Methods of Contraception or Family Planning
Methods of Contraception or Family Planning
Methods of Contraception or Family Planning
Various contraceptive methods are veritable proofs of couple’s efforts to prevent contraception
without inhibiting sex. They are classified into: Folk methods, mechanical methods, chemical methods,
hormonal methods, abortifacients, surgical methods, natural or behavioral methods.
11. 51 Folk Methods. These methods have long been used by common tao, but it does not
necessarily mean that professionals and the learned people don’t resort to them in one way or another.
a. Precoital/Postcoital douche. Vinegar and brime (warm water with salt) are prescribed as
precoital douche as they are both spermicidal; however, some people experience burning
sensation in the sensitive membranes of the genitals. As a result, others prefer postcoital
douching which is believed to flush out and immobilize the sperm in vagina.
Comments: Douching may be too late and often does not eliminate all semen. Frequent
douching may damage the normal vaginal mucus and may destroy the woman’s
climactic concentration; hence, it should be done only under medical direction.
c. Withdrawal. Also called coitus interruptus, is when the male withdraws his penis from the
vagina immediately before ejaculation; hence, coitus is “interrupted” and the male ejaculate
outside the female’s organ.
Comments: This is not a reliable method of contraception because there may be sperm
contained in the liquid that lubricates the male urethra during sexual stimulation prior
to ejaculation that could lead to contraception. Some couples may find it disturbing and
it may lead to sexual dissatisfaction and irritability when the male insists despite the
objection of female.
11.52 Mechanical Methods. These are various form of mechanical contraceptives that act as
barriers to block the sperm from entering the uterus, thus preventing contraception.
a. Condom. Also known as “rubber”, is a sheath of latex rubber which is put on the penis during
intercourse to prevent the sperm from entering the uterus. It is often advisable to put a
lubricant on the inside and the outside before placing on the penis to prevent lack of sensation.
Comments: Condoms not only prevent contraception, but also provide protection
against sexually transmitted diseases. Some men, however, find its used inconvenience
and feel it detracts from the complete enjoyment of sexual relations.
b. Diaphragm. A dome-shaped latex rubber membrane that is placed in the vagina to close the
opening of the cervix to prevent entrance of sperm; hence, it is also called a cervical cap, or
intracervical pessary. Shortly before insertion, creams and jellies are applied to the diaphragm
for added protection. Check-ups at least every two years and after each pregnancy are
recommended.
Comments: The diaphragm is harmless with no medical side effects; however,
contraception may occur if it is incorrectly inserted and fails to cover the cervix and if it
is dislodged during intercourse or other activity. Moreover, fertile cervical mucus will
enhance sperm motility and enable sperm to swim past the edges of the rubber dam.
c. Sponge. Another variation of diaphragm that is rectangular in shape with a string attached for
easy removal. Contraceptive jellies or a weak solution of vinegar is applied before it is inserted
in the vagina to keep sperm out of the uterus.
Comments: The fitting of the sponge can never be watertight against the uterine
opening because of the natural wetness of the vaginal environment. It is a weak
mechanical barrier.