Christian Storrs FHS 2450 Spring 2014 Describe five different contraceptive methods, one barrier method, one

hormonal method, one natural method two others of your choice. Inform us about what the methods are, how they work, list some advantages and disadvantages of each. Tell which two you would most likely use and why? The condom is used as a barrier method contraceptive. It is typically used during vaginal or anal intercourse to help reduce the spreading of sexually transmitted diseases, and greatly lessens the chance of becoming pregnant if used properly. The condom is put on an erect penis and blocks the semen from entering the body of the sexual partner. Sensation and stimulation is diminished when using a condom for both the male and female but is definitely worth using for the protection it provides. Hormonal methods are greatly affective and most commonly used through the pill. Although many other types exist like the IUD. The IUD or (Mirena) is a hormonal device that is inserted into the uterus for a long period of time, used as birth control. The IUD has a T-shaped lightweight plastic frame that releases a type of hormone called progestin. The function of the Mirena is to thicken the cervical mucus on the walls of the uterus, to prevent sperm from fertilizing or just reaching an egg. Light pain and cramping may be associated with Mirena. But, it is very low maintenance and virtually stress free. Perfect for those who want a long term, care free contraceptive. Next, the withdrawal method is a form of natural birth control with a failure rate of 19% if practiced properly. With this method, the man will withdraw his penis from a womans vagina before ejaculation. Both partners should be in an agreement on this method and fully understand the consequences (unplanned pregnancy) that can follow if not practiced correctly. Disadvantages include being hardly effective because of the fact that sperm may be in the pre-ejaculate, which can lead to pregnancy. And the benefits are basically that withdrawal method is better than nothing. This is often seen used for religious reasons. Another form of contraception is the most effective method. You have a 100% chance of not becoming or impregnating someone by simply choosing to be abstinent. Being abstinent has the advantages of not becoming or getting someone pregnant and there is no chance of contracting STIS/HIV this way. The disadvantages include not having sex.

The last form of contraception is the method that is permanent. Sterilization is the method that is known as a vasectomy for men that prevents pregnancy. This method is done surgically through cutting and sealing part of each vas deferens. Benefits include no worry about ever having a child again. Disadvantages include not being able to reverse this surgery and never having the choice to have kids again or not. As a conclusion, because I am gay and I know my partner is STI and HIV free, we typically wont use protection, because pregnancy scares arent too much of a concern... But when we do, we use condoms as our primary contraception method.