Problems With Birth Control

Birth control is used to prevent birth. Whether the method is a condom, sponge, spermicide or birth-control pills and patches, each method of birth control can cause some people certain problems and carry certain inherent risks.

Spermicides

• Spermicides can be used alone or in conjunction with other forms of birth control. A spermicide is designed to kill sperm cells and is often available as a foam, cream or jelly. Some people may be allergic or sensitive to the chemicals in spermicides. Frequent use may cause irritation.

Condoms

• Condoms are generally a safe and effective birth-control method, especially when combined with a spermicidal jelly. However, sometimes condoms can slip or break entirely. In order for a condom to be as effective as birth control, it must remain intact. Another potential problem with condoms is that a few people are allergic either to latex or polyurethane, the main components of most condoms. In some cases, the spermicidal jelly used on some condoms may also cause problems.

  An important benefit of condoms, regardless of their problems, is that they are the only form of birth control that can also protect against HIV/AIDS. No other form of birth control can prevent the transmission of this potentially deadly disease.

Birth-Control Sponges

• Sponges are another common form of birth control. Although effective as birth control, they can have some inherent problems. People who are allergic to sulfa drugs or the component materials of the sponge may have reactions. Birth-control sponges may trigger toxic-shock syndrome in some people. In some women, the sponge may result in vaginal dryness. In addition, spermicidal jelly is usually used with cervical caps and problems can arise as a result.

Cervical Caps

• A cervical cap is a custom-fit barrier that prevents fertilization. Cervical caps are statistically more effective as birth control for women who have never given birth. Women who have had toxic-shock syndrome should not use a cervical cap. Cervical caps can be less effective as birth control than other methods and can become dislodged during intercourse. Some women have reported allergic reactions to the materials in the cap. In addition, spermicidal jelly is usually used with cervical caps, and problems can arise as a result.

Birth-Control Pills

• Birth-control pills are generally the most effective form of birth control. However, because they adjust hormone levels, some side effects occur in some women. Some women experience weight gain, headaches, changes in sex drive, bloating, dry eyes, acne or breakthrough bleeding between periods.