Contraceptive Methods and Sexually Transmitted Infections

Contraceptive Methods

Rhythm Method

Observes the menstrual cycle to calculate the day of ovulation. Advantages: A natural method with no side effects. Disadvantages: Imprecise; not a barrier method and does not protect against STIs.

Body Temperature Method

Observes the basal body temperature in women to calculate the day of ovulation.

Male Condom

A plastic sleeve placed on the penis to stop sperm during ejaculation. Advantages: Very cheap, easy to find, and a barrier method. Disadvantages: 98% effectiveness; some people experience side effects.

Female Condom

A plastic sleeve placed inside the vagina to stop sperm during ejaculation. Advantages: Cheap and a barrier method. Disadvantages: 95% effectiveness; more difficult to find; potential side effects.

Cervical Cap

A rubber membrane placed over the cervix. Advantages: Cheap and easy to find. Disadvantages: 84% effectiveness; potential side effects; not a barrier method.

IUD (Intrauterine Device)

Contains a copper component and is placed in the uterus. Advantages: Cheap and long-lasting; no side effects. Disadvantages: 99% effectiveness; requires medical prescription and regular check-ups; not a barrier method.

Spermicide

Substances applied in the vagina to destroy sperm. Advantages: Easy to find; no medical prescription required. Disadvantages: 70-85% effectiveness; potential side effects; not a barrier method.

Ovulation Suppressors

Small doses of hormones given to women to prevent ovulation. Advantages: Controls the menstrual cycle. Disadvantages: 99% effectiveness; expensive; requires medical prescription and regular intake; potential side effects; not a barrier method.

Tubal Ligation

Fallopian tubes are blocked. Advantages: 100% effective; is reversible. Disadvantages: Requires surgical intervention; not a barrier method.

Vasectomy

Vas deferens are tied or cut.

Sexually Transmitted Infections

Syphilis

Bacteria: Treponema pallidum. Symptoms include red spots and sores. Treated with antibiotics; can lead to disorders in the nervous and circulatory systems.

Gonorrhea

Bacteria: Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Symptoms: Men (burning, pus), Women (pus). Treated with antibiotics; can cause blindness in newborns.

AIDS

Virus: HIV. Causes a decline in white blood cells. No cure, but progression can be slowed with antivirals.

Herpes Genitalis

Virus: HSV. Causes sores near the area where the virus enters the body. No cure; medicines help decrease symptoms.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Virus: HPV. Causes warts. Treated with medicines; can potentially lead to cancer.

Candidiasis

Fungus: Candida albicans. Symptoms include vaginal itching, pain during sexual intercourse, and painful urination. Treated with antifungal medicines.

Trichomoniasis

Parasite: Trichomonas vaginalis. Symptoms: Men (irritation inside the penis, burning, pus), Women (yellow secretion, discomfort during sex, pain, burning). Treated with antibiotics.