There are numerous constituents that come into action when a specific method for birth control is being determined. Amongst them the main determining factors are the maturity level of the individual and the number of times the sexual act is expected to be performed. All these factors lead to the choice between several contraceptives that are available in the market and have stood the test of time. Some of the most popular ones have been stated in a few words in the following paragraphs.

Amongst the contraceptives the foremost that comes to mind is the birth control pill. It is made up of estrogen and progestin combined or individually of progestin. They have their share of side effects. Smokers are suggested against it owing to an amplified heart disease risk. Further prolonged use can result in obesity, sickness, irregular flow of blood, and gloominess.

History of birth control pills

The term birth control pill is usually referred to the group of drugs used by females to avoid pregnancy. In 1955 a couple of scientists, introduced the concept of birth control pills when they used progestins for birth control. Before that people used to try things like condoms, diaphragms, sponges and even avoiding sexual intercourse at the time of the fertile period. The latter had its disadvantages with its efficiency being very low as compared with the former ones. Later it was also found that adding estrogens made them more efficient.

The Billings Birth Control Method

The Billings or mucus inspection method was named after John and Evelyn Billings - two Australian doctors who developed the method in 1953. It is based on the examination of the vaginal and cervical mucus which change as hormone levels vary during the course of the woman's menstrual cycle.

Birth Control Pills Advantages

Highly effective reversible contraception. Birth control pills provide highly reliable contraceptive protection, exceeding 99%. Even when imperfect use (skipping an occasional pill) is considered, the BCPs are still very effective in preventing pregnancy.

Menstrual cycle regulation. Birth control pills cause menstrual cycles to occur regularly and predictably. This is especially helpful for women with periods that come too often or too infrequently. Periods also tend to be lighter and shorter.

Birth Control While Breastfeeding

Sex After Childbirth

It used to be that women were advised to not have sex until six weeks after they gave birth, at their six week check-up. If you feel comfortable with this, then you can wait. However, the vagina typically heals after two weeks or so, and the cervix will also be closed after two weeks. If you haven't had any complications, you can have sex as early as two weeks after you give birth. Ask your doctor if there are any reasons you shouldn't.

Problems With Early Pills

"If you want to begin taking the pill, you will need a prescription from your physician. Begin taking the pill on the fifth day of your period. Get in the habit of taking your pill at the same time every day to lessen the chance that you will forget to take one. You continue to take a pill for 21 days, after which you do not take one for seven days. About three days after you take the last pill your period will start," said Dr. David E. Larson, editor-in-chief of the "Mayo Clinic Family Health Book."