How Long Does Vasectomy Recovery Take?

Typically, any pain or discomfort will dissipate within a few days after the procedure, but doctors tend to recommend avoiding any strenuous activity or sexual intercourse for about a week. After a week post-procedure, most men are back to their regular routine. 

While pain typically subsides quickly, the absence of sperm in the semen may take several weeks or even months. If you plan to resume sexual intercourse after the pain recedes, keep in mind that you should use additional forms of contraception until you can confirm that your semen is sperm-free using an at-home Vasectomy Sperm Count test, or through lab testing.

Symptoms to Watch For During Recovery

While the recovery process is generally smooth for most men, it’s crucial to be vigilant about certain post-procedure complications, including:

Infection

According to a 2021 study published in the World Journal of Men’s Health, while often mild, post-vasectomy infections occur following 0.2% – 1.5% of procedures. Signs of infection include increased redness, swelling, pus or discharge, or an elevated temperature. If you notice any of these symptoms, reach out to your doctor.

Sperm Granuloma

A sperm granuloma is a hard, sometimes painful lump (about the size of a pea) that may develop internally at the site of the vasectomy. Sperm granulomas are typically caused by sperm leaking from the severed vas deferens. While they are not typically dangerous, they can be uncomfortable. If you suspect you have a sperm granuloma, consider visiting your healthcare provider.

Long-Lasting Pain

While some discomfort and mild pain are typical post-procedure, if the pain persists for weeks or becomes severe, you should see your doctor. One concern with consistent pain could be post-vasectomy pain syndrome (PVPS). Cleveland Clinic notes that PVPS affect approximately 2% of men who have undergone a vasectomy and is characterized by persistent and chronic testicular pain or discomfort that lasts for three months or longer after a vasectomy.

5 Vasectomy Recovery Tips Every Man Should Know

If you are planning on getting snipped soon and are looking for some vasectomy recovery tips, consider the following:

1. Try Eating Foods That Promote Healing

After undergoing a vasectomy, your body can benefit from specific nutrients that aid in the healing process like Vitamin C or Zinc. Vitamin C is vital for collagen synthesis, aiding wound healing and tissue repair. Whereas zinc is proven to help with protein synthesis and cell growth, promoting faster recovery. 

Some familiar sources of vitamin C include:

• Citrus fruits
• Strawberries
• Bell peppers
• Broccoli

Some familiar sources of zinc include:

• Lean meats
• Nuts
• Seeds
• Whole grains

2. Consider Wearing Tight Fitting Underwear

Wearing tight-fitting underwear can provide necessary support to the scrotum, reducing movement and potential strain on the surgical site. This added support helps in alleviating pain and reducing the risk of complications due to excessive movement. 

3. Avoid Heavy Lifting

Heavy lifting post-vasectomy can exert extra pressure on the incision sites, leading to complications such as bleeding or increased swelling. To stay safe, refrain from lifting heavy objects for at least a week post-operation or until your doctor permits you.

4. Stay Hydrated 

Hydration plays a pivotal role in the healing process. Drinking plenty of water post-surgery can aid in flushing out toxins from the body, which is especially helpful when the body is recovering. Keeping a water bottle handy and sipping regularly can be a practical approach to maintaining your hydration levels during recovery.

5. Take It Easy

Recovery is a process, and giving your body the time it needs to heal is of the utmost importance. While the urge to return to regular activities might be strong, it’s essential to listen to your body. Any sign of discomfort or pain should be taken seriously. 

Verify Your Vasectomy’s Success

Before engaging in unprotected sexual activity, you’ll need to confirm that your semen is sperm-free. This typically takes about 12 weeks, but can take up to 6 months for some men. Your physician will provide instructions for having your sperm tested either at a lab, or using an at-home post-vasectomy sperm count test. 

With SpermCheck’s Vasectomy Home Test for Men, you can confirm the success of your vasectomy from the comfort of your home. The SpermCheck Vasectomy Home Test provides results with over 98% accuracy quickly. After taking this easy-to-use test, your results will be ready in a matter of minutes.

Want to Know More?

• Male Infertility 
• Male Fertility Testing 

Compiled using information from the following sources:

1. Yang F, Li J, Dong L, Tan K, Huang X, Zhang P, Liu X, Chang D, Yu X. Review of Vasectomy Complications and Safety Concerns. World J Mens Health. 2021 Jul;39(3):406-418. doi: 10.5534/wjmh.200073. Epub 2020 Jul 30. PMID: 32777870; PMCID: PMC8255399. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8255399/
2. Cleveland Clinic, Post-Vasectomy Pain Syndrome, Retrieved November 2023. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23048-post-vasectomy-pain-syndrome

The post Navigating Vasectomy Recovery: 5 Expert Tips appeared first on American Pregnancy Association.

The Different Types of Vasectomies

There are two types of vasectomies commonly available: 

1. Conventional Vasectomy

With a conventional vasectomy, a small incision in man’s skin is made so that the tiny tubes in the scrotum that carry sperm, known as the vas deferens, can be accessed. Internally, the vas deferens tubes are cut or closed so sperm cannot leave the body and cause a pregnancy. Lastly, the tubes and skin are sutured closed and allowed to heal.

2. No-Scalpel Vasectomy

With a no-scalpel vasectomy, only a small puncture hole is made in the skin to access the vas deferens tubes, instead of making an incision. The no-scalpel method lowers the risk of post-procedure complications and typically takes less time to heal. Though the no-scalpel vasectomy can reduce complications, many men still undergo the traditional procedure due to cost, doctor preference, and other factors.

How Effective Are Vasectomies?

Men who opt for a vasectomy as a method of contraception see a wide array of advantages. Many men note that the main advantage of a vasectomy is its effectiveness. 

Similarly to how a tubal ligation procedure works for women, a vasectomy is a one-time procedure that provides permanent contraception. If you and your significant other are in the process of deciding between either a tubal ligation or a vasectomy – note that a vasectomy:

• Can be performed outpatient
• Is often less complex
• Is likely more affordable

Noted in a study published in Fertility and Sterility, a vasectomy’s recanalization rate falls between 0.3% – 0.6%. The procedure is more than 99% effective in preventing pregnancies. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, some of the most common contraceptives and their failure rates include:

Although the vasectomy procedure is known for its effectiveness, it can take a considerable amount of time for semen to be completely free of sperm. In some cases, it can take many months to achieve sperm-free semen.

Two to three months after your vasectomy procedure, your doctor will likely ask you to provide a semen sample that can be tested. It is best to avoid having intercourse without another form of contraception until after you are assured that there is no sperm in your semen. 

When Can You Have Sex Again Post-Vasectomy?

After a vasectomy, many men wonder when they can safely resume sexual activity. There are two key timelines to consider when establishing the best time to have sex again following a vasectomy:

• When will sexual intercourse be pain-free?
• When will semen be sperm-free?

Typically, pain following a vasectomy procedure only lasts for around one week. Once the pain subsides and your incision site is headed, you can resume sexual intercourse, but remember that your semen may still have sperm in it and that sex without an additional form of contraception can still pose a risk of pregnancy.

According to the University of Virginia Department of Urology, sperm may still be present in semen for over six months post-vasectomy. Although newly produced sperm can no longer travel beyond the altered vas deferens, there is likely some sperm remaining in the vas deferens or urethra. During the first few months following a vasectomy, frequent ejaculation can help clear out any remaining sperm.

Verify Your Vasectomy’s Success at Home

With SpermCheck’s Vasectomy Home Test for Men, you can confirm the success of your vasectomy from the comfort of your home. This home test checks your semen for the presence of sperm, giving you peace of mind about your sterility status.

The SpermCheck Vasectomy Home Test provides accurate and trusted results quickly. After taking this easy-to-use test, your results will be ready in a matter of minutes.

Want to Know More?

• Male Infertility 
• Male Fertility Testing 

Compiled using information from the following sources:

1. Cook LA, Pun A, Gallo MF, Lopez LM, Van Vliet HA. Scalpel versus no-scalpel incision for vasectomy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2014 Mar 30;2014(3):CD004112. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD004112.pub4. PMID: 24683021; PMCID: PMC6464377. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6464377/ 
2. Schwingl PJ, Guess HA. Safety and effectiveness of vasectomy. Fertil Steril. 2000 May;73(5):923-36. doi: 10.1016/s0015-0282(00)00482-9. PMID: 10785217. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10785217/
3. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Effectiveness of Birth Control Methods, Retrieved November 2023. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/infographics/effectiveness-of-birth-control-methods
4. University of Virginia, Department of Urology, Pre and Post Vasectomy Instructions, Retrieved November 2023. https://med.virginia.edu/urology/for-patients-and-visitors/mens-health/vasectomy-how-it-works/pre-post-vasectomy-instructions/

The post Exploring Your Options: How Effective is a Vasectomy? appeared first on American Pregnancy Association.

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The common answer is your chances are very low. However, there are rare cases where living sperm can be present in the precum and conception subsequently possible. Precum is one reason that we suggest that all couples who are not trying to get pregnant use a condom the whole time there is penetration (when the penis enters the vagina).

What is Precum?

Precum is more accurately known as pre-ejaculate fluid. This is a bodily fluid that is released from the penis during intercourse. Most men don’t even notice discharging precum when it happens. More importantly, men do not have any control over it.

Are There Sperm in the Precum?

Studies indicate the majority of pre-ejaculate fluid has dead or no sperm at all. But, it is possible for small amounts of sperm to exit his reproductive system and make its way into the precum or pre-ejaculate.

Can You Get Pregnant Without Penetration?

For all practical purposes, you cannot get pregnant without penetration. However, if ejaculate fluid/semen comes in contact with the vagina even without penetration, it is possible that sperm could enter and fertilize an egg.

Can I Get Pregnant if He Pulls Out?

Anytime there is a possibility of sperm in the vagina there is a risk of sperm fertilizing an egg. That’s why it’s wise to wear a condom the whole time there is genital contact.

How Long Does Sperm Survive?

Sperm will live 3-5 days in the vagina. That’s why, whether you want to get pregnant or avoid pregnancy, it’s important to know your ovulation cycle and your fertility window. Our free Ovulation Calendar can help you discover your most fertile days.

Should I Take Plan B?

Plan B is similar to birth control pills. Its single tablet delivers 1.5 mg of levonorgestrel to delay or prevent the release of an egg from the ovary. Because it uses such a high dosage, Plan B is not meant to be used as a regular birth control method. From pills to patches and IUDs, there are many choices when considering types of birth control.

If you have questions, we’re happy to talk with you on our chat line or helpline, 1-800-672-2296.

Want to Know More?

• How to Get Pregnant
• Can You Get Pregnant on Your Period?
• What is Ovulation?

The post Chances of Getting Pregnant From Precum appeared first on American Pregnancy Association.

Federal Programs for Pregnant Women

There are several government organizations that offer assistance to pregnant women. Many of these services are funded by the federal government but you may have to apply through your state’s health department or agency first. Financial assistance for pregnant single mothers and others may be available through some of these sources as well.

Women, Infants, and Children Program

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program offers nutritional food and education. You can also get some screening services with referrals to other agencies as needed. Women are eligible for services throughout pregnancy and up to 6 months after birth or the end of the pregnancy. If you are breastfeeding, you may qualify for up to one year or for 6 months after birth if you are not breastfeeding.

The WIC program issues checks, electronic cards, or vouchers so that you can purchase specific foods to improve the nutrition of the recipients. Examples of these foods include infant formula and cereal, fruits, vegetables, eggs, cheese, peanut butter, and other healthy foods.

To be eligible for this assistance, your income must be at or below 185 percent of the U.S. Poverty Income Guidelines and meet other WIC eligibility requirements to qualify for the program. If you or other family members participate in another benefit programs like Medicaid, you will automatically be eligible for this service. Click here to apply.

Pregnancy Medicaid

Medicaid is a state-administered program that may allow you to obtain important heath services – especially during pregnancy. The general guidelines for eligibility for Medicaid are set by the Federal government; however, each state sets up their own specific requirements for eligibility and these can differ from state to state.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program can also offer assistance to pregnant mothers if you are pregnant with no resources. TANF is federally funded but administered by the state; the goal is to provide temporary financial assistance at the same time while helping you find a job to better support yourself. The financial aid can be used to purchase food, clothing, housing, utilities, and medical supplies.

Low-income families with children and pregnant women who are in the last three months of pregnancy are typically able to receive these benefits. Each state has specific eligibility requirements like with Medicaid. In order to apply, you should contact the Medicaid office in your state.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Previously known as the food stamp program, SNAP provides low-income and no-income families with debit cards to purchase groceries.  A household be be one person or a group of people who buy and make their food together. Eligibility requirements vary from state to state but you need to be close to the federal poverty line to qualify. Check  your state’s specific eligibility guidelines and services.

Affordable Housing

The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services operates the Maternity Group Homes for Pregnant and Parenting Youth (MGH) Program to support homeless pregnant and/or parenting young people, as well as their dependent children. Youth must be between the ages of 16 and 22 to enter the program.

The Housing Choice Voucher Program, also known as Section 8, helps low-income earners and their families with rental expenses. The program is managed by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and has helped millions of low-income families keep a roof over their heads. Under Section 8 housing assistance program, if you qualify, HUD will directly pay a housing subsidy on behalf of your family to your landlord. You’ll then pay the difference between the subsidy and the total amount of rent due. The first step in the qualification process is to fill out a formal application.

Rent Help for Low-Income Rural Families

If you live in a rural community, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) can help pay your rent if you’re experiencing housing problems. This assistance is a subsidy and is available through the Rural Development program. The USDA also provides housing assistance to the disabled and elderly, and many others. This is a special program that falls under the Section 8 housing assistance program, so the first step in the qualification process will be to apply online.

Free Health Care Programs

The Health Resources and Services Administration provides low-income families with free health care access in all 50 states. To see if your family qualifies, start by reviewing the guidelines. If you do, accessing medical care is as simple as locating a qualifying clinic. Once you arrive, you’ll fill out several forms prior to receiving the medical care you are seeking.

Dental Care

Many government and privately funded dental clinics offer their services for free. If you and your family qualify, you’ll have access to free basic dental care, including checkups, referrals, and medications. Look up a complete list of contacts in each state online.

Childcare Subsidies and Vouchers

The federal government provides grants and funding to states and local communities to help qualified low-income families access affordable day care services. To qualify, you must be employed, going to school, or enrolled in an approved job training program before taking advantage of the day care services offered under this program. Funding provided by the government only covers a portion of overall childcare expenses, however, which means you’ll still be responsible for the difference. To see if you qualify and to find a local participating facility, call 800-424-2246.

Other Helpful Financial Resources to Help Pregnant Women

Energy Bill Assistance

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps millions of families nationwide overcome this problem. To learn more, contact LIHEAP directly at 202-401-9351.

Religious Charities

There are a variety of religious organizations that may offer help to pregnant women. Since financial pressures and lack of support may contribute to the decision about abortion for some women, these groups seek to financially support women who may want assistance in carrying the pregnancy to term. They may supply clothing and baby items as well.

For example:

Pregnancy Resource Centers offer counseling, medical services and may be able to help you secure local financial resources in your community. Click to find the pregnancy centers near you.

Catholic Charities in many communities offers assistance to women with unplanned pregnancies. They provide pregnancy counseling and adoption services as well. You can check with the Catholic Charities in your area if you are in need of assistance with your pregnancy.

Adoption Agencies may offer financial assistance if you’re considering placing your baby for adoption. This assistance may come from the parents you choose for your baby.

Sources:

U.S. Housing and Urban Development

USDA Rural Development

Office of Community Services

Health Resources and Services Administration

Need Help Paying the Bills

The post Financial Help for Pregnant Women appeared first on American Pregnancy Association.

How does a birth control sponge work?

 You insert the sponge deep into your vagina before sexual intercourse to prevent pregnancy. It is designed to fit over the cervix and works in three ways to prevent pregnancy:

• It blocks the cervix, preventing semen from entering the uterus.
• The sponge contains spermicide which kills sperm.
• The sponge absorbs the semen and traps sperm.

How effective is a contraceptive sponge?

The effectiveness of the sponge depends on how well you use it and whether or not you’ve ever given birth. The failure rates are:

• 9 percent for women who haven’t given birth and use the sponge correctly every time
• 12 percent for women who haven’t given birth and don’t use the sponge correctly every time
• 20 percent for women who have given birth and use the sponge correctly every time
• 24 percent for women who have given birth and don’t use the sponge correctly every time

To improve the effectiveness of the sponge, ask your partner to pull out before ejaculating. He can also use a condom as added protection.

You should take a pregnancy test if you are experiencing any pregnancy symptoms.

What are the side effects or health risks of a contraceptive sponge?

The sponge has been associated with some women experiencing toxic shock syndrome (TSS) – a rare but serious life-threatening bacterial infection.

The sponge should not be left inside the vagina for more than 30 hours. The sponge should not be used during menstruation or if you have a history of TSS.

If the sponge breaks when you’re trying to remove it and you can’t get all the pieces out, you need to see your doctor. Leaving the pieces in your body may cause an infection.

You should not use the sponge if you are allergic to sulfites (a chemical found in some food and wine), the spermicide, or any of the sponge’s materials. Doing so may lead to an allergic reaction.

What are the pros & cons of the birth control sponge?

The Pros include:

• Easy to use and effective immediately
• Inexpensive and available at drugstores
• Can be inserted up to a day before having sex
• Does not require a medical exam or prescription
• Doesn’t affect your hormone levels
• It’s reversible

The Cons include:

• It’s less effective if you’ve given birth
• It’s unsafe to use during your period
• It doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• The sponge or spermicide may irritate your vagina, which can increase your risk of STIs
• Insertion and removal can be messy or difficult

NOTE: The contraceptive sponge was removed from the market in 1994 by the FDA for health reasons but has been recently re-approved by the FDA, so it may not be available in all areas. Be sure to check with your pharmacy or health care provider on the availability of the contraceptive sponge.

Want to Know More?

• Types of Birth Control
• Birth Control Failure
• Birth Control Pills
• Birth Control Patch

Sources:

Healthline: About the Birth Control Sponge

The post Contraceptive Sponge appeared first on American Pregnancy Association.

What are the different kinds of birth control pills?

• The minipill contains only progestin. In each pack, all the pills contain the same amount of progestin and all the pills are active. The progestin dose in a minipill is lower than the progestin dose in any combination pill.
• Combination birth control pills contain both estrogen and progestin. Combination birth control pills come in different mixtures of active and inactive pills, depending on how often you want to have periods:
  • Conventional packs usually contain 21 active pills and seven inactive pills, or 24 active pills and four inactive pills. Bleeding occurs every month when you take the inactive pills.
  • Continuous dosing or extended cycle packs typically contain 84 active pills and seven inactive pills. Bleeding generally occurs only four times a year, during the time when you take the inactive pills. Formulations that contain only active pills are available.

Most combination birth control pills contain 10 to 35 micrograms of ethinyl estradiol, a kind of estrogen. Women who are sensitive to hormones may benefit from taking a pill that contains a dose of estrogen at the lower end of this range. However, low-dose pills may result in more breakthrough bleeding — bleeding or spotting between periods — than higher dose pills.

• The extended-cycle pill is a combination pill that reduces the number of menstrual periods from 13 periods a year to only four a year. That means someone who takes this pill will menstruate only once each season.

  They use a combination of two hormones that are commonly used in other hormonal contraceptives. But the pill is taken continuously for 12 weeks, followed by 1 week of inactive pills, which results in a menstrual cycle.

How do the different birth control pills work?

Combination birth control pills prevent your ovaries from releasing an egg. They also slow an egg’s progress through the fallopian tubes, thicken cervical mucus and thin the lining of the uterus (endometrium). These actions help keep sperm from fertilizing the egg.

Combination pills are either monophasic (one phase) or multiphasic (many phases).Both are equally effective at preventing a pregnancy.

• Monophasic pills deliver an even level of hormones throughout the month.
• Multiphasic ones have slightly different levels of hormones in active pills. They mimic normal hormonal changes that happen during your menstrual cycle.

The minipill slows an egg’s progress through the fallopian tubes, thickens cervical mucus and thins the endometrium. This prevents sperm from reaching the egg. The minipill sometimes also suppresses ovulation.

What are the side effects of birth control pills?

There are side effects of birth control pills, although most are not serious:

• Nausea
• Sore or swollen breasts
• Small amounts of blood, or spotting, between periods
• Lighter periods
• Mood changes
• Mild headache

What if I forget to take my birth control pill?

If you forget to take some of the pills, you will have menstrual bleeding at irregular times, and the likelihood of pregnancy increases.  When you forget to take a pill, take it as soon as you can. Take your next pill at the usual time. If you forget to take two or more pills in a row, you should refrain from sexual intercourse or use a backup method of contraception. You also should contact your health care professional on what to do next.

How effective is the pill?

If pills are taken every day at the same time, and each pack is started on time, oral contraceptives are 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.  On average, oral contraceptives are 93-97% effective because women often miss pills or do not start a new pack on time. Contact your healthcare provider if you are experiencing any pregnancy symptoms.

What Are Levonorgestrel and Ulipristal?

Unlike the other pills, these aren’t intended for regular birth control. Levonorgestrel (Fallback Solo, Next Choice One Dose, Opcicon One-Step, Plan B One-Step) and ulipristal acetate (Ella) can greatly lower your chances of getting pregnant if you had unprotected sex or if you’re concerned that your usual birth control method didn’t work.

Levonorgestrel is about 88% effective if you use it as directed. You need to take it as soon as possible within 3 days of having sex.

Ulipristal is about 60% to 70% effective if you use it correctly. You need to take it ASAP within 5 days of having sex.

Things to Keep in Mind When Taking Birth Control Pills

• Keep another form of birth control, like spermicidal foam and condoms, on hand in case you forget to take a pill.
• Carry your pills with you if you don’t always sleep at the same place.
• Take your pill at the same time every day.
• Get your refills soon after you start the last prescription. Don’t wait until the last minute.
• Birth control pills are medications. Always tell your doctor or pharmacist you are on the pill if you see them for any reason.

What about the pill and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?

Oral contraceptives do NOT provide any protection against any sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV.

Want to Know More?

• Types of Birth Control
• Birth Control Failure
• Birth Control Patch

Sources:

Mayo Clinic: Choosing a Birth Control Pill

WebMD: Birth Control Pills

The post Birth Control Pills appeared first on American Pregnancy Association.

Let’s talk about your pregnancy

It’s helpful to talk through your pregnancy with a trusted family member or friend. We’re here for you too. Our pregnancy educators are ready to answer your questions and talk about every possible scenario. Call us 1-800-672-2296 or click the chat window.

The post Your Pregnancy appeared first on American Pregnancy Association.

How effective is the withdrawal method as birth control?

• The Pros:
  • Withdrawal can be used every time
  • Withdrawal may be added to other forms of birth control to increase the effectiveness
  • Withdrawal is free
  • Withdrawal does not require a prescription or manipulation of some mechanism
• The Cons:
  • Withdrawal is not considered the most reliable form of birth control
  • The woman must have complete trust in the man’s ability to withdraw
  • Pre-ejaculation, which may contain sperm, occurs without the knowledge of the man
  • Some men have difficulty timing their withdrawal

What are the side effects or health risks of withdrawal?

Outside of the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases, the withdrawal method does not possess any side effects or health risks as a means of birth control. The withdrawal method isn’t as effective at preventing pregnancy as other forms of birth control.

Is it reversible?

Yes. It does not have any effects on either the male or female reproductive function. It is possible to get pregnant immediately if withdrawal is no longer used.

How much does it cost?

Free.

What about withdrawal and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?

It does not prevent the vagina from coming in contact with your partner’s skin. Also, because of pre-ejaculate excretions, withdrawal does not prevent the vagina from coming in contact with bodily fluids. As such, it should NOT be considered as a means for protection against the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases.

To use the withdrawal method, you need to:

• Properly time withdrawal. When you feel like ejaculation is about to happen, withdraw the penis from the vagina. Make sure that ejaculation occurs away from the vagina.
• Take precautions before having sex again. If you plan to have sex again soon, urinate and clean off the tip of the penis first. This will help remove any remaining sperm from the last ejaculation.

Want to Know More?

• Types of Birth Control
• Birth Control Failure
• My Girlfriend is Pregnant

Sources:

Mayo Clinic: Withdrawal Method (coitus interruptus)

Healthline: How effective is the pull-out method (withdrawal)?

The post Withdrawal Method as Birth Control appeared first on American Pregnancy Association.

The vaginal ring prevents pregnancy in one of three ways:

• First, it prevents eggs from being released from the ovaries.
• Second, it thickens the cervical mucus, preventing the sperm from reaching the egg.
• Third, it changes the lining of the uterus, preventing implantation. This third method presents some ethical concerns that you may want to consider.

How Do You Use the Vaginal Ring and How Effective is It?

The device is inserted into your vagina where it remains for three weeks. It is removed during the fourth week to allow your menstrual period to occur. At the end of the fourth week, the process is repeated. The vaginal ring begins to work immediately, but a second form of birth control should be used during the first seven days of your first month’s use of the vaginal ring.

The failure rate is less than 2% when it is used correctly and consistently. In other words, when it is used correctly, less than 2 in 100 women will get pregnant. You should take a pregnancy test if you are experiencing pregnancy symptoms.

Certain medications and supplements can also reduce the effectiveness of the vaginal ring. These include:

• St. John’s wort
• the antibiotic rifampin
• some HIV medications
• some antiseizure medications

If you take any of these, it’s a good idea to use a backup form of birth control.

What are the Side Effects or Health Risks of the Vaginal Ring?

The device has side effects similar to those experienced by users of oral contraceptives or other hormonal types of contraception which include:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Breast tenderness
• Fatigue
• Moderate weight gain
• Change of appetite

Additional side effects may include vaginal bleeding, skin irritation, yeast infections, contact lens problems, and depression.
The device should not be used by women who:

• Smoke
• Have high blood pressure
• Have a history of breast or uterine cancer
• Have a history of blood clots
• Have a history of heart attack or stroke
• Are allergic to hormones
• Have diabetes
• Have liver disease
• Have unexplained vaginal bleeding.

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following:

• Chest pains
• Redness, swelling, or pain in your legs
• Abnormal or irregular vaginal bleeding
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
• If you think you might be pregnant

Women who wish to use the vaginal ring should seek additional consultation with their physician if they are experiencing any of the following medical concerns:

• Depression
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• High risk for heart disease
• History of blood clotting conditions
• History of liver disease

Is the vaginal ring reversible?

Yes. Ovulation may return within a few days after discontinuing the ring; however, it may take a few months for some women. Pregnancy should be possible when you stop using the vaginal ring.

What about the risks of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?

The vaginal ring does NOT provide protection against the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases.

Can I use the vaginal ring when I am breastfeeding?

If you have recently been pregnant or if you are breastfeeding, it is best to consult your physician for the best time to start using the ring.

What do I do if the ring comes out?

If the ring comes out, it is best to replace it right away. If you do this within 3 hours, no backup method should be necessary.

Where does the ring need to go?

The exact position of the ring in the vagina is not vital to its effectiveness but read your instructions carefully to understand where the ring should be placed.

The Pros of the Vaginal Ring:

• Highly effective when used correctly
• Does not inhibit sexual spontaneity
• Minimal side effects
• You do not have to remember to take a pill each day.
• You do not have to go to the doctor’s office for a shot each month.
• It is reversible.

The Cons include:

• Does NOT protect against sexually transmitted diseases
• Requires a prescription
• Requires monthly insertion and removal

Want to Know More?

• Types of Birth Control
• Birth Control Failure
• Birth Control Pills
• Birth Control Patch

Sources

• Centers for Disease Control (CDC): Birth Control Methods
• Healthline

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