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, certain methods may not work for everyone. The four common methods that may have reduced effectiveness include the birth control pill, condoms, the pull-out method, and fertility awareness-based methods.

The birth control pill is typically very effective when taken correctly and consistently. However, it may be less effective for women who forget to take their pills regularly, or those who experience side effects such as nausea or vomiting, which can interfere with proper absorption.

Condoms are a widely used barrier method of contraception. While they are effective when used correctly, they can fail due to incorrect usage, such as not leaving enough space at the tip or not using a new condom for each act of intercourse. Additionally, condoms can break or slip off, especially if not properly fitted or stored.

The pull-out method, also known as coitus interruptus, involves the man withdrawing his penis before ejaculation. While this method can be effective if done perfectly, it is challenging to execute correctly every time. Pre-ejaculate fluid may still contain sperm, and even a small amount of semen entering the vagina can lead to pregnancy.

Fertility awareness-based methods, such as the rhythm method or tracking basal body temperature, can be effective when used correctly and consistently. However, they require careful tracking of a woman’s menstrual cycle and fertility signs. These methods may not be suitable for women with irregular cycles or those who struggle to accurately identify their fertile window.