Birth control, also known as contraception, refers to methods and devices used to prevent pregnancy. It allows individuals to decide when or if they want to have children. There are a variety of birth control methods, each with different levels of effectiveness, side effects, and ways they work. 1. Types of Birth Control Methods A. Hormonal Methods Hormonal birth control methods work by altering a woman’s hormonal cycle to prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, or thin the uterine lining to prevent pregnancy. Birth Control Pills (Oral Contraceptives): How it Works: Taken daily, birth control pills contain hormones (estrogen and progestin or progestin-only) that prevent ovulation. Effectiveness: 91% effective with typical use. Pros: Regulates menstrual cycles, reduces menstrual cramps, and lowers the risk of certain cancers. Cons: May cause side effects such as nausea, mood changes, and headaches. Contraceptive Patch: How it Works: A small patch worn on the skin that releases hormones (estrogen and progestin) to prevent pregnancy. Changed weekly. Effectiveness: 91% effective with typical use. Pros: Easy to use, only needs to be changed once a week. Cons: Can cause skin irritation and has similar side effects to birth control pills. Vaginal Ring (NuvaRing): How it Works: A flexible ring inserted into the vagina that releases hormones (estrogen and progestin). Worn for three weeks, then removed for one week. Effectiveness: 91% effective with typical use. Pros: Only needs to be changed monthly. Cons: Possible vaginal irritation, and similar side effects to other hormonal methods. Contraceptive Injections (Depo-Provera): How it Works: A progestin-only injection given every three months to prevent ovulation. Effectiveness: 94% effective with typical use. Pros: Long-lasting and doesn't require daily action. Cons: May cause irregular periods, weight gain, and a delay in return to fertility after stopping. Hormonal Intrauterine Device (IUD): How it Works: A small T-shaped device inserted into the uterus that releases progestin, which thickens cervical mucus and may stop ovulation. Effectiveness: 99% effective and lasts 3 to 6 years. Pros: Long-lasting, low maintenance, and very effective. Cons: Can cause irregular bleeding, and cramping during insertion.

1. Infertility Testing For Women: A variety of tests are performed to assess reproductive health and pinpoint any issues that might be preventing conception. Medical History & Physical Exam: This includes questions about menstrual cycle, past pregnancies, previous health issues, surgeries, medications, and lifestyle factors. Ovulation Testing: Basal Body Temperature (BBT) Charting: Tracks small rises in body temperature, indicating ovulation. Ovulation Predictor Kits: Detects the surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), which triggers ovulation. Blood Tests: To measure hormone levels like progesterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and thyroid function. Ultrasound: A transvaginal ultrasound assesses the ovaries and uterus to detect problems like ovarian cysts, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or uterine abnormalities. Hysterosalpingography (HSG): A dye is injected into the uterus, and X-rays are taken to check if the fallopian tubes are open and the uterine cavity is normal. Sonohysterography: An ultrasound that checks the uterine cavity and any abnormalities such as polyps or fibroids. Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive surgery used to check for endometriosis, scarring, or blockages in the reproductive organs. Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART): IVF (In Vitro Fertilization): As mentioned above, eggs and sperm are combined in the lab to form an embryo, which is then implanted in the uterus. ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection): Used in conjunction with IVF, this technique injects a single sperm directly into an egg. Surrogacy: If the woman is unable to carry a pregnancy, a surrogate may carry the pregnancy using the intended parents’ eggs and sperm or donor materials. Cryopreservation: Eggs, sperm, or embryos can be frozen and stored for future use, allowing for delayed pregnancies or additional IVF attempts. Lifestyle and Supportive Measures Healthy Weight Management: Being either underweight or overweight can affect fertility. A healthy diet and regular exercise may improve reproductive health. Avoiding Smoking and Alcohol: These substances can negatively impact both male and female fertility, reducing the chances of conception. Stress Management: High stress levels can interfere with hormone balance and reproductive health. Relaxation techniques, counseling, or fertility support groups may be beneficial. Supplements: In some cases, doctors may recommend supplements such as folic acid, vitamin D, or CoQ10 to support fertility.