What is Hormonal Contraceptive System & What Are the Types

Currently, there are a range of contraceptive options available and the type that will work best for you entirely depends on your circumstances and health. Also, if you engage in frequent coitus, the use of birth control might be inevitable for you.

Regardless, if you are looking for a guide to the hormonal contraceptive system, continue reading!

Among multiple contraceptive systems in India, barrier and hormonal contraceptives are undoubtedly the most widely used. However, in general, a hormonal contraceptive system is defined as a birth control system that uses hormones to prevent pregnancy.

This type of contraceptive contains either oestrogen and progesterone or only progesterone. Additionally, they block the release of eggs, thicken in mucus, and thin the uterus lining, which in unison, prevents the male gamete from reaching the egg.

1. Oral Pills

Oral pills are especially important as contraceptives, as you can use them even after conceiving. In India, these are widely available and cheap as well. These pills contain progestin and oestrogen, effectively blocking eggs from fertilisation.

Oral pills work with 95% effectiveness, but doctors don't usually recommend this. This is primarily because it might cause hormonal changes in the body that disturbs the menstrual cycle. However, apart from it, it could also cause physical changes in the body which are visible.

Advantages

A few of the advantages include the following:

• Easy to use
• Effective and Safe
• Easily available 

Disadvantages

Some disadvantages of oral pills include the following:

• It can harm if consumed regularly
• It should be consumed each time for the highest effectiveness
• It might harm the menstrual cycle

2. IUDs

IUDs, also known as Intrauterine devices, are one of the best methods of contraception available in non-hormonal and hormonal variations. In this regard, IUDs are weaved with hormones such as progestin, which can be used as emergency contraceptives. In addition, it can be used for approximately 8 to 15 years, depending upon the manufacturer and type. Regardless, these are affordable and easy to use, making them an effective option to avoid pregnancy.

Advantages

A few of the advantages include the following:

• It can stay up to 5 years
• No reminder is needed (such as while using a pill)
• Affordable

Disadvantages

Some disadvantages of IUDs include the following:

• Periods become heavier, painful and longer

3. Patches

Patches are some of the most prevalent hormonal contraceptives, which work by injecting hormones into the bloodstream. It can effectively prevent spur changes and ovulation in cervical mucus to avoid pregnancy.

Advantages

A few of the advantages include the following:

• Discreet and easy
• Effective and safe
• It may reduce menstrual cramps

Disadvantages

Some disadvantages of patches include the following:

• It can be visible 
• It may cause irritation, soreness and itchiness

4. Vaginal Rings

These rings are now becoming common in western countries that can be easily inserted and removed. Vaginal rings contain an amalgamation of oestrogen and progestin that prevents unwanted pregnancy. Moreover, 99% effective is appropriately used, and 91% is inserted late.

Advantages

A few of the advantages include the following:

• Easy to insert
• Effective and safe
• It may reduce menstrual cramps

Disadvantages

Some disadvantages of vaginal rings include the following:

• Many do not feel comfortable while removing or inserting it
• It can also increase vaginal discharge, mood changes and headaches

Hence, you can choose your contraceptive options based on this guide to the hormonal contraceptive system. Regardless, you must seek medical advice before choosing an option, especially if you have any medical complications.