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Contraceptives in Pakistan – Which one is right for you?

About 99 percent of women have used birth control at some point in their life. Nonetheless, it remains a taboo subject. Advertisements that address birth control in non-clinical terms are discouraged on social media platforms. Media and politicians talk about it as if it’s a luxury item rather than essential health care, as just a few days ago, the taxes on contraceptives increased significantly which is very likely to have a significant impact on the use of contraceptives in Pakistan. Only this year, it was revealed that 4 million unplanned births happened in Pakistan due to a lack of guidance and availability of contraceptives in Pakistan.

There is a range of different types of contraceptives available in Pakistan but some are more common than others. The type that works best for an individual depends on one’s health and circumstances. There is no contraception method perfect for everyone. Although some may be more effective than the rest, no method is ever 100% effective. The variety of contraception methods can be overwhelming. How do you know which birth control is right for you? Here, we talk about the 4 most common types of contraceptives in Pakistan.

Contraceptive pill

Birth control pills, alternatively referred to as hormonal contraceptives, combination pills, or simply “the pill,” are oral contraceptives that are used to avoid pregnancy. Contraceptive pills prevent ovulation. It is preferable to take the pill at the same time each day. It has been established that the tablet is 99.7% effective when used properly.

Your menstruation will become more regular, lighter, and less painful once you begin taking the tablet. It is always recommended to consult your doctor about your medical history and that of your family to see if the pill is good for you. Levonorgestrel is currently the authorized contraceptives pill in Pakistan in two 0.75-mg dosages for use within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse. It is considered to be one of the best contraceptive pills in Pakistan. Oral contraceptives in Pakistan are widely available in pharmacies and can be acquired with a prescription from a local drug store.

Condom

Condoms work by keeping semen from entering the vagina. Condoms in Pakistan aid in the prevention of unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted illnesses. They are inexpensive, simple to obtain, and effective in preventing cervical cancer. Condoms are the most used contraceptive for men around the world.

Contraceptive implant

Contraceptive implant is made of two thin, tiny rods about the size of a matchstick. It is inserted into the upper arms and the hormones released prevent unintended pregnancies. It can last up to 5 years and can be removed easily.

Intrauterine method

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, T-shaped device that is implanted into the uterus to prevent conception. The gadget is inserted by a health care provider. An IUD can be left in place and continue to function well for many years. After the recommended duration of use, or when the woman no longer requires or desires contraception, the device is removed or replaced by a health care professional. 

You may have a preference for one type of contraception over another. Bear in mind that because each woman’s body is unique, each individual may experience various effects. Choose a method that is most comfortable for you. It is absolutely alright to use many methods of contraception to avoid unintended pregnancies until you figure out which one works best for you.

Effective contraception benefits mothers and their children on both health and social levels by minimizing unplanned pregnancies and abortions and promoting family planning. Contraception promotes maternal health since undesired pregnancies can result in postpartum depression, feelings of powerlessness, greater time constraints, and a decline in general physical health.  Additionally, efficient contraception enhances women’s social and economic roles and enables them to engage fully in society. If we all commit to working toward widespread access to reproductive health care or at the very least to raise awareness, the rate of contraceptive prevalence in Pakistan can be boosted significantly.

By: Sanya Zahid

Citations

https://plan-uk.org/blogs/10-things-you-should-know-for-world-contraception-day

https://www.dawn.com/news/1675857/concern-over-taxes-on-contraceptives-in-imf-deal

https://www.howuknow.com/en/node/1386

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/162762

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2761792/#:~:text=Currently%2C%20two%200.75%2Dmg%20doses,hours%20after%20intercourse%20(15).

https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/contraception/conditioninfo/types

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