What are the most recent developments in birth control? You know the most common methods of birth control are still out there condoms, the birth control pill and abstinence. However, there have been a lot of changes in the past few years and there are a lot of different options out there that you may not even be familiar with. So, if you are considering going back on birth control or are looking into changing to a more modern alternative, then have a look at what the medical world has been cooking up:

The New Age Birth Control Pill

The birth control pill has been around since the 60’s, but soon a new type of pill will be released in Australia called Seasonale that not only prevents pregnancy but also prevents periods as well. Seasonale is an extended birth control pill that allows you to only have four periods a year. If you suffer from painful menstruation, then this could be the answer you are looking for. However, Seasonale does come with the same side effects as other oral contraceptives including an increased risk of blood clotting and weight gain. You may also experience break through bleeding and a higher exposure to hormones in the drug.

The Permanent Birth Control Method

If you and your hubby are done with the baby making business but don’t want to go down the traditional tubes tying or snip snip methods, then you can look into Essure. Essure is a nonsurgical way to prevent pregnancy. It is a flexible device called a micro insert that is inserted into the fallopian tubes to block fertilization from sperm. You can expect some discomfort but you will generally feel fine after a day or two. However, you may experience light bleeding and studies have only proven its effectiveness for up to three years as it is relatively new. Furthermore, there is a one in seven chance that the procedure may not be effective.

The Easy Option Diaphragm

The diaphragm or cervical cap is another popular form of birth control but can be hard to master. The Lea Shield is a newer version that is very user friendly and prevents sperm from entering your cervix. The shield can be inserted before sex and should be left in place for eight hours after. The Lea Shield comes with a loop to help with insertion and removal but it is fairly new and thus there are not a lot of conclusive results in terms of its effectiveness.

The Patch, the Ring and the Injection

Another option you have is the Ortho Evra Contraceptive Patch. You will wear the patch on your body for three weeks and then remove it for one week to allow for your menstrual period. If you hate the idea of swallowing a pill every day (and can’t seem to remember to do it) then this method of birth control offers a great alternative.

Or, you may be more comfortable with a Vaginal Ring in place, which will need to be inserted every month; however, you can do the procedure at home rather than at your doctor’s office. The vaginal ring, known as the NuvaRing, sits in the vagina and releases synthetic hormones to ‘trick’ your body in the same way oral contraceptive works.

You may prefer to go with an injection such as the Lunelle Injection, which requires you to visit a doctor every month for a shot. The good thing is that you only have to remember one doctor appointment each month rather than remember to take a pill every day but many busy mums have a hard time actually getting to the doctor’s office in between school drop offs, work, groceries and other errands.

For more information about these types of birth control, please speak to your GP or gynaecologist. Or try calling a health hotline for more information https://www.stayathomemum.com.au/my-kids/babies/important-hotlines-websites/