Contraceptives are methods or devices used to prevent pregnancy by interfering with the process of fertilisation or implantation of the fertilised egg. Contraceptives were first invented by Gregory Pincus and John Rock, with help from the Planned Parenthood Federation of America in the 1950s which became publicly available in the 1960s. A wide range of contraceptive methods, including hormonal pills, intrauterine devices, and barrier techniques like condoms, are used to prevent unintended or undesired pregnancies. Beyond its main purpose of preventing conception, contraceptives often offer additional benefits, such as controlling menstrual cycles, easing the symptoms of illnesses like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), or even lowering the chance of developing specific cancers. The world of contraceptive options is not without its controversies and complexity, though, since the variety of contraceptive options can have varied dangers and adverse effects. Furthermore, while contraceptives can have major advantages for both men and women, it's crucial to understand that women are typically more likely than males to experience certain risks and adverse effects due to its use.

Women can pick from a variety of contraceptive methods, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Hormonal contraceptives, including birth control pills, patches, injections, and vaginal rings, function by adjusting hormone levels to prevent ovulation. These contraceptives primarily work by suppressing ovulation to prevent the release of an egg from the ovary or by thickening the cervical mucus which prevents the sperm from meeting with the ovary. Furthermore, intrauterine devices (IUDs) offer long-term protection by releasing hormones or forming a physical barrier to sperm. Barrier measures such as condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps provide instant protection and are hormone free (Contraception | CDC, n.d.). Women can also choose permanent sterilisation procedures such as tubal ligation and minilaparotomy.

The use of contraceptives by women does help to control undesired pregnancies but also causes several effects in their bodies including hormonal imbalances and health implications. Hormonal contraceptives, such as birth control pills, and injections can induce side effects such as irregular menstrual periods, mood swings, and nausea, and many more. Some women may gain weight. Long-term use of hormonal contraceptives may also affect bone density. Some women may experience irregular bleeding or spotting, particularly during the initial months of use. Furthermore, hormonal contraceptives can raise the chance of blood clots, especially in women who smoke or have other risk factors.

According to a survey conducted in Uganda that is PMA2020’s sixth cross-sectional survey and a follow-up survey conducted 1 year later, about 23% of the hormonal and IUD contraceptive users reported to have got severe side effects due to the use of hormonal and IUD contraceptives (Zimmerman et al., 2021). The number might seem less, but the fact that even a small percentage of risk is capable of changing a person’s life has to be considered. 

In conclusion, individuals must carefully examine the potential negative effects of contraceptives before beginning to use them, and they should prioritise receiving guidance from healthcare specialists. While contraception is extremely beneficial in preventing unplanned births and supporting reproductive health, it also carries dangers and side effects that differ from person to person. Consulting with a doctor provides specialised assistance adapted to individual health needs, ensuring the selection of the most appropriate contraceptive technique with the fewest dangers. Furthermore, healthcare practitioners can provide crucial guidance on managing and reducing potential side effects. Plus, couples can use male contraceptives such as condoms, which is a much safer contraceptive option, for stopping conception.

References:

• Contraception|CDC.(n.d.).https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/contraception/index.htm

• Zimmerman, L., Sarnak, D., Karp, C., Wood, S. N., Ahmed, S., Makumbi, F., & Kibira, S. P. S. (2021).

• Association between experience of specific side-effects and contraceptive switching and discontinuation in Uganda: results from a longitudinal study. Reproductive Health,reproductive-health-journal.biomedcentral.com/articles/