What Are the Benefits of Birth Control After Menopause?

Menopause is the cessation on the monthly menses for twelve months. After the age of 40, the chances of a woman naturally conceiving is reduced by fifty percent. Also after this age, the menses may become irregular and hard to predict, also known as perimenopause.

Methods

• There are various types of birth control, such as oral contraceptives, barriers, and injection. The most effective form of birth control is a hysterectomy. This procedure involves the complete or partial removal of the female reproductive organs. This is a permanent surgical procedure. Barrier contraceptives such as condoms help protect against the transmission of STDs.

Oral Contraceptives

• Birth control pills, when taken correctly, can be 99% effective in preventing an unwanted pregnancy. Because the monthly period can be unstable during perimenopause, ovulation can still occur, making birth control a necessity.

Barriers

• Barrier contraceptives, such as condoms or diaphragms, block sperm from fertilizing the egg. They also aid in the prevention of sexually transmitted diseases.

Cancer Prevention

• Birth control pills containing a low dosage of hormones can help prevent the development of ovarian, cervical, and endometrial cancers.

After Menopause

• Some symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness are sometimes present before, during and after menopause and can be alleviated by taking oral contraceptives.