15 best contraceptives

It is difficult to say how barbaric modern contraceptive methods our descendants find, because the most progressive and safe contraceptives two hundred years ago look today as an instrument of torture. It is known, for example, that in the Middle Ages women wore iron caps on the cervix, lubricated it with a solution of mercury and lead, and inserted into it pessaries made of steel wire and caused infection and bedsores of the reproductive organs. At different times and in different countries, contraceptives were now and again banned by the authorities or by the church, so devices such as a vaginal syringe or vaginal douche, which were used to cleanse the internal female organs, periodically appeared on the market.

Current contraceptives promote the principle of safety and guaranteed protection against unwanted pregnancy. Official contraceptive drugs of three types are justified and approved by official medicine: physiological, barrier, and medication.

• Barrier. Prevent sperm from entering the uterus. The most famous barrier contraceptive is a condom (both male and female). Other barrier contraceptives are intrauterine devices, contraceptive sponges, cervical caps, and spermicides.
• Physiological. Assume the commission of sexual intercourse on certain days of the female cycle, when the risk of becoming pregnant is minimal. Another method of physiological control - the method of PPA (interrupted sexual intercourse).
• Drug. Presents pills, as well as vaginal rings and spirals, releasing hormones that block the onset of ovulation.

Assigning a woman a certain method of contraception, gynecologists often provide her with the opportunity to independently choose the appropriate means from a number of similar ones. But how can this be done if the same drug has dozens of analogs identical in composition and mode of action? The ranking of the best contraceptives takes into account the opinion of other women, the cost of drugs, the compliance of the expected effect and the real, as well as the presence of additional benefits and side effects.

We remind you that the information below is not a guide to your purchase. Consultation needed with a specialist!

The best birth control pills

It has long been proven that the prolonged absence of pregnancy is capable of impairing a woman’s health, triggering a hormonal failure, as well as mental and organ diseases associated with it. Vern Boullot, a French historian by profession, spoke of this as early as the 19th century: "If a woman is not regularly pregnant, she will suffer from hysteria and a whole category of somatic symptoms that stimulate almost any kind of physical illness or mental state."At the same time, unwanted pregnancy and abortion can cause a woman no less harm than the prolonged absence of pregnancy.

Millions of women worldwide choose hormonal contraceptives as a priority contraceptive. They do not affect the sensations during intercourse and are guaranteed to protect against unwanted pregnancy and the consequences of its absence. The effect of hormonal contraceptives is based on the prevention of ovulation. Scientists estimate that at the time of birth, the girl’s ovaries contain about 1 million follicles that can become eggs, and by the age of 37 there are only 25,000 left. Meanwhile, hormonal pills have not only advantages, but also an impressive list of side effects, often life-threatening.

3 Laknet

Lactinet contains the only active ingredient - desogestrel. Belongs to the category of mini-pili (drugs containing the minimum amount of hormones). Mini-pills Lakinet often assigned to lactating women with an active menstrual cycle, as well as those women who are contraindicated combined OK. Laktinet - one of the few oral contraceptives prescribed to smoking women, as well as women after 45 years.

Another feature of the Hungarian OC is that its protective action against unwanted pregnancy is somewhat lower than that of modern COCs. For this reason, the drug is not recommended for use by women in active reproductive age (up to 30 years). Otherwise, it is a fairly effective contraceptive with a smaller list of current contraindications and side effects than modern pills.

Advantages:

• allowed during lactation;
• does not affect weight gain;
• suitable for those with intolerance to synthetic estrogens.

Disadvantages:

• provokes the occurrence of mastopathy;
• disrupts the menstrual cycle while taking;
• causes depression;
• causes nausea at the beginning of the course.

2 Marvelon

Combined contraceptive preparation from the Dutch company Organon. Approved for use by women over 35 years, as it contains a reduced number of active ingredients. In addition to the contraceptive effect, it normalizes the amount of discharge and eliminates pain during menstruation. It can be used as an emergency contraceptive, but not more than 1 time in 6 months. The effectiveness of Marvelon as a postcoital agent does not exceed 80%.

According to women who took Marvelon, the drug has a negative impact on the ability to become pregnant in the case of its long-term use, so these pills are recommended to drink courses. Given the increased risk of thrombosis, before taking the drug is recommended to be examined by a hematologist, a hepatologist and a vascular surgeon.

Advantages:

• is inexpensive;
• normalizes the cycle;
• increases libido.

Disadvantages:

• causes acne;
• thickens blood;
• increases appetite.

1 Jess

Jess is a combined oral contraceptive from Bayer, a German pharmaceutical company. The active ingredients are drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol. Used to protect against unwanted pregnancy, with severe forms of PMS, as well as for the treatment of acne. The contraceptive effect of pills is based on blocking ovulation and changing the quality of the cervical mucus, which becomes too thick to promote sperm.

Unlike other COCs with the same active ingredient, the Jes formula has been improved: it uses the last (4th) generation Drospironone, and ethinyl estradiol in each tablet is 1.5 times less than in other COCs.For this reason, Jess, less frequently than other drugs, causes swelling, mastopathy, and weight gain.

Advantages:

• eliminates menstrual cramps;
• reliably protects against pregnancy;
• improves skin condition.

Disadvantages:

• the cycle is long restored after completing the course of Jess;
• addictive;
• reduces libido;
• causes migraine.

The best contraceptive candles

Contraceptive candles are classified as spermicidal contraceptives. The principle of action of chemical spermicides is the destruction of the shell of spermatoids: interacting with the spermatozoa, the components of the drug destroy their shell, separate the head from the tail, depriving them of the ability to move. Especially strong sperm, however, are still able to get to the egg and fertilize it. This can be fraught with the birth of a child with certain physical deformities. This relationship has not been proven, but many women testify to this. It is not recommended to use such contraceptives regularly, because the acids contained in the composition of the candles can have a negative effect on the condition of the mucous membrane in the vagina, as well as on the cervix. Candles are not distinguished by the highest contraceptive ability. According to statistics, 15 out of 100 women using contraceptive candles become pregnant within a year.

Thus, contraceptive candles are a convenient option for women who have rare sex. Candles are ideal as an additional contraceptive — when the pill regimen was disrupted or during the completion of lactation. The undoubted advantages of this method of contraception are the lack of systemic effects on the body and the preservation of intimate sensations.

 

3 Gynecotex

Ginecotex candles use the same active ingredient as Pharmatex candles - benzalkonium chloride, therefore these agents are similar. The principal difference between Gynecotex and Pharmatex is its cost: Russian candles are about 3 times cheaper than German ones. Some women note that these candles dissolve somewhat worse in the vagina and give more foam.

Advantages:

• are inexpensive;
• do not cause burning;
• protect against infections.

Disadvantages:

• long dissolve.

2 Patenteks Oval

The main active ingredient in Pantex Oval is nonoxynol. Included in many contraceptives as a lubricant: due to spermicidal properties, it contributes to the contraceptive effect of cervical caps, condoms, sponges and vaginal films. When interacting with a sperm cell, it damages its membrane, thereby depriving it of its ability to dissolve the egg cell membrane. The time required for sperm destruction is 40 seconds (10 times longer than Farmax). The drug does not possess bactericidal and antiviral properties, therefore it cannot be used as protection against STIs. There are studies that prove that nonoxynol contributes to the incidence of a person's certain types of human papillomavirus.

Advantages:

• effective;
• dissolve quickly;
• have a stimulating effect.

Disadvantages:

• have an unpleasant smell;
• cause itching;
• excessively foaming.

1 Pharmatex

The main component of the drug is benzalkonium chloride. This medicine has been used in medicine since 1935. It has not only a contraceptive effect, but also an antiviral (protects against infection with herpes simplex viruses), antifungal and antiprotozoal. The substance has an instant effect on the sperm cell: its shell is completely destroyed within 10 seconds after contact with benzalkonium chloride. The rest of the drugs in this group require at least 30 seconds.Due to irritation of the mucous membrane of the vagina and cervix, the drug is able to increase the amount of secreted mucus, which has an additional contraceptive effect.

Advantages:

• have a pleasant smell;
• dissolve in 5 minutes;
• protect against infections.

Disadvantages:

• cause irritation;
• badly open;
• provoke too much mucus.

The best intrauterine contraceptive spirals

The IUD is a contraceptive that has been well known since the days of ancient China. In the past, spirals were made of aluminum wire and wood, and today they are made of hypoallergenic plastic impregnated with anti-inflammatory compounds. By its action, the helix refers to barrier, abortive and spermicidal agents simultaneously.

• Fertility decline. The presence in the uterus of the inflammatory process contributes to the production of proteins that inhibit the maturation of the egg. As a result, ovulation is inhibited and fertilization does not occur.
• Abortive effect. Located inside the uterus, the coil negatively affects the endometrium, inhibiting its growth and the ability to accept a fertilized egg. In fact, the helix provokes miscarriage in early pregnancy.
• Spermicidal effect. In response to a positioned helix, superficial inflammation occurs inside the uterus. As a result of inflammation, the alkaline environment in the uterus is replaced by an acidic, detrimental to spermatozoa and contributing to their destruction. To increase the acidity of the intrauterine space in the spirals, copper is additionally used, which stimulates the release of an acidic secretion.
• Barrier contraceptive effect. The inflammatory process causes irritation of the cervical canal, which, in turn, produces an increased amount of thick cervical mucus that prevents sperm from entering the uterus.

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a reliable and effective way to prevent unwanted pregnancy, which, however, is associated with the creation in the body of a chronic infection.

3 Simurg Bio-T Ag

The intrauterine annular spiral Juno Bio-T Ag is one of the best non-hormonal contraceptives that reduces the risk of unwanted pregnancy due to the fact that the intrauterine device takes the place of a fertilized egg, preventing its location. It has a classic T-shaped, the base is an anchor of high-density polyethylene. It is recommended for women who already had childbirth, but is also suitable for those who have not given birth. Made in diameter 18 mm for women who have not given birth and 24 mm for giving birth.

According to reviews, it is the best means of contraception for family planning and for couples who already have children. Installed for 5-7 years.

Virtues:

• affordable price;
• long term;
• reliability.

disadvantages:

• access external infections in the uterus;
• the need for tests before installation;
• medication for the prevention of infections.

2 Juno Juno T Au

Juno's intrauterine device Juno T Au is a means of intrauterine contraception that reduces the likelihood of unwanted conception. The spiral is made of pure copper and gold, which makes it long-term. It has a T-shaped, its base is a plastic anchor. Recommended for women who need long-term protection from unwanted pregnancies. Contraindicated in pregnancy and malignant diseases of the genital organs. Valid for at least seven years.

According to many women, the main advantages of this type of contraception is an affordable price and long term use.

Advantages:

• long service life;
• clean composition;
• does not cause discomfort during intercourse.

Disadvantages:

• risk of infection in the uterine cavity;
• increase in the menstrual cycle;
• bleeding.

1 Mirena

Mirena belongs to the category of hormone-containing spirals, therefore, the principle of its action is similar to that characteristic of hormonal pills. The fundamental difference is only in the way hormones are delivered to the body. However, according to some women, the hormonal coil, in contrast to OK, does not cause increased appetite, does not provoke edema and does not cause irritation of the digestive organs. Like Multiload, Mirena is set for 5 years.

Advantages:

• normalizes hormones;
• reliably protects against pregnancy.

Disadvantages:

• requires large one-time expenses;
• causes back pain;
• contraindicated in the presence of benign tumors.

Top barrier contraceptives

Barrier contraception is the oldest, cheapest, most versatile and common method of contraception. A typical representative of this category is a condom. Less known are contraceptive sponges and rings, cervical caps, vaginal films and diaphragms, as well as chemical barrier agents (candles, sprays, gels). Contraindications to the use of these tools are practically absent, so they are ideal for those who have intolerance to OK or IUD. Some of the barrier contraceptives can prevent premature ejaculation in men, protect against STIs and allergic reactions to the ejaculate in women. The main disadvantage of barrier means is that they are valid only at the time of their use. The best of barrier contraceptives were included in our rating.

3 Durex classic

Condom is the most common method of barrier contraception. Barrier contraceptives prevent the meeting of the egg and sperm. The condom is made in the form of a small thin-walled elastic tube with one closed end and an inlet opening on the other. Condoms are suitable for almost all women, except in cases of latex allergy. It does not affect the hormones and, at the moment, is the only method of contraception, which protect against STDs.

Many women still prefer this non-hormonal method of protection because of its almost 100% reliability and ease of use.

Advantages:

• protect against STDs;
• do not change the hormones;
• Suitable for daily protection.

Disadvantages:

• high price;
• loss of sensation;
• there is a risk of damage to the latex sheath.

2 Contraceptive sponges Farmateks

Contraceptive sponges as a barrier method have been used by women for many centuries: in ancient times they were sea sponges soaked in oils, and today they are polyurethane foams soaked in chemical spermicidal compounds. In pharmatex sponges, benzalkonium chloride is used as a spermicide. Unlike contraceptive suppositories, the sponge has not only a spermicidal effect, but also a mechanical one - it physically prevents sperm from entering the cervix. Having installed the sponge, the partners can immediately start the PA, and in the case of repeated sexual intercourse they will not need to insert a new sponge into the vagina, as it retains its effect during the day.

Advantages:

• does not follow;
• conveniently introduced;
• acts for a long time;
• has a pleasant smell.

Disadvantages:

• inconveniently removed;
• difficult to find in pharmacies.

1 Contraceptive ring Novaring

Novaring is one of the methods of hormonal contraception, which, however, uses a fundamentally different way of introducing hormones - vaginal. Due to this, the hormone does not pass through the liver and gastrointestinal organs, therefore it does not adversely affect them. The ring releases the minimum required amount of the hormone throughout the day, which eliminates hormonal jumps during the day (as is the case with oral contraceptives) and creates a steady hormonal background.Another advantage of the tool is the confidentiality of its use: the ring is easy to install by yourself, it is not felt during intercourse and does not require removal after. Duration of action - 3 weeks. After 21 days, the ring is removed, and after 7 days is installed again.

Advantages:

• installed once a month;
• does not cause nausea;
• has less pronounced side effects than OK.

Disadvantages:

• sometimes falls during straining;
• causes headache;
• provokes the development of vaginitis;
• allergic;
• increases the appetite.

The best emergency contraceptives

Emergency contraception is used when it is necessary to interrupt an unwanted pregnancy that occurred as a result of unprotected intercourse. Used tablets or intrauterine devices. Means do not allow pregnancy to occur due to the fact that delayed ovulation. However, this applies to pregnancy that has not yet come for up to 72 hours after intercourse with the use of tablets and 120 hours after intercourse if the intrauterine device is used. If you do not take a means of emergency contraception before the expiration of 72 hours, then they can do nothing to harm a possible pregnancy. You also can not think that with age, the risk of unwanted pregnancy from unprotected intercourse is reduced. According to statistics, women in the age group of 30-40 years old are quite fertile and are also included in this risk group. The main and serious drawback of emergency contraceptives is that they cause serious stress to the body and harm women's health.

3 Eskapel

Escapel is a contraceptive used for emergency contraception, similar in its effect to Postinor. The main active ingredient is levonorgestrel. Escapel is a better and less harmful contraceptive. Made in the form of flat large white tablets. Contraindicated in pregnant women, adolescents under 16, women who smoke over 30-40 years old and people with renal insufficiency. The advantage of Escapel is a high probability of preventing unwanted pregnancy, and with less loss to the body.

In the opinion of most women, Escapella is preferred because of its softer and more gentle action, despite the high price.

Advantages:

• high efficiency;
• taken once;
• causes less damage to the body.

Disadvantages:

• high price;
• side effects;
• failure of the menstrual cycle.

2 Postinor

Postinor is one of the methods of emergency contraception. The contraceptive agent is injected in the form of tablets containing the active ingredient levonorgestrel. It prevents pregnancy by delaying the maturation of the egg or obstruction of ovulation. Contraindicated in adolescents under 16 years of age and with liver problems. The main advantage of Postinor is that it gives a high guarantee of preventing unwanted pregnancy, but it should not be taken more often 2 times a year.

According to women, Postinor is an effective, but dangerous, contraceptive that needs to be taken after weighing all the pros and cons.

Advantages:

• no consequences in the form of hormonal disorders;
• warranty up to 95%;
• 72 hours to prevent unwanted pregnancy.

Disadvantages:

• can not be used with other contraceptives or alcohol;
• can not be used more than once every six months;
• may cause cycle failure and bleeding.

1 Ginepriston

Ginepristone is a means of emergency contraception. It is not a hormonal contraceptive, and therefore less harmful to the body.Ginepriston blocks the link between hormones and receptors, preventing these pregnancies, but it does not inhibit the action of progesterone, as other contraceptives do. This is its main advantage against the background of harmful hormonal emergency contraceptives. Contraindicated in women older than 30-40 years, with problems with the kidneys and uterine myoma.

Most women speak very positively of him and consider it the best choice for those who care about their health.

Advantages:

• most gentle in comparison with other contraceptives;
• effective;
• is not hormonal.

Disadvantages:

• high price;
• side effects;
• does not allow to save the pregnancy in case of failure.

Popular vote - who is the best manufacturer of contraceptives?
We vote!

CEVA

Bayer

Gedeon richter

Sperko

Schering-plow

Veropharm

Nizhpharm

Innotech

Reckitt benckiser

Simurg

MIR-PHARM

Total votes: 354

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