Masumbuko 1

Igihozo Masumbuko

Professor Barnes

ENG 1201.513

25 March 2021

The Safest and Most Effective Birth Controls Women Can Use

There are different types of birth control that women can use, such as the pill, the shot,

and the IUD. Each birth control has its own benefits and side effects. Some birth control methods

can be effective for some people, while for other people it’s not as effective. That’s because some

people have medical issues. When people have medical issues they are putting themselves at risk

for complications when they use certain methods. It’s important for women to consult with their

doctors before they go on birth control. Implants and IUDs are the safest and most effective birth

control for women to use; however, the methods can vary because each woman is different and

as women age their body changes as well.

According to dictionary.com, birth control is, “regulation of the number of children born

through the deliberate control or prevention of conception.” The most common type of birth

control are the pill, the shot, the IUD, and the implants. The pill is a form of birth control that is

taken by mouth to prevent someone from getting pregnant. However, it doesn’t protect from

sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV. (Birth Control Pill: Side Effects, Effectiveness, How

the Pill Works, and Types). The second type of birth control is the shot. The brand name of the

shot is called Depo-Provera. The shot can be taken on someone's arm or butt. It is effective for

12 to 14 weeks but it takes every 12 weeks for someone to have full protection (Depo-Provera

(Birth Control Shot). The third type of birth control is the IUD. The IUD is also known as the

intrauterine device. It’s a T-shaped device that is implanted inside the skin. “It prevents
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pregnancy by stopping sperm from reaching and fertilizing eggs” (IUD (Intrauterine Device)

Birth Control: Effectiveness & Side-Effects). The fourth type of birth control is the implant. The

implant is a device that goes under someone's skin. A hormone is released that then prevents

someone from getting pregnant (Birth Control Implants: Side Effects, Effectiveness, Cost, and

Removal).

There are four different key methods for birth control. The first method is behavior.

Behavior is something that a person and their partner have to agree on. The second method is

barrier. Barrier is something that blocks the sperm from getting to the egg. For example,

condoms. The third method is hormonal. Hormonal is basically what changes a woman's body.

The fourth method is medical. Unlike hormonal, medical is a procedure that women have to go

through for body change. When it comes to effectiveness for birth control, it goes by the way it

was made and the person. The way it’s used is important, for example, when someone takes it

late or incorrectly it won’t be as effective (Best Birth Control: Types, Effectiveness, and How It

Works).

The benefits of the birth control pills are they help regulate periods, reduce cramping,

lower a risk of certain cancers, and they might clear acne. There are two brands that treat severe

premenstrual syndrome. Those two brands are called Beyaz and Yaz (Birth Control Pill: Side

Effects, Effectiveness, How the Pill Works, and Types). Side effects that come with taking birth

control pills are nausea, mood changes, mild headaches, lighter cycles, blood may be smaller in

amount, sore or swollen breasts (Birth Control Pill: Side Effects, Effectiveness, How the Pill

Works, and Types). There are less common but more severe side effects that can be caused from

birth control pills. Those are stomach pain, severe headaches, chest pain, eye issues, swelling and
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aches towards the legs and thigh area (Birth Control Pill: Side Effects, Effectiveness, How the

Pill Works, and Types).

The birth control shot has its own benefits as well. The benefits of having the

Depo-Provera shot are it’s low maintenance, it’s reliable, provides long term protection of every

3 months, it’s successful, don’t have to take estrogen, can cause cycles to be lighter, can reduce

cycle pain, and decreases chances of getting endometrial cancer (Depo-Provera (Birth Control

Shot). As someone takes the Depo-Provera birth control shot consistently, they can begin to have

negative side effects. The negative side effects can be irregular periods, no periods, depression,

nervoussness, diznesses, acne, appetite change, gain weight, more body and facial hair, loss of

hair, stomach pain, bloating in stomach, bleeding that can be experienced from outside of

periods, tired, weaker, and lower sex drive (Depo-Provera (Birth Control Shot).

IUDs have benefits that come with them and they are less likely to have side effects. First

and foremost, the benefits of them are, long lasting, not complicated, one payment upfront, and

safe for breastfeeding mothers (IUD (Intrauterine Device) Birth Control: Effectiveness &

Side-Effects). The side effects that may occur vary from person to person. If someone somehow

gets pregnant on an IUD they may have a horrible experience. That person may experience a

miscarriage, along with an infection. They may also have to have the baby early. When someone

has stomach pain or is bleeding in their vagina area they are to let their doctor know. It’s best to

let a doctor know when someone is feeling that way, so that side effects don’t worsen (IUD

(Intrauterine Device) Birth Control: Effectiveness & Side-Effects).

The use of implants can be beneficial or can cause side effects. The side effects can be

scarring, infection, redness, bruising or swelling, and pain. There are also other side effects that

may occur. Those are irregular bleeding, sadness, mood swings, gain in weight, stomach pain,
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vomiting, acne, back pain, vagina pain, vaginitis, and headaches (Birth Control Implants: Side

Effects, Effectiveness, Cost, and Removal). However, the benefits of implants are, they are

effective, not complicated to use, easily reversible, reduced pain during cycles, and lighter to no

cycles. There’s also something important before using birth control implants. Nobody should use

implants if they think they are currently pregnant or already have been pregnant (Birth Control

Implants: Side Effects, Effectiveness, Cost, and Removal).

Every birth control has it’s pros and cons. As far as effectiveness, each birth control has

its own as well. For example, the implant has a 99.9 rate of effectiveness. The pill and shot seem

like they have the most benefits but they also have the most side effects. Whereas, the IUDs and

implants have more benefits than side effects. That also varies from person to person. Also, it

doesn’t matter which birth control someone takes. Consistency is the key of it all in order for it

to work effectively. Seeing a doctor often is recommended. As well as if someone experiences

any side effects, they should let their doctor know as soon possible.

When someone is having sex, using two forms of birth control is the best way to prevent

pregnancy. Those two forms are the implants and IUDs. They are the easiest ones to use because

they require low effort. You also don’t have to remember anything to use them. IUDs and

implants are trustworthy as well. The other methods such as the pill and shot can be used to

prevent pregnancy but only if they are used exactly how they are supposed to be used. As

humans we are not perfect, therefore these methods can end up being less effective. For example,

if someone forgets to take a pill or forget to go in for their appointment, they will then not be

protected from pregnancy and be at risk (What's the Best Kind of Birth Control For You?).

As someone gets older the birth control they use or need to use may change. According to

healthline, to avoid the risk of pregnancy for teenagers they recommend birth controls such as
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copper IUD, hormonal IUD, and birth control implant. Those birth control options are also

effective for women who are in their 20s and 30s. Realistically, all of the options are safe for

women in their 20s and 30s. However, if they have any medical conditions they might want to

avoid certain options (How to Choose Birth Control at Every Age).

Even women in their 40s there is a chance they could get pregnant. It is suggested to keep

using birth control until they are in menopause. Also if women are around their 40s and don’t

want to get pregnant they have the option of having sterilization surgery. That’s the permanent

option. By the time someone gets to the age of 50 there chances of getting pregnant are

incredibly low. If someone is still taking birth control at this age, they should ask their doctor if

it’s safe to continue using it. Also, when someone is over the age of 50 and is not using birth

control that means they are going through menopause (How to Choose Birth Control at Every

Age).

Overall, the best way someone can avoid pregnancy all together is being abstinent.

Abstinence is not having intercourse. Things happen in life where that isn't always possible.

Outside of abstinence, the most effective way to prevent pregnancy is using birth control and

condoms. Condoms are also a way for preventing any form of STD. No form of birth control is

perfect alone. Using a form of birth control along with condoms provides a reinforcement. Just in

case any one of them fails during intercourse (What's the Best Kind of Birth Control For You?).
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(“IUD: A Safe, Effective Birth Control Option”)

This is a health professional named Heather Hirsch. She made a video explaining why an

IUD is a safe and effective birth control option. She is also an MD, MS, NCMP. In the video, it

shows she works for The Ohio State University, in the women’s health center. She states in the

video that, “there are a few IUDs in the market that last from 3-5 years. There is also an IUD that

has no hormones that lasts for 10 years.”

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(“Effectiveness of the Birth Control Implant in Your Arm”)

This video was made by Planned Parenthood. In this video it talks about how effective

the implant is, specifically in the arm. When someone gets the birth control implant in their arm,

they are protected from pregnancy for five years. The main key is it’s suitable and you can’t

make mistakes while on it. Also, the side effects are known to go away after a couple months.

Whereas, the other birth control side effects don’t always go away after a couple months.

(“IUD and Implant: Set It and Don't Sweat It Birth Control”)

This picture shows why implants and IUDs are the best option for birth control. Implants

are 99% effective, they can cost from zero dollars up to one thousand and three hundred dollars,

and they last up to four years. That can depend on the brand someone chooses because some

brands can last up to five years or more. IUDs are 99% effective, they can cost up from zero

dollars to one thousand and three hundred dollars, and they last from three years to twelve years.

Again, it depends on the brand that someone uses because some can last lower or higher than

that.
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There are people who are not in favor of birth control. Writer Peter Baklinski argues that,

“the use of birth control only serves to increase the abortion rate.” He also says, the money that is

being made from birth control, will only benefit the abortion industry. This is because if birth

control fails, people will then turn to abortion. The rates for birth control will then decrease while

the rates of abortion increase. He believes that birth control is the root of evil because it keeps

women from getting pregnant. He also believes that without birth control society would be better.

He’s one of those men that believe all women should have a child. As a woman he believes that’s

their role, regardless of any situation they may be in (Baklinski).

Another viewpoint from Donald DeMarco states the belief that birth control stops

intimacy during marriage. He thinks that birth control is an option married couples choose to live

the lifestyle they desire. He believes that’s wrong because that’s being egotistical for controlling

their life the way they want, rather than just living life, and letting things happen naturally.

DeMarco believes controlling the number of kids you have is wrong as well. He also is saying

marriage would be much better without the use of birth control. All and all, he believes real love

is not controlled.

Birth control should be used by those who want to use it. Those who use it should also

not be judged. Everyone has their own life and are allowed to make their own decisions. As well

as their own path that they want to live. I believe it wouldn’t interfere with marriage. Marriage is

supposed to be built around love, rather than the number of kids couples have. Kids should not

define love or a marriage. Birth control was made so that people can have kids when they want

to. Most of the birth controls are made reversible and won’t affect fertility. Therefore, I don’t see

the issue of women in particular to use birth control.

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In conclusion, IUDs and implants seem to be the safest and most effective birth control

options for most women. Although, there are other options such as the pill and the shot, they are

the least reliable, safe, and effective options. It’s also important to consider any health problems

you have before going on any birth control. Having doctor visits frequently and reaching out to

your doctor when side effects increase is also critical. That will help any future complications

that may occur.

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Works Cited

Baklinski, Peter. “Birth Control Leads to More Abortions.”Birth Control, edited by Jack Lasky,

Greenhaven Press, 2016. Opposing Viewpoints. Gale In Context: Opposing Viewpoints,

link.gale.com/apps/doc/EJ3010568283/OVIC?u=dayt30401&sid=OVIC&xid=ecd8fab8.

Originally published as "Why the Fight Against Abortion Begins with Contraception,"

lifesitenews.com, 23 Apr. 2013. Accessed 26 Mar 2021.

“Best Birth Control: Types, Effectiveness, and How It Works.” WebMD, N.d.,

www.webmd.com/sex/birth-control/best-effective-birth-control. Accessed 26 Mar 2021.

“Birth Control.” Dictionary.com, N.d., www.dictionary.com/browse/birth-control?s=t. Accessed

26 Mar 2021.

“Birth Control Implants: Side Effects, Effectiveness, Cost, and Removal.” WebMD, N.d.,

www.webmd.com/sex/birth-control/birth-control-implants-types-safety-side-effects.

Accessed 26 Mar 2021.

“Birth Control Pill: Side Effects, Effectiveness, How the Pill Works, and Types.” WebMD, N.d.,

www.webmd.com/sex/birth-control/birth-control-pills. Accessed 26 Mar 2021.

DeMarco, Donald. "Contraception Compromises Marital Intimacy." Sex, edited by Mary E.

Williams, Greenhaven Press, 2000. Opposing Viewpoints. Gale In Context: Opposing

Viewpoints,

link.gale.com/apps/doc/EJ3010162222/OVIC?u=dayt30401&sid=OVIC&xid=ef057840.

Originally published as "Contraception and Compromised Intimacy," New Oxford

Review, Sept. 1998. Accessed 26 Mar 2021.

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“Depo-Provera (Birth Control Shot).” WebMD, N.d.,

www.webmd.com/sex/birth-control/birth-control-depo-provera. Accessed 26 Mar 2021.

“Effectiveness of the Birth Control Implant in Your Arm: Planned Parenthood Video.” YouTube,

19 July 2019, youtu.be/47I3nlODVu8. Accessed 26 Mar 2021.

Grey, Heather. (2019), “How to Choose Birth Control at Every Age”, Healthline.

https://www.healthline.com/health/birth-control/options-every-age#teens. Accessed 26

Mar 2021.

“IUD: A Safe, Effective Birth Control Option.” YouTube, 10 Apr. 2017, youtu.be/8Xh5jl_ai8I.

Accessed 26 Mar 2021.

“IUD (Intrauterine Device) Birth Control: Effectiveness & Side-Effects.” WebMD, N.d.,

www.webmd.com/sex/birth-control/iud-intrauterine-device. Accessed 26 Mar 2021.

Parenthood, Planned. “IUD and Implant: Set It and Don't Sweat It Birth Control.” Planned

Parenthood, N.d.,

www.plannedparenthood.org/planned-parenthood-northern-new-england/campaigns/iud-a

nd-implant-set-it-and-dont-sweat-it-birth-control. Accessed 26 Mar 2021.

Parenthood, Planned. “What's the Best Kind of Birth Control For You?” Planned Parenthood,

N.d.,

www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/teens/stds-birth-control-pregnancy/whats-best-kind-bi

rth-control#:~:text=The%20kinds%20of%20birth%20control,if%20you%20use%20them

%20perfectly. Accessed 26 Mar 2021