Health & Life

4 Common Birth Control Methods That May Not Be Effective

There are four common contraception methods that are often shared and practiced, but they may not be as effective as you think. Let's delve into this topic and uncover the truth about these methods.

Administrator

1 June, 2024

Contraception is a topic of interest for many couples, but not all methods are safe and effective. Here are four commonly shared and practiced contraception methods that may not yield the desired results:

1. Timing Intercourse

Some believe that having intercourse before ovulation is safe as sperm cannot meet and fertilize the egg, resulting in a very low probability of pregnancy. While this method is natural and cost-free, its effectiveness is extremely low.

According to obstetrician-gynecologist Zhang Yuqin from Cathay Hsinchu Hospital in Taiwan, China, even with careful timing, the chances of pregnancy remain relatively high. This is because sperm can survive for up to five days, and eggs can survive in the body for three days.

Timing Intercourse

2. Withdrawal Method

Many couples assume that withdrawing before ejaculation prevents pregnancy. However, this method is risky and prone to result in pregnancy.

The reason lies in the fact that men release small amounts of sperm through pre-ejaculate fluid produced by the prostate gland, which can lead to fertilization.

Essentially, withdrawing only reduces the amount of sperm that comes into contact with the egg, but it does not eliminate the possibility entirely. Therefore, women can still become pregnant if their partners do not wear protection during withdrawal.

Withdrawal Method

3. Double Condom Use

It is a misconception that using two or more condoms simultaneously increases pregnancy prevention effectiveness. On the contrary, this practice does not enhance safety and can decrease comfort during intercourse while reducing the effectiveness of contraception.

Using a single condom is the most sensible option, as employing two condoms increases friction, making them more prone to tearing and diminishing their protective function.

Double Condom Use

4. Douching After Intercourse

Some women douche their vagina with water or other liquids after intercourse as a means of contraception. However, this practice is ineffective and can lead to infections.

The unique structure of the vagina makes it difficult for sperm to exit once it has entered the uterus. Furthermore, a woman’s body is typically weaker after intercourse, and douching and exposure to water can make her more susceptible to illness.

Vaginal douching is harmful to health, as using a showerhead, spray, or solution can cause damage, impact fertility, and increase the risk of gynecological issues.

Douching After Intercourse

These are the four ineffective contraception methods that are commonly practiced. We hope this information helps you understand and avoid these methods to make more informed choices.

Source: Vietnamese Women’s Newspaper

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Frequently asked questions

While birth control methods are generally effective in preventing unwanted pregnancies, no method is 100% foolproof. Some common methods that may not always work include the rhythm method, withdrawal method, condoms, and birth control pills. Each of these methods has a typical use failure rate, which means that when used consistently but not perfectly, they may not prevent pregnancy every time.

The rhythm method, or natural family planning, involves tracking a woman’s menstrual cycle and abstaining from sex or using protection during fertile periods. However, this method assumes regular cycles and ovulation, which may not always be the case. Stress, illness, or other factors can cause ovulation to occur earlier or later than expected, resulting in an unexpected pregnancy.

The withdrawal method, also known as ‘pulling out,’ involves the man withdrawing his penis from the vagina before ejaculation. While this method can be used as a form of contraception, it is not highly effective. Pre-ejaculate fluid may contain sperm, and even a small amount of semen released before withdrawal can lead to pregnancy.

Condoms are a widely used and effective form of birth control when used correctly and consistently. However, they can break or slip off, especially if not used properly or if the quality is poor. Additionally, condoms do not protect against pregnancy if they are not used for the entire sexual act or if they are used incorrectly.

Birth control pills are highly effective when taken correctly and consistently. However, they rely on remembering to take the pill at the same time every day. Missing pills, taking them inconsistently, or certain medications and health conditions can reduce their effectiveness. Additionally, vomiting, diarrhea, or certain supplements can interfere with the absorption of the hormones in the pill, increasing the risk of pregnancy.