Approximately half of pregnancies in the United States are unintended. This fraction has declined in recent years. Still, unwanted pregnancy remains a persistent challenge to the well-being of women, children, and families. This article explores simple ways to prevent unwanted pregnancy with a particular focus on effective methods of contraception.
With the advent of unwanted pregnancies and the rise of teen pregnancies, it has become necessary to address the issue of pregnancy clearly. Therefore, every year, from February 10th to 16th, World Pregnancy Awareness Week and Condom Awareness Week are celebrated. A significant percentage of unwanted pregnancies are due to not using birth control, using contraception incorrectly and experiencing contraceptive failure. Certain factors need to be considered when choosing birth control, including how effective they are, how they work, and whether they protect an individual from sexually transmitted infections (STIS). The risk of becoming pregnant stays every time you have intercourse without contraception, including the first time you are ever involved in sexual intercourse. Some methods can be purchased without a prescription, while most require a doctor’s prescription. Each kind of contraception comes with advantages and disadvantages. Check out the different types of contraception formulated to help people avoid unwanted pregnancy.
Barrier methods
When used correctly, barrier methods effectively work to stop the body fluids from being passed from one individual to another during sexual intercourse. These include:
- Male condom: Male and female condoms are contraceptives that not only prevent sperm from reaching the egg but also protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). When the correct method is used, 98 percent of unwanted pregnancies can be prevented with the help of male condoms. However, caution should be followed while buying condoms. The expiry date and other instructions should be checked thoroughly. Also, once bought, it is important to store it properly.
Using a male condom correctly means:
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- Choosing the right size
- Place the condom on the head of the penis. Make sure the penis is erect. If uncircumcised, pull the foreskin back first.
- Pinch the tip of the condom once to remove any air.
- To wear it completely, unroll it down the penis, while being careful not to tear it.
- After intercourse is done, hold the base of the condom in place before you pull out of the vagina.
- Dispose of it and never reuse it.
Male condoms are usually made of latex. Other types are also available for those who are allergic to latex.
- Female condoms: The condoms for females can also be purchased without a prescription. They can be used in place of a male condom by the female partner. The World Health Organisation (WHO) suggests that female condoms are about 95% effective for contraception.
- Diaphragm: Another barrier method is a diaphragm that women place inside the vagina. It is necessary to apply spermicide to the diaphragm before each use. Research suggests that diaphragms are about 92-96% effective at preventing unwanted pregnancies. The diaphragm must be inserted a few hours before intercourse. It needs to be left in place for about six hours after intercourse and removed after 14 hours. A diaphragm is not effective against sexually transmitted diseases.
- Contraceptive pills: Birth control pills are the commonly used medicine for unwanted pregnancies in the United States. Usually, there are two types of pills, and these are:
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- The combined pill contains estrogen and progestin. These should be consumed regularly.
- The mini pill containing progestin: A woman who wants to prevent unwanted pregnancy must take this pill at the same time every day without missing a day. Women receiving the mini-pill will not necessarily have a scheduled period. If used correctly, these pills are 91 to 99% effective in preventing an unwanted pregnancy.
Causes of unwanted pregnancies
Addressing unwanted pregnancy is essential because of its detrimental impacts, which include increased risk of parenting issues, maternal depression, higher risk of maternal, neonatal and infant mortality, high risk of preterm delivery, and adverse birth outcomes. In addition, some maternal deaths are related to an unwanted pregnancy due to its increased risk of unsafe abortion. Unwanted pregnancy is also associated with preterm delivery. More so, there is also an increased risk of maternal complications (preeclampsia and postpartum haemorrhage, as well as child malnutrition). Causes of unwanted pregnancies can be attributed to three main factors:
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- Lack of sexual education
- Contraception neglect
- Failure of contraception
Moreover, Teenage pregnancy is also one of the major causes of unwanted pregnancies, often resulting from a combination of factors like lack of sex education, peer pressure, poverty, limited access to contraception and inadequate support system.
Teenage pregnancy
Teenage pregnancies are on the rise, owing to the change of lifestyle and communication patterns that are brought on by technology. As awkward as it may be for most parents, it is their responsibility to have the bird-and-bees talk with their kids at the right age. Often, parents give half the information and leave the rest for the kids to figure out. Parents must address all issues from puberty, sexual intercourse, contraceptives, safety and pregnancies. Most teens get into early sexual activity, mostly through peer pressure. Parents need to understand the fragile nature of their minds and address those issues accordingly. If it is still hard to explain, you may request a relative or a teacher to have a word. Similarly, there are many clinics and workshops aimed at raising awareness about pregnancy to avoid unwanted pregnancy.
Takeaway!
Small mistakes can lead to many regrets. Remember to enjoy life, but play safe, always. Stay in touch with your healthcare specialist to ensure you receive the necessary medical attention and support throughout your journey, whether you keep the pregnancy or decide on termination. Consult your healthcare specialist about medicine for an unwanted pregnancy. Remember, you are not alone, and there are resources available to support you throughout this process. The most common methods of contraception are condoms. They are almost considered 100 per cent safe. Condoms will not only save you from unwanted pregnancies, but they will also stop the transmission of any sexually transmitted diseases.
