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Contraceptive Guide: 4 questions to ask yourself in order to find the right contraceptive for your lifestyle

Contraceptive Guide: 4 questions to ask yourself in order to find the right contraceptive for your lifestyle

NEW CONTRACEPTIVES GUIDE: FMM X BEIJE Women 
If you are not ready to fall pregnant, there are certain precautions that you need  to take. These precautions are mainly related to the use of birth control methods. Contraceptions, or birth control methods, reduce the chances of falling pregnant for those who are sexually active. Additionally, some birth control methods also protect against sexually transmitted infections/diseases (STIs/STDs). 

There are varied reasons why a person may not want to fall pregnant. They may not be financially, mentally or physically prepared or they may simply never want to have any children. Whatever the reason, the right contraceptive method can reduce the risk of an unintended or unwanted pregnancy. 

Which birth control method an individual prefers, and why they prefer this particular method, always differs. Additionally, different methods may suit you at different times in your life. As a result, there is no single ‘best’ contraceptive. The method that works best will depend on your needs, health and circumstances. 

Luckily, there are a range of contraceptive methods to choose from. We understand that these can sometimes be confusing and overwhelming to navigate – but don’t worry! 

Questions that you can ask yourself to help determine which contraception may be right for you

  1. How often do I have sex?

    Determining the right contraceptive method for you will depend on whether you are sexualy active or not. If you are having casual sex,  it would be good to consider a contraceptive that prevents both unwanted pregnancies and STIs/STDs, such as condoms. But if you are involved in a more long-term relationship, you may want to consdider a more Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC), such as an IUD, Implant or Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill (also known as birth control pills).

  2. Do I plan to have children in the future?

    If you are not ready to have children anytime soon, then a long-acting contractive such as the IUD and/or implant may be more suitable. IUDs and implants are easily removable in case you do change your mind.  However, if you are certain that you never want to have children, tubal ligation and a vasectomy are two permanent methods to be considered. While it is possible to reverse  these methods, there are still mixed scientific results on the return of fertility.

  3.  Do I also want to protect myself against sexually transmitted infections?

    If you have multiple sexual partners or engage in casual encounters with new acquaintances, you should think not only about preventing an unwanted/unintended pregnancy, but also about protecting yourself from STIs/STDs . In this case, an external condom would be the best way to go. 

  4. Do I have a medical history that should be considered before deciding?

    It’s particularly important to get a medical history examination before choosing hormonal contraceptives. Evaluation of weight, blood pressure and medical history are useful screening methods to decide on an appropriate contraceptive method. For example, if  you’re a smoker and above the age of 35, it is not advisable to take the birth control pills as they may increase the likelihood of blood clots. Visit your closest health center for a full medical examination.

Guided by these questions, you are now prepared to make the best decision for you and your lifestyle! We also advise speaking to your health care provider for more guidance and support. In the meantime, you can check out this Contraceptive Guidebook, which is a collaborative effort  between FindMyMethod.org and BEIJE Women. The guide details the various contraceptive methods available in Turkey.

 

Do you have something to share? Leave your comments below, contact us on our social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and TikTok, send us an email to info@findmymethod.org. For more information on contraception, visit findmymethod.org

About the author: Aysima Kiris is a psychologist and currently a graduate student of Gender and Women’s Studies. She is studying gender-based violence, consent, women empowerment, sexuality knowledge and body image.

References:

FindMyMethod.org is a sex-positive resource for tailored contraceptive and sexual health information and services. 

BEIJE Women is a Turkey – based business that offers sustainable menstrual hygiene products.