills sperm contraceptives)
Natural methods of contraception
withdrawal (coitus interruptus)
Periodic Abstinence or
Surgical contraception
Female surgical sterilization or
male surgical sterilization or

Although the choice of contraceptive methods, advantages and disadvantages of the various prevention techniques that must be explained by the experts, allowing women to choose the most appropriate form of contraception for you and your partner. Many factors affect the number of contraceptive failure, such as:

or age
The level of training or
The degree of motivation
or under the supervision of professional

They are inversely proportional to failed contraception.

Are commonly used contraceptives during sexual intercourse (eg film, condoms, foams, sponges, withdrawal) are more efficient in both theory and practice.

The overall effectiveness of contraceptives, is sexually explicit (eg, birth control pills, spirals), as the patient is easier to participate. Within a few years, the percentage of pregnancies is in use.

Guide the Contraceptive Coil Work?

2011-07-19T05:06:00.000-07:00

Guide the Contraceptive Coil Work?

Prevention

Prevention twist is added to the T-shaped uterus to prevent pregnancy. Progesterone is a hormone that thickens the uterus itself holds. Worm, a synthetic version of progesterone called levonorgestrel release to prevent pregnancy.

Helix is a seven-day on the first day of the menstrual cycle, and is effective immediately. However, the coil can cause pain, irregular bleeding, nausea and takes several months.

Performance

In 2004, the study by the National Institutes of Health, the effects of Mirena coil contraceptive methods, the trademark use in 75 women in England has been examined. Researchers say the Mirena coil is a highly effective form of contraception, and reduce heavy menstrual bleeding.

Risks and Complications

Levonorgestrel is used in an emergency contraceptive. Both the coil and the pill is only available on prescription from your doctor.

If you use the worm, the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Women who have irregular forms in the womb or in the case of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), try to prevent the coil. There is a danger that both the coil of the uterus or uterine perforation. This may cause damage to internal organs, and surgery is needed to remove it.

The liners do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV. It is recommended that both parties to prevent the first experiment, the coil for the primary prevention .

Oral Contraceptives and Weight Gain - What is the Truth?

2011-07-19T05:04:00.000-07:00

Oral Contraceptives and Weight Gain - What is the Truth?

The first oral contraceptive on the market are much higher doses of hormones than today's, and weight gain, and the arrest of two "related" side effects ", which seems to be the same. On average, five pounds of weight gain is estimated that as a result of oral contraceptives. Research shows that the birth of time, word of mouth is usually not cause weight gain.

Before you jump up and down with the word "I, I have two pounds, the fact is that women are sick pills just lost the same weight as the others (not bad) was the winner. But there are some women who have certain factors in the body that is responsible for a very low dose pills today, and this may explain the weight gain during the COC.

One of the ingredients in the pill has estrogen, which in high doses known to cause weight gain, fluid retention. Fluid retention in turn leads to more salt (sodium) retention. Low-dose pills today, this problem has been greatly reduced.

They increase the appetite of oral contraceptives?

What do I do if my insulin levels - drive as "insulin resistance" is known to increase insulin response to carbohydrate and energy to all the fat cells and was initially blocked. Weight loss, diet, not all women are "insulin resistance, increase not all women in weight, even if the COC. This" room "by a doctor to be diagnosed, and if you do not own the level of insulin in the blood of chronically higher in the fat cells give up energy to lose weight.

Birth control pills can affect the metabolism, that is?

Metabolic rate or metabolism is the rate at which you burn your body (food), which have been placed on "Run", and gives you energy - how gas in your car. Not everyone has a "metabolic" or "metabolism" - you are heavier, higher metabolism.

Many women complain of weight gain after pill. Have you noticed that when they do not have pills, weight more in the second half of the menstrual cycle? This is completely normal and is due to changes in hormone levels.

Other medications may also cause weight gain, as can be pills for depression, only to blame the pills. An honest depiction of a doctor at the weight gain as a side effect of oral contraceptives, and can change the type of pill, the fear of this "image" sensitive.

Birth control pills are less effective in overweight and obese studies have shown that women, body mass index (BMI) 25 to 29.9 is the pill have a higher risk of pregnancy by 60% by weight women (BMI 18.5 24.9 have ). Figure rises to 70% if you have a body mass index above 30 Why? The reason for this is still open, and can have many causes, but it is possible that the oral contraceptive hormones are fat soluble, the fat in overweight people is dissolved, rather than into the bloodstream.

More overweight people in the metabolism and reduces the effect of "continuous" drug.

Liver helps the metabolism of hormones, birth control pills. If you are overweight, enzymes in the liver that controls the metabolism to increase, or "burning" hormones, contraceptives are much faster than normal. Birth control pills today contain much lower doses of hormones, so if you are overweight, could soon be the "return" to be, so that their effect may be short on the body, and thus increase the risk of pregnancy .

Different Forms of Contraceptives

2011-07-18T01:08:00.000-07:00

Different Forms of Contraceptives

Birth control, also known as contraception, refers to the prevention of unwanted pregnancies. It is an integral part of family planning for married couples and degree of active safety for single women. Prevention is usually an important factor in women after their participation in unprotected sex due to failure of contraception, such as sulfur, safety or other reasons.

To use the current range of contraceptive methods of physical barriers, such as a condom or a worm (worm) to prevent. Of these methods, hormonal contraceptives have the trust of millions of women worldwide for its safety and reliability. More than 25 hormonal pills are available in the UK market, with the help of many women make the right decisions at the right time.

Birth control pills as normal and emergency

Hormonal drugs are available in two ways: it produces the pill and the pill (also called the morning pill). Regular pills are made in the rule that produces a combination of synthetic versions of estrogen and progesterone, two hormones the body naturally. However, some of the pills contain only one hormone, but concludes that they are regularly taken to prevent pregnancy. Cerazette (Desogestrel) is a popular medicine that belongs to this group.

Morning after pill, as the term suggests, should only be used if there is an urgent need for prevention. Sometimes a dose of regular birth control is to remain closed for a few days of both sexes over the weekend near the pharmacy. In such a situation, emergency contraception (EC) pills probably the last chance to prevent a pregnancy. These pills are also called "mini-pills", because a small part. The most popular pill in this category is Levonelle Ellaone 30, 1500.

The correct choice of contraceptive method

Allowed each woman is different, so you meet women not be to another. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of both methods of contraception prior to decision making.

Use

Microgynon contraceptive pill, the Cilest, Yasmin and Cerazette is almost 100% effective in preventing pregnancy. Most of the standard contraceptives are intended for use in the long run and may be useful for women who have just suffered a miscarriage. Some tablets may also be adapted to relieve mood disorders, many women complain that the use of contraceptives.

Some women have side-effects of estrogen. Progesterone only pill can be very useful in emergency situations. Another advantage of preventing an immediate work to prevent ovulation. But you should consult a doctor with this method of contraception, to consult the best fits their needs for prevention.

Disadvantages

Although the efficacy and safety of two hormonal contraceptives may cause serious side effects such as tenderness, chest, nausea, headaches and weight gain. The mini-pill, but you can sample and irregular, soon after the shot. Most of hormonal contraceptives is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women.

What method of birth control make you a recipe. You can use a lot of trouble and anxiety .

The Comparison of Ten Postpartum Contraception Methods

2011-07-16T01:08:00.001-07:00

The Comparison of Ten Postpartum Contraception Methods

If you breastfeed after birth, about four weeks, women who have the possibility of a new pregnancy. If breastfeeding, recovery will be delayed menstruation, ovulation is not to stop. Therefore, breastfeeding may not be used for contraception after birth.

In addition, some of you had contraception before the birth can not be right for you. So how to choose a method of contraception after the birth? For more information you can best.

Surgery

The first woman with a tubal ligation
Return rate - 99.9%

Advantages: The surgical removal of the ovaries and ligation, the egg and sperm cells is not fair. The procedure can be performed the next day after birth. If the mother does lead to caesarean sections can be used simultaneously.

Want to tubal ligation is a permanent method of contraception when they order their birth mother is in this way: cons.

Another vasectomy
Return rate - 99.9%

Advantages: spermaduct The cutting part of the core penis. For those couples who are able to choose sterilization. This causes less trauma with a tubal ligation, which requires only local anesthesia and can be done outpatient at all. At the same time, less risk of complications.
Disadvantages: It is difficult to restore fertility. It usually takes six weeks after the surgery contraception if sexual life is at this time, it is necessary to adopt other methods of contraception.

Hormonal Methods

Third Pill
Rate of return, because most of the state 99.5% - the efficient use of up to 95%

Advantages: Birth control pills are a popular method of contraception for women in western countries. Not just a method to restore fertility, is also stable. In addition, it can help the discomfort caused by massive blood loss during menstruation and menstrual symptoms. Research shows that the pill, the risk of ovarian cancer.

Disadvantages: You have to take one pill per day. He can not play an important role in preventing sexually transmitted diseases and AIDS. And for those who often smoking, high blood pressure or heart failure, you use this method because the pills that increase blood clotting, heart attack risk. Prevented by breast-feeding women can take oral contraceptives, that the secretion of milk.

Fourth 7% - the actual use of the State 98.7%

Advantages: This method requires only four years after the injection of medroxyprogesterone and vinegar can cause to support the effects of contraception. Injection time vinegar producers can contraceptive medroxyprogesterone in the weeks 12-14 will receive.

Disadvantages: The injection should be administered by professionals. To restore fertility, the injection should be exposed to nine months before the application. Recent studies show that trade can lead to osteoporosis in the totals. This method can not prevent sexually transmitted diseases or, menstrual disorders, weight gain, dizziness and headache at the same time lead.

Non-hormonal methods of contraception

The sixth male condoms
Efficiency - better use of up to 97% - 86% of the actual use of state

Pros: male condoms can be purchased without prescription drugs. Sex Life in Men condom can prevent the access of bacteria into the vagina, can also prevent sexually transmitted diseases.

Cons: the condom may slip or break, condoms with spermicide may also in the vagina. To participate in the prevention, as long as people are willing to spend .

Which is the Best Contraceptive Method

2011-07-12T09:56:00.000-07:00

Which is the Best Contraceptive Method

There are many methods of contraception, but the method is not suitable for all for all. Do you want to know whether they are monogamous. Determine method of contraception that suits your lifestyle. The best method of birth control, of course, is his, but this is not the preferred method for most.

The condom is the best contraception to pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases to prevent. Only a small part of the error reports. Remember, latex-type, like the skin of the animal use is not sufficiently effective. Condoms are also women. Condoms are actually very good if you do not mind the feeling that brings a condom during sex or multiple partners. Another method is the diaphragm, which is a business and a flexible ring is placed behind the pubic bone of women. Ring, to help the vaginal wall.

This is not a spermicide, which can be used without a condom or diaphragm. This is the best ", to use a condom if you choose this method of contraception during sex the person. Spermicides kill sperm to prevent pregnancy.

There are pills that can be a recipe for the city of birth, or more well-known brands. Sometimes makes a pill that people very sick. It is difficult for people to remember about the pill. They Northern pill lining of the uterus, and changes in the prevention of pregnancy. Pill does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases to protect, so it must use the pill if you are monogamous relationship.

Morning after pill, as well as emergency pill Plan B. This can prevent up to 72 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse, pregnancy called known. And unlike pill. The tablets only in sperm T 'can be easily implemented. This method does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases and to protect. This method is really sick, and hormones. This method allows a very hormonal. Avoid this method if possible.

This coil, which in the uterus. You can also prevent pregnancy. There are patches can also be used to prevent pregnancy. You can receive the vaccine. All these methods really do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

It is a "pull" method of ejaculation outside the body. It can be difficult because you have not noticed much before ejaculation, but can lead to pregnancy. To not protect against sexually transmitted diseases, and it is hard to do.

You know when you ovulate and sex on days that are not fertile. It's not a good idea. Sometimes there are error calculation. This method has the right to protection against sexually transmitted diseases. Women to abortion as a means of contraception. Of course it is not the best option, but also the form of contraception. This can be achieved by a method or a tablet.

Make sure they are confirmed by tests in your life and your decisions with your partner of choice of contraceptive method. Make sure, well protected against pregnancy. If you are having sex with someone to have sex with others, you should use a condom. You know now what the best methods of contraception? The answer is right for you is the best .