Ehkäisyvalmisteisiin

Ehkäisyvalmisteisiin, colloquially known as contraceptives, are methods and substances used to prevent pregnancy. They encompass a wide range of options, each with its own mechanisms of action, effectiveness rates, and potential side effects. The choice of an ehkäisyvalmiste is a personal decision influenced by factors such as health status, lifestyle, and reproductive goals.

Hormonal contraceptives, such as birth control pills, patches, rings, injections, and implants, work by preventing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to impede sperm, or altering the uterine lining to prevent implantation. Combined hormonal contraceptives contain both estrogen and progestin, while progestin-only methods contain only progestin.

Barrier methods, including condoms (male and female), diaphragms, cervical caps, and sponges, physically block sperm from reaching the egg. These methods often offer protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as well, particularly condoms.

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are small, T-shaped devices inserted into the uterus. Hormonal IUDs release progestin, while copper IUDs use copper to prevent fertilization and implantation. Both are long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) with high effectiveness.

Natural family planning methods involve tracking a woman's fertile window through methods like calendar tracking, basal body temperature monitoring, and cervical mucus observation, and abstaining from intercourse during that time. Emergency contraception, often referred to as the "morning-after pill," can be used after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure to prevent pregnancy. Sterilization, such as vasectomy in males and tubal ligation in females, are permanent methods of contraception.