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June 2, 2010

Ultrasound is a Male Contraceptive

Filed under: STI, birth control, birth control methods, contraceptive, male contraceptive, the Gates family, ultrasound — Tags: birth control, contraceptive, male contraceptive, STI — Candace @ 12:37 am

Researchers in the University of North Carolina are pushing for further research into the new idea that an ultrasound can be used as a reversible contraceptive for men. The idea is that a blast of ultrasound to the testes may be able to stop sperm production for approximately six months. Once the sperm production has been stopped, all the sperm in the sperm reserves must be used up before this contraceptive method is effective.

This would offer another method of birth control for couples. It is thought that these sperm impeding ultrasounds would be affordable to most people. The plan in the long-term for the University team is to use an ultrasound from instruments found in sports medicine or physical therapy clinics. One of the best things about this contraceptive method is that it is thought that the sperm production will continue as normal after the approximate six months of infertility is up.

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation sponsored this research with a $100,000 grant (one of seventy-eight grants by this foundation). This financial help will support the pursuing of clinical trials to prove this method. One warning issued about this contraceptive is that although it will prevent pregnancy (if it is proven), it will not protect against the transmissions of STI’s.

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May 28, 2010

5 STI Risk Factors

Filed under: STD, STI, Uncategorized, alcohol, birth control, condoms, contraceptive — Tags: birth control, condoms, contraceptive, STD, STI — Amanda @ 1:01 am

At least one in every four Americans will contract and STI at some point in their life. STI’s are a serious health problem to adults and if they go untreated, they can cause permanent damage. Certain factors in your life will determine your risk of contracting an STI, so here are the top 5 STI risk factors -

1. Unprotected Sex - This one is a given, but it is very important. You’re more likely to contract a sexually transmitted infection if you do not use barrier methods of birth control like condoms.

2. Being Young – People between 18 and 29 are more likely to be infected with an STI than an older person. Women and men in their 20’s have the highest rates of STI’s out of any age group. This could be because young women are more susceptible to them. Their cervix’s aren’t fully developed and they are more likely to experience tearing during intercourse. Young people in general are less likley to practice safe sex by using condoms, and are more likely to have multiple partners.

3.Alcohol and drug use - People who use alcohol and drugs on regular basis may have lowered inhibitions and may be less “picky” about who they choose for a partner. Those under the influence of alcohol and drugs may be more stubborn about condom use.

4. Having multiple partners - The more partners you have the more likely you are to be exposed to STI’s. Usually people with multiple partners choose partners who have also had multiple partners. This increases the risk of your partner having contracted an STI from a different partner. Your risk increases even higher if you hire a sexual professional because the truth is they aren’t being paid to enforce safe sex with partners.

5. Relying only on Birth Control Pills - for most sexually active people their main concern is pregnancy. Lots of couples choose birth control pills as their only contraceptive method. This is 99% effective against pregnancy, but this does not protect against STI’s. Once a couple is established in using the pill as their only form of protection, they will become reluctant to use condoms. This can be because they have gotten used to a sexual routine without condoms, or perhaps because they just don’t like using them. The safest option is to use birth control pills AND condoms.

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March 25, 2010

Who Should Use IUDs?

Filed under: Birth Control Pill, IUD, Intrauterine device, Mirena, Uncategorized, birth control, birth control methods, birth control options, contraception — Amanda @ 4:47 pm

IUDs (Intra-Uterine Devices) are becoming increasingly popular in North America. The IUD is a low-maintenance, effective form of birth control. Once a device is in place, it can work for 5-12 years (depending on the device) and you can have it taken out sooner if you need to have a child or change methods. IUDs protect you from pregnancy each time you are sexually active and you don’t feel it or notice it’s there.

The IUD is the best option for women who have a low risk of acquiring STIs (sexually transmitted infections), need to avoid estrogen-based products and want a reversible type of birth control. Married women or women in a long-term relationship over the age of 20 are the best candidates. Although young adults can use IUDs effectively, they are more likely than adults to have multiple partners and are therefore at an increased risk of contracting an STI. The IUD isn’t a good first choice for a newly sexually active teen because she cannot predict her partners future sexual behavior. In addition, problems including expulsion, removal for bleeding and pain, and pregnancies are more common in teens than older women using the IUD. Talk to your doctor about your birth control options to find out what is best for you.

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Birth Control Pills Lengthen Life

Filed under: Uncategorized, birth control, birth control benefits, birth control pills, lifespan, the pill — Nicole @ 4:24 pm

A British medical study that has recently concluded that women who have taken birth control pills are more likely to have a longer lifespan. This study observed the effects of the first generation of birth control pills in over forty thousand women, and has compared the number of deaths of those who were taking the pill to those who weren’t since 1968. Overall, this study demonstrated that the health benefits of taking birth control pills can outweigh any initial risks associated with taking birth control.

In fact, this research has further shown that taking the pill decreases the risk of death caused by bowel cancer by an average of thirty-eight percent. And although birth control has been proven to slightly raise the risk of developing breast and cervical cancer, this study demonstrated that overall, birth control pills decrease the chance of dying from any other diseases, including heart disease and all cancers by twelve percent.

But before jumping on board with birth control forever, remember that this method of contraception is not without risk, and that it’s important to outline your medical history with a doctor before taking the pill. The birth control pills that were observed in this study are slightly different than the modern products, which may not have the same life-lengthening benefits.
Though the women in this study took birth control pills all at various points in their lives for various amounts of time, the study concluded that “Oral contraception [is] not associated with an increased long term risk of death” so much that a net benefit is truly apparent.

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March 12, 2010

The First Forms of Contraception

Filed under: Uncategorized, birth control, birth control methods, contraceptives, oral contraceptive — Nicole @ 10:15 am

The first contraceptive methods mark much further back in history than anyone would expect; the first known forms of birth control date all the way back to 1850 B.C.E., when Egyptian women took to inserting objects and concoctions into their vagina to effectively block or kill sperm. Called pessaries, the Egyptians frequently used different concoctions made from honey and even crocodile feces as what they perceived to be effective forms of birth control.

Honey as a Contraceptive?
Although few of us would place our faith in honey as a contraceptive, the recipe for the honey concoction that the early Egyptians used was quite effective. The recipe involves the primary ingredients of acacia berries, colocynth and honey. When acacia berries are compounded, they form lactic anhydride, which is extremely similar to lactic acid, a component often used in modern contraceptive jellies. It is unclear what the colocynth ingredient may have been; however, many historians will categorize it as a plant called Citrullus colocynthis Schrad, which produces a type of bitter apple with properties that may induce abortion. The use of Citrullus colocynthis Schrad as an abortifacient is still utilized today among many Arabic women.

Are Crocodile Feces Actually Effective?
Not many of us would truly ever wish to use crocodile feces as a pessary form of contraception, and it’s a good thing too, because under modern medical scrutinization, the recipe of the crocodile feces concoction does not appear to be effective in any way. In fact, according to modern medical science, the insertion of crocodile feces into the vagina is likely to increase chances of becoming pregnant. Crocodile dung is quite alkaline, and because the optimal pH level conditions to encourage pregnancy are more alkaline than the natural pH levels of the vagina, the feces would not act as an effective contraceptive. The Egyptians would have used crocodile dung likely because of the similarities between the crocodile and depictions of the Egyptian god Seth, who was associated with miscarriage and abortion in their religious beliefs.

The Egyptians were the first in what is now a multi-million dollar industry today, which, thankfully has modernized to provide several different methods of birth control from condoms to oral contraceptives, none of which include any form of animal feces.

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February 27, 2010

Your Guide to Spring Break

Filed under: Uncategorized, birth control, birth control methods, sex education, sexually transmitted diseases, unprotected sex — Candace @ 8:58 am

A study done by the National Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy states that under fifty percent of young people use contraception when having sex. Unfortunately many young girls fail to understand the importance of contraceptive methods. Here are a few tips girls may find useful during spring break.

Bring Condoms - Always keep a few condoms in your purse, just in case. Condoms are the only option in preventing STI’s (Sexually Transmitted Infections), so always use one. If you are using birth control pills, make sure you pack enough and always take them at the same time each day.
What If? – If the condom slips off you can rely on the Plan B® One Step. This pill is used up to 72 hours after having unprotected sex as a contraceptive method. If you are 17 or older you are able to get it from any pharmacy without a prescription.
Take Your Pill – If you are on the pill, make sure you take the pack with you on your trip. Forgetting to take the pill will increase the risk of pregnancy.
ICE - If you end up in the hospital due to some injury or illness, you may find yourself unable to phone somebody to inform them of your situation. Program your mom’s – or anyone else’s – phone number into your phone under “ICE” (“In Case of Emergency”) so that you will be prepared no matter what happens. Also make sure you get the phone number of a local cab service, and the hotel you are staying in.
Designate Someone Sober - Just to keep everyone straight and make sure nobody makes any bad decisions when they are drunk, have one person designated to not drink each night. Make a rule where nobody should leave with any people they met before the Spring Break trip.
Be Wary - Watch where your drink originates from. Make sure you accept drinks you have seen being made. Do not leave your drink unattended. It is very easy for someone to slip something into your drink, so be careful.

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February 9, 2010

Women May Be Using Unsafe Oral Contraceptives

Filed under: Alesse birth control, Birth Control Pill, Uncategorized, birth control, birth control methods, blood clot, oral contraceptive, venous trombosis — Candace @ 5:44 pm

Various brands of oral contraceptives have been linked to a heightened risk of contracting venous thrombosis. Venous thrombosis – a blood clot forming inside a vein – may cause soreness, but the infection in itself has no serious effects. Venous thrombosis can easily lead to a pulmonary embolus. This is where a piece of a blood clot formed in a vein breaks off and eventually ends up in the lungs. This disease is very serious and may be deadly if left untreated.

A study conducted in the Netherlands compared 1524 patients diagnosed with either venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism and 1760 healthy patients who were not using oral contraceptives. The women using oral contraceptives had 5 times more of a risk of contracting venous thrombosis than the women not using oral contraceptives.

A follow up study was conducted in Denmark. Healthy women between 15 and 49 years old were studied. A total of 4213 cases of venous thrombosis were found; 2045 of these causes were from women using oral contraceptives.

The type of progestogens in the contraceptives affected the risk of contracting venous thrombosis. When you 1st begin using oral contraceptive your risk of getting venous thrombosis will be high, regardless of what brand you use. Levonorgestrel, a type of progestogen, has the lowest risk of contracting venous thrombosis. The progestogens providing the highest risk of contracting venous thrombosis are gestodene, desogestrel, drospirenone, and cyproterone acetate.

The best oral contraceptives that can be used are those with a low level of oestrogen. Levonorgestrel or norethisterone are fine to have in oral contraceptives. The most recent progestogens are more likely to cause venous thrombosis. The risk of getting venous thrombosis is low (only 5 in 100,000 people), but when using oral contraceptive the risk increases up to 25 in 100,000 people.

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December 30, 2009

Abortion Rates Rise

Filed under: Birth Control Pill, Uncategorized, abortion, abortion rates rise, birth control, birth control pills — Candace @ 10:28 am

In Canada in 1970, out of 100 live births, there were only 3 abortions, with a total of 11,152 abortions for the year. By 1988, there were 70,754 abortions, with 19.3 abortions of every 100 live births. In 2001 there were 106,418 abortions. Out of 100 live births, 31.9 were aborted. Times have changed. Some girls are now using repetitive abortions as a type of birth control.

1. Worldwide there are approximately 42 million abortions per year, and 115,000 per day.

2. In the United States alone there were 1,370,000 abortions in 1996. Currently there are 3,700 abortions a day in the US.

3. Teenagers have 20% of all abortions; girls under 15 obtain 1.2% of all abortions. That is 504,000 abortions per year (worldwide) by females under 15.

4. 1% of abortions are because of rape or incest. 93% of abortions are because of personal reasons.

5. 47 % of all abortions are executed on women who have had at least one abortion previously.

6. In England and Wales 74 teens had their third abortion in 2008. 15 other teens under 18 had previously had between 3 and 6 abortions.

7. 1,500 of 19,000 girls under 18 who had an abortion in 2008 had also had at least one earlier abortion. In at least one case a teen was having her 8th abortion.

Some girls are not using contraception services and instead are relying on abortions, which can be dangerous, as repeated abortions may result in severe negative results. Having several abortions may cause cervical stenosis, which increases the chances of endometriosis or infertility. It may also cause scarring in the uterus (Asherman’s syndrome) which may result in infertility and miscarriage. This doesn’t necessarily mean abortion is a extremely hazardous procedure, but it is not recommended to have several abortions.

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December 14, 2009

“The Pill” – Birth Control Prompt on Your Phone

Filed under: Birth Control Pill, Uncategorized, birth control, forgetting birth control, iPhone, sex education — Candace @ 4:19 pm

The iPhone is a fairly new and highly popular device with hundreds of applications being created for it daily. A new application just released is called “The Pill 1.0″. This application helps girls remember to take their birth control pill, which countless girls would forget otherwise. It has a cycle, which the girl chooses the starting day, and for 21 days each day it has a reminder which comes similar to a sms text in the morning for the girl to take her birth control pill. The next part of the cycle is a 7 day period with no reminder.
This new application was made by a French developer, Stephane Queraud. It is available in French, English, and Russian. A graph representation of the tablet is available with the application to show the girls how their real tablet should look. In the past, nearly every girl asked had forgotten to take her pill at least once. Now that problem is solved!
The Pill comes with other perks as well, such as a countdown showing when will be the next notification, a full graphical representation of the tablet, and advice in case you forget your pill and need to know what to do.
The Pill is available on iPhones worldwide. It is only $0.99 US on the iPhone app store in the medicine subcategory.

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October 29, 2009

Birth Control: A Timeline

Filed under: Birth Control Pill, Depo Provera, IUD, Mirena, Uncategorized, birth control, birth control methods, birth control patch, birth control types, early birth control, today sponge — Amanda @ 4:16 pm

4th Century A.D - Aristotle gave advice on how to prevent pregnancy. He told women to use olive oil, lead ointment, or frankincense oil as a spermicide – Needless to say, his intentions were good but his methods were flawed.

The Greeks claimed that by applying pressure to the uterus by pushing on a woman’s abdomen will force sperm out of her vagina. Although it sounds ridiculous, they had to start somewhere.

1400’s – the Chastity belt was invented. Today they may be viewed as a cruel violation of human rights, however in the 15th century Chastity belts were a form of teaching abstinence. Chastity belts were created to make it physically impossible for a woman to have sex or masturbate. They were often made of steel, locked shut with a padlock, and only had small openings for excretion. These belts were made in only one size – so larger women were forced to endure the pain of an ill-fitted device.

1700’s – 1800’s – The first pregnancy preventing condom was used by Giacoma Girolamo Casaova. Funny enough he referred to condoms as “english riding coats”. In the 19th century, condoms were made of animal gut and were packaged in paper envelopes. Although the product was somewhat formal (being packaged and all), its role as contraception was not very effective.

1844 – American Charles Goodyear invented the vulcanization of rubber. This was a process that stopped rubber from becoming sticky. Mass production of condoms began shortly after he patented his finding.

1900’s – Based on early Egyptian prototypes, in the early 20th Century people were using sponges with strings attached for removal as contraceptive devices. Often these sponges were dipped in vinegar or lemon juice which would act as a spermicide. The method seemed plausible, however it was not necessarily effective or safe. Today, there are safe synthetic sponges which are sterile and coated with chemical spermicide.

1930’s – When the Great Depression hit, many couples could not afford to support children. During this time, new methods of birth control were introduced. The douching method was introduced (like Aristotle’s olive oil technique) however this time it was advertised as “Lysol Douching”. Yes – Lysol surface cleaner was used as a vaginal spermicide for a short time, however when reports started piling in about irritations and vaginal scalding, the method slowly lost popularity. So, a proto-intrauterine device was created. The IUD’s in the 1930’s consisted or something like a metal rod attached to a circular object such as a button. Needless to say, these early attempts often resulted in irritation and severe uterine infections. Oops.

1950’s – The first Birth Control Pill (Envoid) was originally created to promote fertility and reduce menstrual symptoms in women. It was approved by the FDA in 1957 and began gaining popularity, however, around that time there were many complaints by Envoid users about increased menstrual problems. The pill was re-introduced to the FDA four years later as an oral contraceptive. By 1964 the pill was a huge success and became America’s number one type of birth control.

1990’s – In 1992 Depo-Provera was approved by the FDA. This was the first hormonal injection that was used to prevent pregnancy.

Today – Today, there are many forms of safe and efficient birth control. There are shots, patches, rings, IUD’s and Pills available in all different forms that are up to 99% effective.

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October 13, 2009

Could The Pill Be To Blame For The Jonas Brothers Fame?

Filed under: Birth Control Pill, James Bond, Jonas Brothers, Sean Connery, Uncategorized, Yasmin, birth control, ovulation, the pill — John @ 3:37 pm

Could the fame of one of the most popular musical acts, be the result of birth control? Yes, I am talking about the Jonas Brothers. I’ve always wondered how they became so popular. But now science, my good old friend, may have found the answer. Birth control.

A recent study came up with the findings that women are attracted to certain types of men at different times of the month. During ovulation, the period where women are most fertile, women find masculine men more attractive. While during the other part of the month the more feminine men will have an advantage. This is why they believe that macho guys like Sean Connery (think Bond here) aren’t perceived as the more attractive of the two types of males. It also explains how in only a generation the more feminine, non-alpha male has now suddenly become the most desired trait a woman is looking for.

But how does birth control change all of this? Good question. Well according to the research, because birth control stops ovulation, women who take the pill don’t actually experience that point in the month where they are attracted to the manly type of men. Instead they are constantly within that phase of finding feminine guys who they think will be better at caring for children attractive.

However, the survey also flipped views and looked at women from the perspective of the males. The report showed that men find women more attractive when they are ovulating. Bad news for women on the pill is, they don’t ovulate and are often found less attractive to men. An experiment was conducted featuring lap dancers. Dancers that were ovulating made $20 more and hour in tips than women who weren’t ovulating.

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September 28, 2009

5 Ways to Save Money on Birth Control

Filed under: Birth Control Pill, Stopping the pill, Uncategorized, birth control, birth control methods, birth control prices, generic medicine, recession — Amanda @ 4:12 pm

Many American women are unable to afford birth control during these harsh economic times. It’s been reported that women are trying harder not to get pregnant because they can’t afford to have a child. Some are trying to save money by skipping the pill or going off the pill for several months in order to save money.

Ask for Generic

Switching from a name brand birth control pill to a generic pill can help you save money. Ask your doctor to write down the generic birth control pill on your prescription.

Subsidized birth control

Find out if you qualify for subsidized birth control. Your local health department or family planning clinic may offer discount birth control to low income families.

Ask for help from your partner

This is an option for single women who don’t have combined incomes with their partners. Why shouldn’t the guy help pay for birth control? He’s benefitting from it too – and he’ll be in deeper financial problems if you become pregnant.

Short term solution

If you are strapped for cash but need to pick up your prescription, see your doctor and ask if they have any samples they could give you. Often a clinic will receive birth control samples that they will be able to give you if they understand your situation.

Insurance Plan

Your insurance plan may cover certain types of birth control like the IUD or surgical sterilization. Check your insurance plan and consult your doctor to see what will work best for you.

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September 17, 2009

India’s New Birth Control: Cash Incentives

Filed under: Birth Control Pill, Uncategorized, birth control, birth control pills, india, population, population growth — Amanda @ 3:25 pm

India’s current population is over 1.2 billion, and it is expected that it will reach 1.53 billion by the year 2050, exceeding China’s population and becoming the world’s most populous nation.

The National Rural Health mission is continuously coming up with new ways to control the population growth. The newest form of birth control in India isn’t the Pill or a television – but money. The National Rural Health mission is granting couples who agree to delay having a child for a year 5,000 Rupees (125 USD). Some couples are agreeing to delay having a child for two years, and earning an extra 2,500 Rupees (50 USD). Considering that 70 Rupees a day is a good wage in India’s rural areas, many couples are welcoming the government’s offer.

Half the population in India is under the age of 25, and 27 million babies are born each year.

President of the Mission for Population Control says “India should aim for zero population growth – We feel that two children is a necessity, but a third is not required. It is better for families to control their family size.”

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August 31, 2009

Common Birth Control Side Effects

Filed under: Birth Control Pill, Birth Control Side Effects, Uncategorized, birth control, birth control pills, breast tenderness, dizziness, headaches, mood swings, nausea, side effects of birth control, spotting — Amanda @ 11:15 am

When taking hormone based birth control, you will likely be faced with several side effects as a result of your body’s way of adapting to the hormones. With birth control, the side effects usually go away after 3 months of use, so as long as you can trek through the rough patch, you will reap the benefits of birth control.

Headaches, dizziness, and breast tenderness are common side effects for women taking hormonal birth control. The best way to handle these symptoms is to take a couple of Advil, lie down, and drink a glass of water if the symptoms become unbearable.
Nausea is a possible side effect of birth control. This symptom usually goes away after a couple months of use.

Spotting is when you have breakthrough bleeding between periods that is usually very light. The trouble with spotting is that is is unpredictable. Try taking the pill at the same time everyday in order to prevent spotting. For those who have spotting while using a ring or IUD, try a different method of birth control. The spotting will stop when your body becomes used to the changes.

Mood swings are the utmost common side effects of using birth control. Because your body is taking in more female hormones, you may find yourself in a constant emotional state. For many women, this symptom is prominent in the first few months of taking birth control. After three months it becomes less noticeable.

If you are experiencing extreme side effects, try switching methods or pills. Remember that almost all side effects will die away after several months of using birth control.

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August 13, 2009

Molecular Condom?

Filed under: AIDS, HIV, Uncategorized, birth control, condom, preventing AIDS, semen — John @ 11:40 am

Yes, a molecular condom. American scientists have created a gel specifically designed to prevent the transmission of HIV. The gel is made from a polymer that women can use as a sort of molecular condom. Although it will still be a few years before this product is available the first trials are extremely successful. The gel becomes semi-solid in the presence of semen and catches the HIV in its microscopic mesh, preventing transmission.

The goal of the project was to develop a vaginal gel to prevent the spread of HIV so women could protect themselves without having to try and persuade their partners to do it. The areas that would benefit most from this gel are the under-resourced countries like sub-Sahara Africa and south Asia where the rate of infection is as high as 60% in women.

This gel would be a great way for women to stop HIV transmission in places that do not approve of birth control methods (condom). However, if the woman were to take this, the male would not need to use the condom during intercourse and the female would hopefully remain HIV free.

The way the gel works is that while under normal acidity in the vagina (when the pH is around 4.8) the bonds of the polymers are weak and remain as a gel. However, when the environment becomes less acidic and the pH is around 7.6, which is what happens when semen is present, the polymers stick together and the gel becomes a semi-solid.

While looking at the speed of HIV in the gel there are remarkable results. Even while the gel is till a gel the virus moves slow, however, as soon as the gel become semi-solid the virus stops completely.

There are hopes that this gel can also act as a birth control method and protect against other STD’s like herpes. Hopefully this product is a success and we see it on the open market within the next 10 years.

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July 30, 2009

What are Birth Control Injections?

Filed under: Depo Provera, Uncategorized, birth control, birth control methods, diabetes, injection, migraines — Amanda @ 9:55 am

For those who have a hard time remembering the pill or cannot use oral contraceptives, there is an efficient alternative. Injections of a medicine called “Depo-Provera” contain the female hormone progesterone that prevents pregnancy.

This injection is to be given once every three months for a total of four times a year by a healthcare professional. Some of the benefits to this birth control method are that Depo-Provera does not cause any estrogen related side effects, and there is no need to remember it day-to-day, but only to remember to have the injection every 3 months. In addition, Depo-Provera reduces risks of ovarian and endometrial cancer and Pelvic Inflammatory Disease.

Unlike most other methods, Depo-Provera may be used by women who have sickle cell disease, high blood pressure, severe migraines, blood clots, diabetes, women older than 35, women who are smokers, as well as women who are on medication that could interfere with birth control pills.

Some women on Depo-Provera have unpredictable periods with either decreased or increased flow, and some women do not have menstrual bleeding at all. Other potential side effects are headaches, alteration in mood, and decreased bone density (a side effect of most forms of birth control)

If you are interested in Depo-Provera, visit your healthcare professional to see if it’s right for you.

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July 20, 2009

Indias New Birth Control Method

Filed under: Uncategorized, birth control, birth control methods, india, overpopulation, population, population growth — Amanda @ 11:48 am

According to a story in the London Times, the Health and family welfare minister of India Ghulam Nabi Azad has introduced a new idea to control the population in India’s rural areas. In a country with a population of more than 1.17 billion, whose population growth is increasing by 1.6% each year, India will inevitably face problems such as famine, lack or resources, and disease if it’s population is not controlled within the next 40 years.

Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad has suggested a new birth control idea to control the population of rural areas of India – the highest contributors to the population. He suggested that the country try its efforts in bringing electricity into underprivileged rural areas and providing families in poverty with television sets in hopes to distract couples from getting busy with addicting soap operas and reality TV shows, because of course television is capable of distracting thousands of couples from doing what is naturally and genetically programmed into their DNA. A late night talk show will curb any innate instincts that couples will have.

“If there is electricity in every village, then people will watch TV until late night and then fall asleep. They won’t get a chance to produce children,” Azad stated. “When there is no electricity, there is nothing else to do but produce babies.” “I don’t think that I am saying this in a lighter vein. I am serious. TV will have a great impact. It’s a great medium to tackle the problem… 80% of population growth can be reduced through TV.”

Although this theory is possible – the question is for how long will this method of birth control take effect? Perhaps for the first 6 months this idea will prove as a success as it will hold the interests of its users. But when it comes down to it how many re-runs of television sitcoms can the poor people of India bear to watch?

The Times wrote “the Minister called on India’s television channels to provide high-quality programs, arguing that enticing content would offer alternative late night entertainment.”

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July 2, 2009

Top 7 Failed Attempts at Birth Control

Filed under: Birth Control Pill, Uncategorized, birth control, birth control methods, birth control myths, condoms, douching — Amanda @ 11:13 am

The birth control we use today such as birth control pills and condoms did not just come to be as they are today. In fact, there were many ridiculous failed attempts at birth control before they came up with something decent. These contraceptive prototypes may seem moronic now, but at one point people actually believed they worked.

7. Hot Mercury

In ancient China, women drank hot mercury the day after sex in order to prevent pregnancy. Mercury – The poisonous element inside thermometers that is deadly and can cause immediate toxic effects and can destroy all of the human body systems if it gets into the blood stream. Bad idea. You’d be better off committing suicide.

6. Sea Sponge

In Ancient Persia, women used sea sponges soaked in vinegar or alcohol and inserted them into the vagina to inhibit sperm from entering the uterus. This is a horrible method because not only does it require the extraction of a helpful ecological sea-organism from its environment, but it can cause some serious damage to vaginal walls when soaked in a substance like alcohol or vinegar. In addition, a sea sponge will act as a filter, so it’s probably not a good idea to rely on it for contraception.

5. Rocks?

This method is just outrageous. In Egypt, they used to insert rocks into the uterus to irritate the uterine walls preventing a fertilized egg from attaching to the uterus. (A prototype of todays intrauterine systems) Why is this so outrageous? Because not only does it cause severe irritation to the uterus, but bacteria on the rocks could spread throughout the inside of the uterus causing severe problems and possibly death. Don’t try this at home.

After they realized the serious side effects of the rock method, women tried using apricot seeds in the same way. Needless to say, it was also a failed method.

4. Plugs

No, not hair plugs – vaginal plugs… made of wood. Yes. It is true, there were many women in the 19th century who tried using a plug-shaped stopper made of wood to block sperm from reaching the uterus. It was a tragic fail. There is nothing else to say about this one but nice try – now what do we do about the splinters?

3. Herbs

Many civilizations believed that the right herbs could heal or prevent almost ANYTHING – including pregnancy. Herbs called “emmenagogue” were plants that could stimulate menstruation in females, so they would take these herbs as a form as contraceptive. What they didn’t know is that pregnancy is still possible during menstruation so many of them probably got themselves pregnant with this attempted method.

Although those methods are idiotic and irrational, and we all know that no one would ever try them in modern times, there are still some modern failed birth control attempts out there that couples are trying, only to find themselves with a baby 9 months later.

2. Flushing

There are couples out there who are using things like Lysol and carbonated drinks after sex to “flush out” and kill the sperm in the vagina. There are several reasons why this is a fail. Even if you flush out the sperm in the vagina, it does not affect the sperm that was ejaculated immediately into the uterus through the cervix. Those guys are long gone and out of reach. In addition, putting any acidic or sugary foreign substance in the vagina is a bad idea. The skin and flesh there is very sensitive and will most likely result in infection, irritation, or a yeast infection.

1. Homemade condom

Yes – it is exactly what it sounds like. This is by far the stupidest idea ever thought of. I can’t even process this idea without asking myself “why would anyone in their right mind do such a thing??”. There are many couples out there who are making their own condoms with plastic materials like plastic bags, saran wrap, or used chip bags. Not only are these materials prone to break with enough force, but using them as a condom is unsanitary and uncivilized. Bacteria can spread from these items to the vagina causing discomfort and irritation. They will not hold up during intercourse and probably rip – making them useless as contraception. The chip bag method is the worst idea because of its rough sharp texture that will cut the walls of the vagina causing bleeding. I beg you – please do not do this. The common sense of civilization will quickly diminish if you do.

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June 17, 2009

Pregnancy Prevention in Adolescents

Filed under: Uncategorized, birth control, pregnancy in adolescents, pregnancy prevention, teen pregnancy, young pregancy — John @ 3:07 pm

A study was conducted with its purpose to identify new ways to increase the impact of pregnancy prevention interventions on the number of children born to adolescents. Teen pregnancies are a big issue today with 53 births per 1,000 women aged 15-19 in the United States, in 2002, but many wonder why. The tools to successfully prevent pregnancy are all there, but many adolescents do not utilize these tools.

The study used a racially/ethnically diverse group of 1,568, pregnant 13-18 year olds. The pregnant teens were asked to explain why they had not used contraception at the time of conception. The most common category received was that they were “not ready to prevent pregnancy.” Now the bigger question arises, “why are so many teenage women not ready to prevent pregnancy?”

The answer could possibly be a lack of education into the possible consequences of having unprotected sexual intercourse. Many school systems teach the children about STI’s (STD’s) and the risk that the teen could become pregnant. Additionally, contraception methods are discussed, so sexual education is unlikely to be the reason.

The types of birth control methods may not be convenient enough. However, this seems highly unlikely. Why? A condom only takes a few seconds to take out of the packaging and to apply. However, the birth control pill, an oral contraceptive for women, is even more convenient. It only requires the woman to swallow a single pill daily, hardly a difficult task.

The study came to the conclusion that the best way to promote pregnancy prevention in adolescents is to shift the focus entirely on the teen and to help young women develop goals that would be threatened if they were to become pregnant.

“The most expedient way to strengthen the impact of pregnancy prevention programs on adolescent childbearing is to shift the focus of intervention from overcoming logistical barriers and misperceptions about the need for contraception, to helping young women develop goals that make adolescent childbearing a threat to what they want in life. This means intervening actively enough to ensure that goal setting translates into an internal desire to postpone childbearing beyond adolescence.” - Excerpt from Reasons for Ineffective Contraceptive Use Antedating Adolescent Pregnancies Part 1: An Indicator of Gaps in Family Planning Services

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June 16, 2009

Totally Untrue Rumors about Birth Control

Filed under: Birth Control Pill, Uncategorized, birth control, birth control pills, condom, condoms — Amanda @ 3:21 pm

1. Birth control pills will make me fat!

Why it’s a lie – The pill has been given an unreasonable reputation. Despite what you may have heard from friends and colleagues, birth control does NOT contribute to weight gain.

Although some women seem to gain weight while taking the pill, researchers have shown that it isn’t actually due to pill use. The estrogen in the pill may cause some women to feel boated for the first few weeks, but this symptom usually goes away. The progestin in the pill may cause changes in appetite, but it’s nothing that you can’t resist. Finally, it has been studied that women tend to begin taking the pill during a point in time that just happens to overlap with lifestyle changes, including diet and weight changes.

2. The pill will increase my risk of cancer

Why it’s a lie – Okay – first of all, birth control pills have never been conclusively linked to cancer. Only the most recent research suggests that the pill has VERY little, if any, risk of development in breast cancer in women, and taking estrogen before menopause does not predispose women to breast cancer.

Actually, according to Planned Parenthood, if you use the pill you are 1/3 less likely to develop ovarian or uterine cancer than those who are not on the pill. Even better, your protection against these cancers will increase as you continue to use the pill, and can protect you for up to 30 years after you stop taking the pill. Some doctors even advise their patients (especially those with a family history of ovarian cancer) to take the pill for at least 5 years to prevent ovarian and uterine cancer!

3. I won’t get pregnant if I’m having my period

Why it’s a lie – Okay, so you may be LESS likely to get pregnant during your period, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get pregnant from the same sperm a few days later. Believe it or not, sperm can live in a woman’s uterus for up to three days. So, if you happen to be ovulating (like 70 % of women) either during, or after your period, you can become pregnant. If you are like the other 30% of women who ovulate between days 10 and 17 of their menstrual cycle, it is less likely… however ovulation in women can change, and it is not something you should bet on.

4. The pill is only good for contraception

Why it’s a lie – Although the pill is a great method of contraception with a 99% efficiency rate (upon perfect use), it also provides its users health benefits. Some examples of this are:

- More regular, lighter periods
- Reduced menstrual cramps
- Minimizing symptoms of PMS
- Protection against ovarian cysts and cancer
- Prevention of acne
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Excess body and facial hair
- Migraines
- Reduced risk of anemia

5. I can’t get pregnant or get STI’s if I use condoms

Why it’s not true – even though condoms are the best defense against STI’s (next to abstinence) they are not 100% foolproof. If they are applied properly, they are 99% efficient. If they are applied incorrectly they can be wayyy less efficient. When applied incorrectly, they can break and decrease in efficiency. In addition, if the condom does fit properly, it could slide off thus being much less effective.

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May 13, 2009

New Male Contraceptive as Reliable as Condoms

Filed under: Uncategorized, birth control, contraceptive, male contraceptive — John @ 5:31 pm

Though condoms are said to be roughly 98 percent effective if used properly and consistently, many men know that things can go wrong, and the condom may fail. Be this by breaking or the condom slipping off, the effectiveness in the “real world” isn’t as high as many manufacturers would have you believe. Some men try to use the “withdrawal” tactic, where the man attempt to pull out before ejaculating. This is one of those things that you should NOT do. Additionally, there is the option for the man to have a vasectomy, but many men can’t bring themselves to “take the plunge” so to speak.

However, now there may be another option for men that would allow them to take on part of the responsibilities of birth control. Chinese researches tested a male contraceptive shot, which is injected monthly into the buttocks. The contraceptive, which is a form of testosterone, temporarily blocks sperm production. The study found that the contraceptive was 99 percent effective, and only had a failure rate of only 1.1 per 100 men.

Additionally, the contraceptive shot is convenient. The shot is administered once a month, but then saves the awkward, last minute fumbling in the dark trying to find and put on a condom. Males and females alike can definitely appreciate this.

The best thing about the shot may be the fact that it is only a temporary birth control and after 6 months of stopping injections, all but two of the 1045 men tested

had their reproductive function return to normal range.

The most difficult obstacle to pass for men is trying to get their significant other to trust them to have their shot. Even though many men are very willing to take this contraceptive shot, many women are doubtful that these men will be motivated enough to go and receive a shot every month. Either way, you may need to wait some time for this new form of birth control to hit the market, due to the need for long-term testing. When this product finally does emerge onto the open market it will be interesting to see what the response is.

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April 30, 2009

Birth Control reduces risk of Cancer in Women

Filed under: Uncategorized, birth control, brad pitt, cancer, ovarian cancer — Amanda @ 3:44 pm

According to a “source”, Brad Pitt does not believe in using birth control pills however, it’s known the birth control pill can be up to 99% effective in preventing fertility in women, and it’s benefits extend beyond that.

Women who regularly use oral contraceptives are less likely to develop ovarian cancer – a cancerous growth that arises on an ovary which can lead to death. These women have reduced their possibility of developing ovarian cancer by up to 50%. According to a study in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute (Vol. 94, No. 1: 32-38), a hormone found in birth control called progestin causes the process of cell death apoptosis, which aids in the bodies removal of damaged cells that could develop into cancer.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer says that worldwide, there are more than 190,000 cases of ovarian cancer each year. On the contrary, 200,000 women have been prevented from developing it and 100,000 have been prevented from death due to ovarian cancer. In 2008 in the US alone, there were over 21,000 cases of ovarian cancer, and about 15,000 deaths.

Birth control’s protection against ovarian cancer doesn’t only take place while the pill is being consumed, but it protects its user for many years after. Doctors have known that women who take the pill for three years or more reduce their likelihood of developing ovarian cancer by up to 50% before the age of 75.

Although most women take birth control pills as a contraceptive, its long term benefits broaden beyond that. More importantly, the birth control pill is a long term defense against the fatality of ovarian cancer

Birth Control Buzz is a service company that provides birth control prices, types of birth control(prescription required), health administrative services, and birth control statistics predominantly to US patients seeking to purchase pharmaceuticals on-line.
For more information, call 1-866-868-8850 or visit http://www.birthcontrolbuzz.com/.

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December 18, 2008

Birth control and its side effects

Filed under: Birth Control Side Effects, Uncategorized, androgen, birth control, estrogen, progestin, side effects — Janine @ 3:30 pm

If you are experiencing side effects from a birth control pill that you are not comfortable with, learning about the effects of estrogen and progestin in birth control pills can help you choose which is the best birth control pill for you. Oral contraceptives contain estrogen and progestin.

What is Progestin?

Progestin is a man made substance with similar properties as the natural progesterone developed in woman’s body. It stimulates progesterone receptors, preventing ovulation and lessens menstrual bleeding.

What is Androgen?

Androgen refers to the likelihood of progestin causing unpleasant side effects. When Progestins have high androgenic activity, chances of androgenic related side effects (such as acne and hirsutism-unwanted female hair growth) may increase. Progestins with low androgenic activity may have minor or no effect on carbohydrate metabolism (breaking down and creating sugars in small quantities for the body to produce energy).

What is Estrogen?

Estrogen is the main sex hormone in women, essential to the menstrual cycle. It consists of estrone, estradiol, and estriol. Estrogen works in two ways; it regulates the menstrual cycle and prepares the uterus for pregnancy by enriching and thickening the endometrium. The more estrogen there is in a woman body, the least amount of side effects your body will experience from progestin.

What are the birth control side effects and their Progestin/Estrogen levels?

Below is a general guideline of Birth Control side effects; it may not apply to every woman.

Absent period or too light menstrual flow-High estrogen,Low progestin potency

Types of birth control brands that will minimize the side effect: Brevicon

Acne-High estrogen,low androgen potency

Types of birth control brands that will minimize the side effect: Brevicon, Mircette, Ortho Tri-Cyclen, Yasmin

Breast Soreness-Low estrogen, low progestin potency

Types of birth control brands that will minimize the side effect: Alesse

Depression-Low progestin potency

Types of birth control brands that will minimize the side effect: Alesse, Brevicon, Ortho Tri-Cyclen

Endometriosis or Endometriosis Prevention (Growth outside the uterus)-Low estrogen, higher progestin potency, higher androgen potency

Types of birth control brands that will minimize the side effect: Levora, Loestrin 1.5/30, Loestrin 1/20 Fe, Nordette.

Headaches (not menstrual migraines)-Low estrogen, low prgestin potency

Types of birth control brands that will minimize the side effect: Alesse, Brevicon, Ortho Tri-Cyclen

Moodiness or Irritability-Low progestin potency

Types of birth control brands that will minimize the side effect: Alesse, Loestrin 1/20 Fe, Yasmin

Severe Menstrual Cramps-High progestin potency

Types of birth control brands that will minimize the side effect: Mircette, Loestrin 1.5/30, Yasmin

Spotting (Break through bleeding)-High estrogen, high porgestin potency, low androgen potency

Types of birth control brands that will minimize the side effect: Yasmin

Weight Gain-Low estrogen, low progestin potency

Types of birth control brands that will minimize the side effect: Alesse, Loestrin 1/20 Fe, Yasmin

Birth Control Buzz is a service company that provides birth control prices, types of birth control (prescription required), health administrative services, and birth control statistics predominantly to US patients seeking to purchase pharmaceuticals on-line.

For more information, call 1-866-868-8850 or visit http://www.birthcontrolbuzz.com/.

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December 15, 2008

Birth Control and Bleeding

Filed under: Uncategorized, birth control, birth control pills, bleeding, breakthrough bleeding, spotting — Janine @ 11:18 am

Are you still bleeding or experiencing spotting while on the pill? If this is the first time you started using birth control pills, it is normal for new users to bleed during the first three months while on the pill. If you continue to bleed while on the pill, speak with your doctor to see if you should come off the pill for a week or a month for withdrawal bleeding. Once you get back on the pill, there should not be anymore bleeding or spotting.

Bleeding or spotting while you are currently using birth control pills is known is breakthrough bleeding. If you are still bleeding or spotting, try switching to a different pill. Let your doctor know that you are still bleeding and he/she will recommend you a higher strength birth control pill. Bleeding or spotting usually indicates that your pills are not as effective as they should be (additional methods of birth control when you are bleeding or spotting are recommended). Spotting is also a symptom of a sexually transmitted disease known as Chlamydia. Contact your doctor if you think you are at risk for an STD.

Can I be pregnant if I missed more than one or two pills a month?

If you have no bleeding in between pills, you may be pregnant and should see your doctor for a pregnancy test (or use a home pregnancy test). If you have a light period, you are most likely not pregnant. Just to be sure, you can take a home pregnancy test for reassurance.

What does it mean if I am bleeding after sex and am on the pill?

If you are bleeding after sex, check with your doctor immediately. Vaginal bleeding after sex can indicate the following:

Cervical Dysplasia (precancerous changes of the epithelial cells that line the cervix)
Chlamydia (bacterial infection transmitted through sexual activity or contact with semen, vaginal fluid, or blood)
Gonorrhea (an STD caused by bacteria. Pharmaceutical treatments available)
Vaginitis/Cervicitis (inflammation, swelling, and/or infection of the vagina or cervix)
Cervical Polyps (smooth, red or purple, finger-like growths grown from mucus layer of the cervix or the cervical canal)
Trichomoniasis (STD caused by protozoan)
Vaginal Yeast Infection (overgrowth of the normal fungi in the vaginal area)
Endometritis (inflammation of the endometrium)
Adenomyosis (when an endometrial tissue attaches itself to the uterus, or another organ, and grows outside of the uterus)
Uterine Polyps (overgrowth of the endometrium causing protrusions into the uterus)
Fibroid Tumors (a benign tumor)

Birth Control Buzz is a service company that provides birth control prices, types of birth control (prescription required), health administrative services, and birth control statistics predominantly to US patients seeking to purchase pharmaceuticals on-line.

For more information, call 1-866-868-8850 or visit http://www.birthcontrolbuzz.com/.

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December 5, 2008

Alesse

Filed under: Alesse, Alesse birth control, Uncategorized, birth control — Janine @ 9:14 am

Alesse is a birth control pill used to prevent pregnancy. The ingredients in this medication prevents the release of an egg from an ovary (ovulation), causing changes in the mucus of the cervix to decrease the chances of the sperm entering and for an egg to be planted. This medication can also regulate the menstrual cycle and it may be used to treat acne in women 14 years of age or older.

Do not use Alesse if you are pregnant, allergic to the ingredients of Alesse, and has undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding. Ask your doctor for more information before you start using Alesse.

What are the side effects?

More common:

abdominal cramping or bloating
acne
breast pain, tenderness, or swelling
dizziness
nausea
swelling of the ankles and feet
unusual tiredness or weakness
vomiting

Less common:

brown, blotchy spots on exposed skin
gain or loss of body or facial hair
increased or decreased interest in sexual activity
increased sensitivity of skin to sunlight
weight gain or loss

When should I take Alesse?

Take one tablet daily, approximately the same time every day. It is preferred to take the pill after the evening meal or before you sleep. Continue to take the pill as advised, even if you start feeling sick because it usually goes away. If not, consult your doctor.

If you are vomiting, having diarrhea, or are taking medication (for example antibiotics), the pills will reduce its effectiveness. Be sure to ask your doctor if the medication you are currently taking or will be taking will decrease the effectiveness of the pill.

What happens if I miss a pill?

If you miss one pill, take it as soon as possible, and then take the next pill at the usual time. Missing pills at any time increases the risk of becoming pregnant.

Birth Control Buzz is a service company that provides birth control prices, types of birth control (prescription required), health administrative services, and birth control statistics predominantly to US patients seeking to purchase pharmaceuticals on-line.

For more information, call 1-866-868-8850 or visit http://www.birthcontrolbuzz.com/

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December 4, 2008

Will you gain weight from taking birth control pills?

Filed under: Loestrin 24, Uncategorized, birth control, birth control pills, insulin resistance, weight gain — Janine @ 1:51 pm

Weight gain is a common side effect for all hormonal methods of birth control. Women under the pill usually have an increase in appetite and have easier fat depositions. This is due to the increase in hormones. How much a woman will gain tends to vary. On average, women using the birth control pill gain approximately 10 lbs during the first year of use. Some women may gain more while others may not gain any weight at all. A lot of women who stopped using any hormonal birth control find that the weight comes off easily.

What can I do to prevent unwanted weight gain?

Try other types of birth control. If you want to stay with the birth control pill you are currently using, being more aware of your diet and exercising lifestyle can also help prevent unwanted weight gain.

If both methods were unsuccessful, ask your healthcare provider if insulin resistance is a factor to your problem. This condition can be confirmed in a blood test. If you are diagnosed with insulin resistance, stabilize your weight with a low carbohydrate diet.

Birth Control Buzz is a service company that provides birth control prices, types of birth control (prescription required), health administrative services, and birth control statistics predominantly to US patients seeking to purchase pharmaceuticals on-line.

For more information, call 1-866-868-8850 or visit http://www.birthcontrolbuzz.com/.

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August 28, 2007

NuvaRing Side Effects

Filed under: Nuva Ring, NuvaRing, Uncategorized, birth control, side effects — Ashlynn @ 9:41 am

NuvaRing side effects including blood clots, stroke and heart attack have been reported by women using this relatively new form of birth control. Side effects of NuvaRing are associated with the hormone desogestrel which can cause changes in the blood clotting system allowing blood clots to form more easily. NuvaRing birth control was approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) on October 3, 2001 and first marketed in the United States in July 2002. Nuva Ring is used by approximately 1.5 million women worldwide.

NuvaRing is a flexible polyethylene vinyl acetate ring around 2 inches in diameter. Nuva Ring is considered a third generation combination hormonal contraceptive. It contains a combination of the hormones estrogen and etonogestrel which is a synthetic form of the progestin desogestrel. NuvaRing uses a different form of progestin compared to older contraceptives. Third generation contraceptives containing desogestrel have recently come under fire due to the increased risk of blood clots (venous thrombosis). The newer progestins (desogestrel) in third generation contraceptives were intended to lessen the adverse effects caused by older contraceptives such as hirsutism, weight gain, and acne.

Combination hormonal contraceptives contain both estrogen and progestins. NuvaRing contains the progestin desogestrel which, according to studies going back to 1995, doubles the risk of blood clots compared to second generation oral contraceptives. Organon, the manufacturer of NuvaRing is aware of the increased risk of blood clots associated with third generation oral contraceptives. The NuvaRing warning label states:

The hormones in NuvaRing® may cause changes in your bloodclotting system which may allow your blood to clot more easily. If blood clots form in your legs, they can travel to the lungs and cause a sudden blockage of a vessel carrying blood to the lungs. Rarely, clots occur in the blood vessels of the eye and may cause blindness, double vision, or other vision problems. The risk of getting blood clots may be greater with the type of progestin in NuvaRing® than with some other progestins in certain low-dose birth control pills. It is unknown if the risk of blood clots is different with NuvaRing® use than with the use of certain birth control pills.

The side effects of Nuva Ring can increase depending on several risk factors. Increased risk factors include: women over age 35, smoking more than 15 cigarettes a day, diabetes, and high levels of blood cholesterol or fat. Warning signs of potentially more serious NuvaRing side effects include:

sharp chest pain, coughing blood, or sudden shortness of breath (possible clot in the lung)
pain in the calf (back of lower leg – possible clot in the leg)
crushing chest pain or heaviness in the chest (possible heart attack)
sudden severe headache or vomiting, dizziness, or fainting, problems with vision or speech, weakness, or numbness in an arm or leg (possible stroke)
sudden partial or complete loss of vision (possible clot in the eye)

Currently there are no non-industry sponsored studies showing that third generation contraceptives such as NuvaRing are more effective when compared to second generation contraceptives especially given the increased risk of blood clots associated with desogestrel.

Birth Control Buzz is a service company that provides birth control prices, birth control types (prescription required), health administrative services, and birth control statistics predominantly to US patients seeking to purchase birth control on-line.

For more information on birth control, call 1-866-868-8850 or visit http://www.birthcontrolbuzz.com/.

About the Author
Steve Fields – To learn more about NuvaRing side effects please visit our website. We work with NuvaRing attorneys representing clients throughout the United States.

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June 15, 2007

Are men getting their own birth control pill?

Filed under: Uncategorized, birth control, birth control pills, male birth control pill, progesterone, testosterone, the pill for men — Ashlynn @ 9:52 am

Primarily men have two options when it comes to birth control: using a condom or getting a vasectomy. Some men complain about lack of sensation while using a condom during intercourse, and for others having the surgery isn’t exactly on the top of their “to do” list (not to mention the second surgical procedure required if they decide they want to reverse it).

But not all is lost. According to the latest research a male birth control pill may be on the market soon, allowing men to take a more progressive role in contraception use.

So what took so long? One reason is the utter lack of interest (and funding) from the pharmaceutical companies. This lack of funding has made it hard to entice talent to the field: In total, there are only about 10 specialists in male contraception in this country. The other (more obvious) reason is that men and women’s bodies are, well, different.

Birth control pills for women contain synthetic forms of estrogen and progesterone, which prevent the ovaries every month from releasing an egg for fertilization. But, and you knew there was going to be a “but”, instead of releasing just one egg during monthly ovulation, men release about 120 million sperm with each ejaculation which in turn makes it more difficult to control.

So how will the male pill work you ask? Well it’s all about that uber-macho hormone testosterone, which is responsible for sperm production in the testes, hair growth, muscle mass and sexual characteristics. If a man is given extra testosterone it could shut down sperm production. Normally, at the start of the sperm-production cycle, the hypothalamus in the brain releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which triggers the release of fertility hormones called gonadotropins (FSH and ICSH) from the pituitary gland. ICSH signals the testes to produce testosterone, and FSH and testosterone tell the testes to produce sperm. When sperm production is complete, the testes release testosterone and a hormone called inhibin into the body, which tells the brain that there’s enough sperm. This stops the release of sperm-producing hormones.

Sounds great? Well just like female birth control pills there can be unwanted side effects. The problem is that by giving a man the amount of testosterone necessary to suppress sperm production, it can also cause acne, weight gain, prostate-gland growth and abnormal liver function.

That’s why scientists are also looking at a combination pill of testosterone and another hormone, progesterone (also found in female birth control pills). In men, progesterone inhibits sperm production in the testes. The drawback is that it can also affect those two things so intrinsic to the male psyche: their sexuality and sexual characteristics. To counteract the effects of progesterone injections of testosterone must also be administered to maintain those vital characteristics.

There is only one burning question, will men take it? According to a survey of 2,000 men in Capetown, Edinburgh, Shanghai, and Hong Kong, 67% were interested in some form of hormonal birth control. It also showed that men were ready to take on more responsibility for contraception usage and took into account their partner’s needs.

Researchers estimate that a male type of birth control should be available in about five years, but it will most likely be in the form of an injection or implant. As for a male birth control pill, the future is a little cloudy.

BirthControlBuzz is a service company that provides birth control prices, birth control types (prescription required), health administrative services, and birth control statistics predominantly to US patients seeking to purchase birth control on-line. For more information on types of birth control call 1-866-868-8850 or visit http://www.birthcontrolbuzz.com/.

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April 28, 2007

Ortho Evra Patch Side Effects

Filed under: Uncategorized, birth control, birth control prices, birth control statistics, birth control types, estrogen, ortho evra, patch, progesterone, side effects — Ashlynn @ 7:18 am

Ortho Evra is a small, thin patch that is placed on the skin. The patch releases small amounts of estrogen and progesterone which is absorbed through the skin. By releasing these hormones Ortho Evra suppresses ovulation, thickens cervical mucus, and thins the uterine lining, which combined can prevent pregnancy. It is 99% effective and very convenient to use.

Side effects of Ortho Evra

Minor side effects that usually go away within the first 3 months of use include:

nausea
breast tenderness
weight gain or loss
water retention
increased blood pressure
mood changes
headaches
skin irritation (near the Patch)

Serious risks, which can be life threatening, include:

blood clots
stroke
heart attacks
a increased risk of breast cancer

Cigarette smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects, especially if you are over 35. Women who use the Patch are strongly advised not to smoke. Some women should not use the Patch, including women who have blood clots, certain cancers, a history of heart attack or stroke, as well as those who are or may be pregnant. Ortho Evra will not protect against sexually transmitted diseases or HIV/AIDS.

BirthControlBuzz is a service company that provides birth control prices, birth control types (prescription required), health administrative services, and birth control statistics predominantly to US patients seeking to purchase birth control on-line.

For more information on types of birth control call 1-866-868-8850 or visit http://www.birthcontrolbuzz.com/.

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April 21, 2007

Emergency Contraception…..

Filed under: EC, Uncategorized, birth control, contraceptive, emergency contraception, morning after pill, plan b, sexually transmitted diseases, unprotected sex — Ashlynn @ 8:30 am

Emergency Contraception Does Not Reduce Unintended Pregnancy Rate

By Taunya English, Associate Editor, April 17, 2007
Health Behavior News Service

The “morning after pill” may be a good option for individual women in crisis, but advance access to emergency contraception is no antidote for the national problem of unintended pregnancy.

Contrary to the fears of critics, the presence of Plan B does not provoke riskier sexual behavior.

According to a new review of studies, women who received an advance supply of birth control pills for emergency contraception had an equal chance of becoming pregnant as women who did not have early access to the pills.

The review draws conclusions from eight studies of more than 6,000 women in the United States, India and China.

Plan B is a well-known brand of emergency contraception pills, but many different types of birth control medication taken at higher doses can prevent pregnancy after sex. Treatment must begin within five days after unprotected sex – and sooner is better when it comes to EC.

“We had expected that easier access to emergency contraception could help women use the pills more quickly when they needed them, and that in turn – since EC is a time-relevant medication – this could help women avoid unintended pregnancy,” said lead reviewer Chelsea Polis.

“Our review is really about the effectiveness of advance provision as a strategy to reduce unintended pregnancy at a population level,” Polis said. “The review is not about the effectiveness of EC; that is a separate matter.”

The review appears in the current issue of The Cochrane Library, a publication of The Cochrane Collaboration, an international organization that evaluates research in all aspects of health care. Systematic reviews draw evidence-based conclusions about medical practice after considering both the content and quality of existing trials on a topic.M

In 2001, about half of pregnancies in the United States were unintended, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Now, the United States is working to lower the unintended pregnancy rate to 30 percent by 2010.

Princeton University demographer James Trussell says easier access to emergency contraception will not slow the rate of unintended pregnancy in the United States.

“For individual women, it is definitely a last chance to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. But it is not going to have a major population impact because people will never use it enough,” he said.

The review found that emergency contraception use was higher among women given an advance supply of the birth control pills, but that increase in use did not translate to a drop in the pregnancy rate.

“Even though advance provision increased use, we don’t know if women were using EC at the times when they were at risk for pregnancy, when it was really needed,” Polis explains.

“If women aren’t going to use Plan B when they are given it for free in a clinical trial and are counseled beforehand about using it every single time they have unprotected sex, then having to go to CVS and having to pay $45 each time – it isn’t going to happen,” Trussell said.

Nonetheless, Polis said her review is not an argument against easier access to emergency contraception.

“Women deserve the chance to protect themselves from unintended pregnancy and EC is a safe, effective way to do that. Emergencies like rape, contraceptive failure and unprotected sex occur, and easier access to EC eliminates a medically unwarranted barrier to taking emergency contraception within the recommended timeframe,” she said. “So steps like making EC available over the counter are still incredibly important.”

When advanced access to emergency contraception was first proposed, critics worried that a medicine cabinet stocked with pills to prevent pregnancy would lead some women to be more promiscuous, have riskier sex or not use condoms.

The Cochrane review counters those concerns.

“We found there was absolutely no difference in sexually transmitted infection rates between the two groups. There’s absolutely no difference in terms of unprotected sex, condom use or changes in use of other contraceptive methods,” Polis said. “So it appears that advance provision of EC has no harmful effects in terms of risky sexual behaviors.”

Polis CB, et al. Advance provision of emergency contraception for pregnancy
prevention. (Review). Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2007, Issue 2.

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March 30, 2007

Birth control pill side effects.

Filed under: Uncategorized, birth control, birth control pills, birth control prices, birth control types, breast cancer, menstrual periods, period, pregnancy, side effects — Ashlynn @ 8:54 am

Aside from its almost l00% effectiveness in preventing pregnancy, taking the Pill may also lead to less menstrual flow and cramping, a lower risk of infection of the uterus and ovaries, a decreased chance of developing ovarian cysts and non-cancerous breast cysts and tumors, less ovarian cancer and uterine cancer, less rheumatoid arthritis, and it may improve acne.

During the first three months of use about 40% of women who take birth control pills will have side effects of one kind or another. The vast majority of women have only minor, transient side effects. Some of these side effects are: light bleeding between menstrual periods, skipped periods, nausea, weight change, bloating, increase in vaginal infections. Although it is difficult to predict whether a woman will develop one of these minor problems, a problem can often be eliminated by changing your birth control pill.

Blood clots, stroke and heart attacks are the most serious side effects associated with birth control pills. These problems occur in only a small number of women who take the pill. Women who smoke, are over 35, have diabetes, high blood pressure, heart or vascular disease or blood cholesterol and triglyceride abnormalites have the most risk of developing these problems. Other serious side effects are worsening of migraine headaches, gall bladder disease, increase in blood pressure and an extremely rare liver tumor. Some birth control pills may cause changes in the levels of fatty substances in the blood. The long-term consequences of these changes are not known. Regular visits to your doctor are important for early detection of these health risks.

Certain drugs for epilepsy and tuberculosis, as well as certain antibiotics can reduce the effectiveness of your birth control pill. St. John’s Wort has also been known to reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives. You should always ask your doctor about any possible effect on birth control effectiveness when another drug is prescribed.

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March 22, 2007

Femcon Fe chewable birth control pill.

Filed under: Uncategorized, birth control, birth control pills, birth control prices, birth control types, breast cancer, estrogen, femcon fe, hormones, pregnancy, pregnant, progestin — Ashlynn @ 8:27 am

Femcon Fe is a spearmint-flavored birth control pill that can be swallowed or chewed. It combines 2 different hormones – progestin and estrogen. Together, these 2 hormones suppress ovulation and other related changes your body goes through. That means an egg is not released from your ovary and therefore cannot be fertilized by sperm. Birth control pills also thicken your cervical mucus (making it difficult for sperm to enter the uterus) and change the lining of your uterus (making it difficult for a fertilized egg to implant itself in the uterine wall).

Using Femcon Fe, or other oral contraceptives, is one of the most effective methods of birth control available. If taken correctly on a daily basis, birth control pills are as much as 99% effective in preventing pregnancy, meaning there is still a 1% chance that you could get pregnant.

What are some advantages to using Femcon Fe?

Chewability – Femcon Fe is the only oral contraceptive to offer chewability. Perfect for women who have difficulty swallowing even the tiniest pill.
Cycle control – There is low incidence of spotting or bleeding between periods.
Low-dose – Most available birth control pills contain the same type of estrogen as Femcon Fe but in different amounts. Femcon Fe is considered a low-dose pill because it contains 35 micrograms (mcg) of estrogen.
Menstrual relief – Femcon Fe can help reduce menstrual cramps, regulate irregular periods, and lighten menstrual flow.

Does Femcon Fe offer any health benefits?

Your menstrual cycles may become more regular.
Blood flow during your period may be lighter and less iron may be lost.
Pain or other symptoms, like menstrual cramps, may decrease.
Lesser chance of ovarian cysts occuring.
Ectopic pregnancy may occur less frequently.
Noncancerous cysts or lumps in the breast may occur less often.
Lesser chance of acute pelvic inflammatory disease occuring.
Using birth control pills may provide some protection against developing two forms of cancer: cancer of the ovaries and cancer of the lining of the uterus.

Does Femcon Fe have any side effects?

Birth control pill side effects are generally not serious. The most common side effects include breast tenderness, nausea, vomiting, and spotting or bleeding between periods. These side effects often go away within the first 3 months. While more serious side effects occur infrequently, some medical conditions have been associated with Pill use, including:

Blood clots, blockage of blood vessels
Gallbladder disease
Liver tumors (extremely rare)
High blood pressure, which returns to normal when you stop taking the Pill

Is there anything else I should know about Femcon Fe?

Cigarette smoking while using the Pill increases the risk of serious adverse effects on the heart and blood vessels. This risk increases if you are a heavy smoker (15 or more cigarettes a day) and with age (especially if you are over 35). Women who use birth control should not smoke.

You should not take the Pill if you have or have had blood clots, certain cancers, a history of heart attack or stroke, or are pregnant.

Femcon Fe does not protect against HIV/AIDS or sexually transmitted diseases. Always use a nonhormonal backup contraceptive like a condom for extra protection.

Missing a pill or taking a pill a few hours later than normal can decrease the effectiveness. Certain medications like antibiotics are also known to increase the chance of your birth control pill failing.

BirthControlBuzz is a service company that provides birth control prices, birth control types (prescription required), health administrative services, and birth control statistics predominantly to US patients seeking to purchase birth control on-line.

For more information call 1-866-868-8850 or visit http://www.birthcontrolbuzz.com/.

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