|
 Traditional methods of family planning Natural family planning
This method involves observing a variety of body changes in the woman (such as, cervical mucus changes, basal body temperature changes) and recording them on the calendar in an attempt to determine when ovulation occurs. The couple abstains from unprotected intercourse for several days before and after the assumed day of ovulation. This method requires special education and training in recognising the body's changes as well as a great deal of continuous and committed effort. It is believed that this method is risky and could result in a higher percentage of pregnancies when compared to other methods of family planning. Modern methods Condoms
They are available everywhere. Not just for men. There are some even for women. Condoms are thin sheaths (preferably latex to also protect from transmission of disease-causing organisms) placed on the penis or, in the case of the female condom, at the opening of the vagina prior to intercourse. Semen is collected inside the condom, then removed after intercourse. Condoms are easily available at low costs in medical shops and grocery stores. Some family planning clinics offer free condoms. Oral contraceptives (the 'pill')
This method utilises a combination of estrogen and progestin in dose regimens that prevent ovulation and regulate cycles. Though the pill is easily available in India, it is always prudent that one sees a doctor before starting on the pill. This is because sometimes it could cause side effects.
In India, the Government has always taken a leading role in popularising this method of birth control as this method is highly effective. However, the woman must remember to take her pill consistently each day at the same time. Normally, the pill is recommended to be taken every night.
Precaution: Oral (by mouth) antibiotics may decrease the effectiveness of birth control pills. Therefore, a backup method of contraception should be used while taking antibiotics and until the next menstrual period after completion of the antibiotic. Owing to the availability of a wide variety of oral contraceptives, women who experience unpleasant side effects on one type of pill are usually able to adjust adequately to a different oral contraceptive. It is important for women who are just starting on 'the pill' to keep in touch with their doctor, so that the doctor could spot some unusual side effects, if any. Intrauterine contraceptive device or the IUD
This is a small plastic and copper device, which placed inside the woman's uterus by her doctor. IUD's may be left in place for several years. The method should not be used by women who have a history of pelvic infection, ectopic pregnancy or who have more than one sexual partner (and are therefore at higher risk for acquiring sexually transmitted diseases). About 2 to 3 pregnancies occur per year out of 100 women using this method.
| 
