World Contraception Day
World Contraception Day is an international campaign day launched ten years ago by the European Society of Contraception (ESC). The ESC was concerned that the high number of unplanned teenage pregnancies and the rate at which young people were being infected with Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) because they were not taking steps to protect themselves during sex.
World Contraception Day has the support of 16 Non-Governmental Organisations, medical and scientific bodies and governmental organisations from around the world. The day aims to improve young people’s awareness of the various methods of contraception available to empower them so they can make an informed choice when it comes to their reproductive and sexual health.
Since it was founded in 2007, the Your Life campaign has encouraged young people around the globe to talk more openly about sex, contraception and protection against sexually transmitted diseases. The various educational and scientific events, which are held in over 70 countries, as well as online, have reached an estimated 110 million people.
In order to spread the message about safe sex, 10 World Contraception Day Ambassadors have been appointed as part of a 3-year project with Women Deliver, a leading global advocate for the health, rights and well-being of girls and women. These ambassadors are young people from around the world. Each ambassador will tell their own story so they can offer a unique perspective on what it means to be a young person seeking information about sexual health and reproduction in their local communities.
Unplanned pregnancies are a serious public health issue. It's estimated that 225 million women who would like to prevent pregnancy do not use an effective method of contraception.
To celebrate World Contraception Day, here is a quick guide to the various types of contraception, which are available.
Non-hormonal Contraception
Non-hormonal methods of contraception usually take the form of a barrier, which is placed between the sperm and the ova. The forms of non-hormonal contraception, which are currently available are:
- Condoms
- IUD coil
- Diaphragm
- Cervical cap
Hormonal Contraception
Hormonal contraception - commonly referred to as "the pill" alters the hormonal balance of the female body to suppress ovulation. There are two forms of hormonal contraception.
Progestogen-only Method
The progestogen-only pill causes the cervical mucus to thicken and prevents the ova from attaching itself to the lining of the uterus.
The Combined Method
The combined pill contains the hormones oestrogen and progestogen. While the progestogen thickens the cervical mucus, the oestrogen suppresses the release of the ova.
Hormonal Patches and Implants
If you do not want to worry about taking a pill every day, you may wish to opt for a hormonal patch or implant. Hormonal patches are applied to the skin once a week and have the same effect as oral contraceptives.
A birth control implant is a small plastic rod, which is implanted under the skin in your arm. The implant will slowly release hormones into your body to prevent you from becoming pregnant. Implants are a long-term solution, which can last up to 3 years.
It is important to remember that birth control methods will not protect you from sexually transmitted infections. The only effective protection against STI is to use a condom.
You can learn more about contraception and safe sex by visiting The Online Clinic.