Does contraception provide more benefits than just preventing unwanted pregnancy? Learn why it's important..

Good health requires more than just diet and exercise, but also awareness. Awareness about health and its essential aspects, contraception, is one of them, which has a direct and profound impact on health. Therefore, World Contraception Day is celebrated every year on September 26th to raise awareness about this issue.

The purpose of this day is to promote awareness about contraception methods, as well as sexual and reproductive health. On this special occasion, we spoke with Dr. Pallavi Vasal, Clinical Director of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Maringo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram, to learn why contraception is important.

Why is contraception important?
The doctor explains that contraception encourages women to make informed choices about their reproductive health and contributes to reducing unwanted pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and maternal and child mortality. However, its benefits go beyond just preventing pregnancy. Let's explore some of its contraceptive benefits:

Prevents unwanted pregnancy - Contraception helps prevent unwanted pregnancy. This can reduce the risk of high-risk miscarriages and female mortality.

Reduces cancer risk - Long-term use of hormonal contraception can reduce the risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer. Barrier methods also help prevent sexually transmitted infections and the resulting cervical, vulval, and penile cancers.

Manages menstrual health - Contraception regulates menstrual cycles, reduces heavy bleeding, and alleviates symptoms of conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis.

Improves Mental Health - Contraceptives contribute to improved mental health by reducing anxiety associated with unwanted pregnancy.

What are the types of contraceptives?
Temporary contraceptives - This type of contraceptive is called "barrier methods," with condoms being the most common. They not only prevent unwanted pregnancy but also protect against STDs.

Hormonal and Emergency Contraceptives - Another type of contraceptive is hormonal contraceptive pills. There are three types: combined pills, progesterone-only pills, and emergency pills. Combined pills contain both estrogen and progesterone and, when taken continuously for 21 days, induce menstruation. Progesterone-only pills are effective for breastfeeding women.

Meanwhile, emergency contraceptive pills are taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex. However, these pills should only be used under the advice of a doctor.

Injectable Contraception - The third method of contraception is injectable. Depo-medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) injections are administered every three months. Vasectomy is also a permanent method of contraception.

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