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To choose the best contraceptive method, it is important to consult the gynecologist to discuss the various options and choose the most appropriate, because the indication may vary according to the reason why the contraceptive is being indicated.
The pill is the most popular contraceptive method, but as it should be taken every day, preferably at the same time, there is a risk of forgetting to take a pill, and could become pregnant. Therefore, there are other methods such as the implant or the IUD, for example, which can be used in these cases to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Learn how to take the contraceptive.
Although there are several contraceptive methods, the most effective and recommended method is the use of condoms during sexual intercourse, because in addition to preventing unwanted pregnancies it also prevents sexually transmitted infections.
The contraceptive method that must be adopted by each woman depends on the reason why she seeks a contraceptive means, and must be indicated by the gynecologist. Thus, some of the reasons that the gynecologist may indicate another type of contraceptive are:
1. Do not want to take or forget to take the pill
In this case, it is best to use the implant, the patch, the monthly injectable or the vaginal ring, in addition to the use of the intrauterine device. That's because forgetting to take the pill or not taking it according to the gynecologist's guidance, can increase the chances of unwanted pregnancy. Thus, when using these contraceptive methods there is no likelihood of forgetting and there is a greater certainty that pregnancy is avoided.
However, in the case of women who do not want to worry about contraception, the most suitable methods are the implant or the IUD, for example.
2. The pill has many side effects
Some women report various side effects with continued use of the birth control pill, such as headache, nausea, changes in menstrual flow, weight gain and changes in mood, for example.
In these cases, the gynecologist may recommend changing the pill or recommend the use of another contraceptive method, such as an implant or diaphragm, which is a rubber ring-shaped method that prevents sperm from entering the uterus and can be used several times for about 2 years. Learn more about the diaphragm and how to use it.
3. Unprotected intercourse
In the case of unprotected sexual intercourse, it is recommended that the woman take the pill the next day, up to 72 hours after intercourse, to avoid fertilization of the egg by the sperm and implantation of the embryo in the uterus. Understand how the morning after pill works.
4. Intense PMS
When the woman has strong PMS symptoms, such as migraine attacks, severe cramps, nausea, abdominal and leg swelling, for example, the gynecologist may indicate the use of an implant or IUD as a contraceptive method, because these methods are related to minor side effects, which can have a positive effect on relieving PMS symptoms.
5. Recent pregnancy
After the baby is born, the gynecologist may recommend the use of some contraceptive methods, mainly the pill of continuous use, which should be taken every day and does not promote major hormonal changes, being considered safe for the woman and also not interfering in milk production, for example.
6. Gynecological changes
In the case of some gynecological changes such as endometriosis or polycystic ovary, for example, the use of contraceptive methods such as the combined pill, which is with estrogen and progesterone, or the IUD, may be indicated by the gynecologist.
If no contraceptive method has been adopted, it is possible to check the woman's fertile period and thus assess the chances of pregnancy. To find out the fertile period, put the information in the following calculator: