Informative Essay On Birth Control
Birth control, also known as contraception, is intended to prevent pregnancy. It has been around for thousands of years now, but safe and more effective methods were developed in the 20th century. There are 61 million women in the United States that use contraception during the childbearing years (15-44). [1] Therefore, there are many different methods to fit the needs of the many different types of women in the world. The choice of birth control that a woman chooses depends on several different factors. Health, sexual activity, sexual partners, and the desire to have children in the future are four main factors in choosing what is right. [2] A doctor or even at-home research can assist in deciding which form is the best. There are about 16
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different methods of contraception. [1] I will present information on birth control pills, Implanon, Depo-Provera, and an IUD. I argue that the birth control pills are the healthiest form of birth control that a woman can take, based on how they work in the body, the advantages, and disadvantages. Birth Control is a very common area of discussion in today’s society. Many women, including myself, use it for various reasons, such as, to reduce menstrual cycle pain, and to prevent the risks of getting pregnant before one is ready. This topic is important because there is some controversy as to whether or not it is healthy for the woman’s body, mentally and physically. Research needs to be done because the woman’s body and how it develops is vital. All contraceptives all contain a small amount of manufactured estrogen and progestin hormones. These hormones work to impede the body's natural cyclical hormones and prevent pregnancy. (Planned Parenthood, n.d.) Pregnancy is prevented by a numerous amount of factors. The hormonal contraceptive usually stops the body from ovulating. Therefore, this keeps the eggs from leaving the ovaries. If there is no egg to join with a male’s sperm, pregnancy cannot happen. Contraceptives also thicken the cervical mucus to make it tough for the sperm to go through the cervix and fertilize an egg. (Planned Parenthood, n.d.) It can also prevent pregnancy by changing the lining of the womb so the fertilized egg will not be implanted [3]. First, I will talk about Birth Control Pills. They are a type of medication that women can take daily to prevent pregnancy. Sometimes, they are called "the pill" or "oral contraceptive pills." Adolescents and young women are prescribed birth control pills for absent or irregular menstrual periods. They are also prescribed for menstrual cramps, premenstrual syndrome, acne, endometriosis, and for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). [4] Those diagnosed with PCOS are often are prescribed birth control pills to reduce their hormone levels and to regulate menstrual cycles. [4] Pills can come in 28-day or 21-day packs; these are called combination pills. Both types have 21 "active" pills that contain hormones. The last seven pills in 28-day packs of combination pills are called placebo, or sugar pills. They do not contain hormones, but they still protect against pregnancy during this time, if pills have been taken properly. In 21-day packs, one pill is taken daily for three consecutive weeks. No pills are taken for the fourth week, and then a new pack of pills is started. Oral contraceptives can be purchased, with a prescription, at a drug store or clinic. The price ranges from $0-$50 per month. [5] There are many benefits to taking birth control pills.
Taking the pill is convenient, safe, and simple. It does not interfere with having sex. Progestin-only and combination pills make periods lighter, reduce menstrual cramps, and offer some protection against pelvic inflammatory disease.[5] Leaving pelvic inflammatory untreated often leads to infertility. Combination pills can also be used to determine when a menstrual period will come. Birth control pills are good for people who are anemic (having a lower number of red blood cells, that carry oxygen to from the lungs to the tissues), because there is less bleeding when taking them.[5] They also lower the risk of getting endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer, and ovarian cysts. [5,17] The disadvantages of taking birth control are present, as well. Some of the most common side effects are bleeding between periods, nausea and vomiting, and breast tenderness. [6] The hormones in the pill can adjust a woman's sexual desire. She must constantly have to deal with the frustration of remembering to take the medication every day, at the same time. The progestin in some brands of pills is associated to a higher risk for blood clots than other brands. Although this is rare, they can also raise levels of potassium in the blood, causing heart and health malfunctions.
[6] Next, I will give background information on the characteristics of the birth control shot: Depo-Provera. Depo-Provera is an injection of a hormone that prevents pregnancy. It is given by a specialized doctor in the buttocks or the arm. [7] Each shot works for 12 to 14 weeks , but it is important to get the injection once every 12 weeks to insure full protection. [7] An exam is needed before the first injection. With an exam, prices range from $0 can $250. Each visit after the initial one range from $0 to $150. [7] Just like any other form of birth control, there are benefits. The Depo- shot provides effective, long lasting protection. There is no daily alarm to be set, or any frustration in remembering to take it. The shot is a very private method, because there is no packaging or other evidence that will allow people to know that contraception is being used. It does not contain estrogen, therefore it is an excellent choice for women who are breastfeeding a young child. [7] Also, this is good for those who may be allergic to estrogen. The Depo-Provera shot can help lower the risk of developing cancer in the lining of the uterus. If someone has sickle cell disease, birth control can be described to lower the number of sickle cell crises. [8] Some women experience undesirable effects while using the Depo-Provera shot, while others are completely fine. Irregular bleeding is the most common disadvantage; this usually prominent during the initial 6 to 12 months of use. [7] The shot can change a woman's appetite, which leads to weight gain. According to research done by the Journal of Women’s health, many women experience horrible headaches and nausea after the shot is injected [10]. This is because the hormone is injected directly into the body. If side effects are experienced, since this is a shot, there is no way to stop them. They may continue until the shot subsides, in 14 weeks. [8] Planned Parenthood states that, due to the birth control being long lasting, it can take a while to get pregnant, even after the shot wears off. [7] Now, I will discuss the birth control implant, Implanon. It is a very thin, flexible plastic, about the size of a matchstick. It is inserted under the skin of the upper arm, by a doctor, and protects from pregnancy for up to three years. The medicine is contained in the small rod, and releases slowly into the body.
Effectiveness and the advantages is key when choosing a form of birth control. According to Planned Parenthood, "less than 1 out of 100 women a year will become pregnant using the implant."[11] Implanon can be used while breastfeeding, and it gives a long lasting protection without sterilization. The implant can be removed at anytime, and the ability to become pregnant returns quickly. [11] Like any other method of birth control, there are disadvantages. The implant cannot be used by women who have breast cancer. Also, there can be pain at the insertion spot on the arm, and soreness in breast can happen. [12] Drugs.com shared that, discoloring, scarring, or even an infection of the skin can take place if one is allergic. [13] Also, certain medicine and supplements can lower the effectiveness of the implant, so one must be cautious as to what they are taking. Using Implanon can increase risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart attack. [11] It is healthier to have if there is absolutely no history of health problems. The implant can cause weight gain, and being overweight can cause the implant to not be as effective. [11] Finally, I will explain break down the traits of the Intrauterine Device (IUD). The IUD is a “T-shaped” device that is inserted into a woman’s uterus to prevent pregnancy. There are two different kinds used in the United States: Paragard and Skyla/Mirena/Liletta. However, they must both be inserted by a doctor. ParaGard contains copper and can be effective for up to 12 years. [14] The hormonal IUD, Skyla and Mirena, release progestin into the body. Mirena can last for five years, while Skyla can only be effective for three. [14] Both versions of the IUD work by affecting the way the male sperm moves in the woman’s body. They alter the sperm so they can not fertilize an egg. If sperm can not fertilize an egg, pregnancy can not happen. In some cases, hormonal IUDs may prevent the egg from even leaving the ovary [14]. This is the most inexpensive form of long term birth control. [10] The IUD is paid for upfront, so there are no constant payments. An exam is needed before the insertion. In total, the exam, the IUD, the insertion, and the follow-up visits can range anywhere from $0 to $1000 [14]. It depends on the health care provider and the type that is chosen. Hormonal IUDs typically cost more than Paragard. There are many benefits in having the Intrauterine Device. The Paragard IUD does not change a woman’s hormone levels; so many women believe it improves their sex life. [10] For the hormonal IUDs, on average, the menstrual flow is lowered by 90 percent. [14] IUDs can be used during breastfeeding, and the ability to become pregnant comes quickly after the IUD is removed. [14] The IUD does not have to stay in for the full term of effectiveness; it can be removed when the woman desires.
It is important to know the side effects of the intrauterine device. Moderate pain when the IUD is inserted is common. While using, cramping and backaches can be present within the first few days. [14] Spotting and irregular within the first 6 months of using the hormonal version is not rare.[15] With Paragard, many women experience heavier periods and worse menstrual cramps throughout their entire use of the IUD. [14] For women who are more active, or those who have never gave birth, the IUD can sometimes slip out of the uterus. [14] It can come out just a bit, or even all the way.
With the information that I researched and presented, birth control pills are the healthiest form of contraception. The pill has been the most commonly used method since 1982. [2] It is no secret that birth control can prevent a woman from getting pregnant. However, the pills can have many other benefits, too. One survey conducted by WebMD, found that more than half of the women who use birth control pills use it for reasons other than controlling unwanted pregnancy. [3]
Oral Contraceptives can regulate the menstrual period. With traditional pills, three weeks of hormonal active pills are taken, and then follows a week of inactive pills. [16] A period will come during the inactive pills, so women will always know when their period is coming. With extended-cycle pills, active pills are taken for a longer amount of time. Three months of active pills are taken, followed by a break for a period. [16] Doing this will result in three to four periods per year. Compared to other birth control methods, pills are best at regulating periods. Doctors prescribe them to those who are experiencing irregular bleeding. The Depo-Provera shot, implant, and IUD can cause irregular bleeding, and sometimes no periods at all. [7]
Menorrhagia is the scientific term for heavy menstrual bleeding. 10% of reproductive-aged women are effected by it. The pills can lower blood loss, by thinning the lining of the uterus. This helps those who are suffering from menorrhagia. Menorrhagia can lead to serious cases of anemia. [16]
Birth control pills typically make women more comfortable. They keep the ovaries from releasing eggs. “It essentially tricks your body into thinking you’re pregnant,” says professor Michael Thomas, MD. [16] The chemicals produced from the uterus is reduced, and this triggers painful cramping. Dysmenorrhea, menstrual cramps, effects up to 90% off women who are still in the reproductive stages of life. Likewise with menstrual migraines, 60% of women associate them with the timing of their menstrual cycle. [16] Taking the pills can control the hormonal imbalances that many women face. This will then ease the pain that women experience during this time.
Oral Contraceptives can also help with acne. Males produce sex hormones, and women produce those same male sex hormones, but just in much smaller amounts. Sex hormones in women can result in acne and excessive hair growth. [16] The pills can slow the development of the male hormone. This then results in less unwantedly body hair and fewer breakouts.
Cancer is a very serious disease that many people are effected by. Birth control pills can lower the risk of some cancers in women. “Women that have taken the pill for 5 years or longer have a 50% reduction in the risk of developing ovarian cancer,” says gynecologic cancer surgeon Ginger Gardner, MD. [16] A discovery off 36 studies concluded that for every 5 years a woman takes the pills, her risk of developing endometrial cancer is reduced by nearly 25%. The advantages of the pills were still present more than 30 years after they were stopped. [16]
Even though there are numerous advantages to taking birth control pills. The disadvantages cannot be overlooked. Current, or even recent, use of birth control pills can slighty increase the risk of developing breast cancer. Studies have shown that women who are currently taking birth control pills have a 20 to 30 percent higher chance of growing breast cancer tumors, compared to those who have never used the pill. [18] The risk for breast cancer in young women is very low, and young women are the leading users of the pills. Therefore, the slight increase is still very slim. Once a woman is done taking the pills, the risk will decrease over the course of 10 years. [18]
Nonetheless, I present that my findings lead to birth control pills being the healthiest for the woman’s body. Compared to the other forms of contraception, the pills have the most benefits and the least disadvantages. They are even prescribed by doctors, to women who are not sexually active. They benefit so much more than unwanted pregnancies and there are many different brands that a woman can choose from. Dosage of the pills can be altered as well as the ingredients in the pill. There is a right one for everyone.
Birth control is an extremely controversial topic, and there are many different opinions on each method. In order to insure the safety of the women in the world, the research must be ongoing. This is an imperative topic and determining which form is healthiest will support wellbeing. My claim is that oral contraceptives are the healthiest method. Information on the pros, cons, and how they work in the body support this.
different methods of contraception. [1] I will present information on birth control pills, Implanon, Depo-Provera, and an IUD. I argue that the birth control pills are the healthiest form of birth control that a woman can take, based on how they work in the body, the advantages, and disadvantages. Birth Control is a very common area of discussion in today’s society. Many women, including myself, use it for various reasons, such as, to reduce menstrual cycle pain, and to prevent the risks of getting pregnant before one is ready. This topic is important because there is some controversy as to whether or not it is healthy for the woman’s body, mentally and physically. Research needs to be done because the woman’s body and how it develops is vital. All contraceptives all contain a small amount of manufactured estrogen and progestin hormones. These hormones work to impede the body's natural cyclical hormones and prevent pregnancy. (Planned Parenthood, n.d.) Pregnancy is prevented by a numerous amount of factors. The hormonal contraceptive usually stops the body from ovulating. Therefore, this keeps the eggs from leaving the ovaries. If there is no egg to join with a male’s sperm, pregnancy cannot happen. Contraceptives also thicken the cervical mucus to make it tough for the sperm to go through the cervix and fertilize an egg. (Planned Parenthood, n.d.) It can also prevent pregnancy by changing the lining of the womb so the fertilized egg will not be implanted [3]. First, I will talk about Birth Control Pills. They are a type of medication that women can take daily to prevent pregnancy. Sometimes, they are called "the pill" or "oral contraceptive pills." Adolescents and young women are prescribed birth control pills for absent or irregular menstrual periods. They are also prescribed for menstrual cramps, premenstrual syndrome, acne, endometriosis, and for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). [4] Those diagnosed with PCOS are often are prescribed birth control pills to reduce their hormone levels and to regulate menstrual cycles. [4] Pills can come in 28-day or 21-day packs; these are called combination pills. Both types have 21 "active" pills that contain hormones. The last seven pills in 28-day packs of combination pills are called placebo, or sugar pills. They do not contain hormones, but they still protect against pregnancy during this time, if pills have been taken properly. In 21-day packs, one pill is taken daily for three consecutive weeks. No pills are taken for the fourth week, and then a new pack of pills is started. Oral contraceptives can be purchased, with a prescription, at a drug store or clinic. The price ranges from $0-$50 per month. [5] There are many benefits to taking birth control pills.
Taking the pill is convenient, safe, and simple. It does not interfere with having sex. Progestin-only and combination pills make periods lighter, reduce menstrual cramps, and offer some protection against pelvic inflammatory disease.[5] Leaving pelvic inflammatory untreated often leads to infertility. Combination pills can also be used to determine when a menstrual period will come. Birth control pills are good for people who are anemic (having a lower number of red blood cells, that carry oxygen to from the lungs to the tissues), because there is less bleeding when taking them.[5] They also lower the risk of getting endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer, and ovarian cysts. [5,17] The disadvantages of taking birth control are present, as well. Some of the most common side effects are bleeding between periods, nausea and vomiting, and breast tenderness. [6] The hormones in the pill can adjust a woman's sexual desire. She must constantly have to deal with the frustration of remembering to take the medication every day, at the same time. The progestin in some brands of pills is associated to a higher risk for blood clots than other brands. Although this is rare, they can also raise levels of potassium in the blood, causing heart and health malfunctions.
[6] Next, I will give background information on the characteristics of the birth control shot: Depo-Provera. Depo-Provera is an injection of a hormone that prevents pregnancy. It is given by a specialized doctor in the buttocks or the arm. [7] Each shot works for 12 to 14 weeks , but it is important to get the injection once every 12 weeks to insure full protection. [7] An exam is needed before the first injection. With an exam, prices range from $0 can $250. Each visit after the initial one range from $0 to $150. [7] Just like any other form of birth control, there are benefits. The Depo- shot provides effective, long lasting protection. There is no daily alarm to be set, or any frustration in remembering to take it. The shot is a very private method, because there is no packaging or other evidence that will allow people to know that contraception is being used. It does not contain estrogen, therefore it is an excellent choice for women who are breastfeeding a young child. [7] Also, this is good for those who may be allergic to estrogen. The Depo-Provera shot can help lower the risk of developing cancer in the lining of the uterus. If someone has sickle cell disease, birth control can be described to lower the number of sickle cell crises. [8] Some women experience undesirable effects while using the Depo-Provera shot, while others are completely fine. Irregular bleeding is the most common disadvantage; this usually prominent during the initial 6 to 12 months of use. [7] The shot can change a woman's appetite, which leads to weight gain. According to research done by the Journal of Women’s health, many women experience horrible headaches and nausea after the shot is injected [10]. This is because the hormone is injected directly into the body. If side effects are experienced, since this is a shot, there is no way to stop them. They may continue until the shot subsides, in 14 weeks. [8] Planned Parenthood states that, due to the birth control being long lasting, it can take a while to get pregnant, even after the shot wears off. [7] Now, I will discuss the birth control implant, Implanon. It is a very thin, flexible plastic, about the size of a matchstick. It is inserted under the skin of the upper arm, by a doctor, and protects from pregnancy for up to three years. The medicine is contained in the small rod, and releases slowly into the body.
Effectiveness and the advantages is key when choosing a form of birth control. According to Planned Parenthood, "less than 1 out of 100 women a year will become pregnant using the implant."[11] Implanon can be used while breastfeeding, and it gives a long lasting protection without sterilization. The implant can be removed at anytime, and the ability to become pregnant returns quickly. [11] Like any other method of birth control, there are disadvantages. The implant cannot be used by women who have breast cancer. Also, there can be pain at the insertion spot on the arm, and soreness in breast can happen. [12] Drugs.com shared that, discoloring, scarring, or even an infection of the skin can take place if one is allergic. [13] Also, certain medicine and supplements can lower the effectiveness of the implant, so one must be cautious as to what they are taking. Using Implanon can increase risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart attack. [11] It is healthier to have if there is absolutely no history of health problems. The implant can cause weight gain, and being overweight can cause the implant to not be as effective. [11] Finally, I will explain break down the traits of the Intrauterine Device (IUD). The IUD is a “T-shaped” device that is inserted into a woman’s uterus to prevent pregnancy. There are two different kinds used in the United States: Paragard and Skyla/Mirena/Liletta. However, they must both be inserted by a doctor. ParaGard contains copper and can be effective for up to 12 years. [14] The hormonal IUD, Skyla and Mirena, release progestin into the body. Mirena can last for five years, while Skyla can only be effective for three. [14] Both versions of the IUD work by affecting the way the male sperm moves in the woman’s body. They alter the sperm so they can not fertilize an egg. If sperm can not fertilize an egg, pregnancy can not happen. In some cases, hormonal IUDs may prevent the egg from even leaving the ovary [14]. This is the most inexpensive form of long term birth control. [10] The IUD is paid for upfront, so there are no constant payments. An exam is needed before the insertion. In total, the exam, the IUD, the insertion, and the follow-up visits can range anywhere from $0 to $1000 [14]. It depends on the health care provider and the type that is chosen. Hormonal IUDs typically cost more than Paragard. There are many benefits in having the Intrauterine Device. The Paragard IUD does not change a woman’s hormone levels; so many women believe it improves their sex life. [10] For the hormonal IUDs, on average, the menstrual flow is lowered by 90 percent. [14] IUDs can be used during breastfeeding, and the ability to become pregnant comes quickly after the IUD is removed. [14] The IUD does not have to stay in for the full term of effectiveness; it can be removed when the woman desires.
It is important to know the side effects of the intrauterine device. Moderate pain when the IUD is inserted is common. While using, cramping and backaches can be present within the first few days. [14] Spotting and irregular within the first 6 months of using the hormonal version is not rare.[15] With Paragard, many women experience heavier periods and worse menstrual cramps throughout their entire use of the IUD. [14] For women who are more active, or those who have never gave birth, the IUD can sometimes slip out of the uterus. [14] It can come out just a bit, or even all the way.
With the information that I researched and presented, birth control pills are the healthiest form of contraception. The pill has been the most commonly used method since 1982. [2] It is no secret that birth control can prevent a woman from getting pregnant. However, the pills can have many other benefits, too. One survey conducted by WebMD, found that more than half of the women who use birth control pills use it for reasons other than controlling unwanted pregnancy. [3]
Oral Contraceptives can regulate the menstrual period. With traditional pills, three weeks of hormonal active pills are taken, and then follows a week of inactive pills. [16] A period will come during the inactive pills, so women will always know when their period is coming. With extended-cycle pills, active pills are taken for a longer amount of time. Three months of active pills are taken, followed by a break for a period. [16] Doing this will result in three to four periods per year. Compared to other birth control methods, pills are best at regulating periods. Doctors prescribe them to those who are experiencing irregular bleeding. The Depo-Provera shot, implant, and IUD can cause irregular bleeding, and sometimes no periods at all. [7]
Menorrhagia is the scientific term for heavy menstrual bleeding. 10% of reproductive-aged women are effected by it. The pills can lower blood loss, by thinning the lining of the uterus. This helps those who are suffering from menorrhagia. Menorrhagia can lead to serious cases of anemia. [16]
Birth control pills typically make women more comfortable. They keep the ovaries from releasing eggs. “It essentially tricks your body into thinking you’re pregnant,” says professor Michael Thomas, MD. [16] The chemicals produced from the uterus is reduced, and this triggers painful cramping. Dysmenorrhea, menstrual cramps, effects up to 90% off women who are still in the reproductive stages of life. Likewise with menstrual migraines, 60% of women associate them with the timing of their menstrual cycle. [16] Taking the pills can control the hormonal imbalances that many women face. This will then ease the pain that women experience during this time.
Oral Contraceptives can also help with acne. Males produce sex hormones, and women produce those same male sex hormones, but just in much smaller amounts. Sex hormones in women can result in acne and excessive hair growth. [16] The pills can slow the development of the male hormone. This then results in less unwantedly body hair and fewer breakouts.
Cancer is a very serious disease that many people are effected by. Birth control pills can lower the risk of some cancers in women. “Women that have taken the pill for 5 years or longer have a 50% reduction in the risk of developing ovarian cancer,” says gynecologic cancer surgeon Ginger Gardner, MD. [16] A discovery off 36 studies concluded that for every 5 years a woman takes the pills, her risk of developing endometrial cancer is reduced by nearly 25%. The advantages of the pills were still present more than 30 years after they were stopped. [16]
Even though there are numerous advantages to taking birth control pills. The disadvantages cannot be overlooked. Current, or even recent, use of birth control pills can slighty increase the risk of developing breast cancer. Studies have shown that women who are currently taking birth control pills have a 20 to 30 percent higher chance of growing breast cancer tumors, compared to those who have never used the pill. [18] The risk for breast cancer in young women is very low, and young women are the leading users of the pills. Therefore, the slight increase is still very slim. Once a woman is done taking the pills, the risk will decrease over the course of 10 years. [18]
Nonetheless, I present that my findings lead to birth control pills being the healthiest for the woman’s body. Compared to the other forms of contraception, the pills have the most benefits and the least disadvantages. They are even prescribed by doctors, to women who are not sexually active. They benefit so much more than unwanted pregnancies and there are many different brands that a woman can choose from. Dosage of the pills can be altered as well as the ingredients in the pill. There is a right one for everyone.
Birth control is an extremely controversial topic, and there are many different opinions on each method. In order to insure the safety of the women in the world, the research must be ongoing. This is an imperative topic and determining which form is healthiest will support wellbeing. My claim is that oral contraceptives are the healthiest method. Information on the pros, cons, and how they work in the body support this.