Effects of

Contraceptives
on female health
What is Contraceptives ?

 Contraception = Against Conception

 Contraceptivesare methods or devices used to
prevent pregnancy by inhibiting the process of
conception or fertilization.
Need For Contraception

Preventing Unintended Pregnancies:
• A primary goal of contraception is to avoid unintended pregnancies, allowing individuals to plan for
parenthood when they are ready.
• Family Planning:
• Contraceptives empower couples to make informed decisions about the timing and spacing of pregnancies,
supporting family planning efforts.
• Maternal and Child Health:
• Proper use of contraception helps in spacing pregnancies, reducing the risk of complications for both
mothers and infants.
• Education and Career Pursuits:
• Contraception enables individuals to pursue education and career goals without the immediate
responsibilities of unplanned parenthood.
• Health and Well-being:
• Planned pregnancies contribute to healthier outcomes for both mothers and children, positively impacting
overall community health.
• Global Population Control:
• As the global population continues to rise, responsible contraceptive use contributes to sustainable
population growth.
Ideal Contraceptive ?
• Efficiency
• Safety
• Reversibility:
• Affordability and Accessibility
• Ease of Use
• Minimal Interference with Sexual Activity
• Long-Lasting Protection
• Prevention of STIs
• Cultural and Personal Acceptance
• Educational Support
Types of Contraceptives
1. Hormonal Methods:
1. Pills: Oral contraceptives containing hormones (estrogen and/or progestin) to prevent ovulation.
2. Patches: Transdermal patches releasing hormones for systemic contraception.
3. Injections: Injectable contraceptives administered at regular intervals, providing longer-term
protection.
2. Barrier Methods:
1. Condoms: Male and female condoms create a physical barrier preventing sperm from reaching the
egg.
2. Diaphragms: Dome-shaped devices placed over the cervix to block sperm entry.
3. Intrauterine Devices (IUDs):
1. Hormonal IUDs: T-shaped devices releasing hormones to prevent fertilization.
2. Copper IUDs: Utilize copper to create an inhospitable environment for sperm, preventing
fertilization.
4. Permanent Methods:
1. Sterilization for Men: Vasectomy involves cutting or blocking the vas deferens.
2. Sterilization for Women: Tubal ligation involves blocking or sealing the fallopian tubes, preventing
eggs from reaching the uterus.
Hormonal Contraceptives

1. Mechanism of Action: Inhibition of Ovulation, Thickening Cervical Mucus

1. Inhibition of Ovulation: Hormonal contraceptives primarily prevent pregnancy by suppressing
ovulation, the release of an egg from the ovary.
2. Thickening Cervical Mucus: Hormones alter cervical mucus consistency, impeding sperm movement
and reducing the likelihood of fertilization.
2. Benefits and Side Effects
1. Benefits:
1. Highly effective in preventing pregnancy when used correctly.
2. Regular menstrual cycles with reduced menstrual cramps.
3. Potential improvement in acne and skin conditions.

2. Side Effects:
1. Nausea, headaches, or breast tenderness.
2. Mood swings or changes in libido.
3. Individual variations in side effects.
3. Considerations for Different Formulations
1. Combination Pills: Contain both estrogen and progestin.
1. Suitable for women with regular menstrual cycles.
2. Additional non-contraceptive benefits, such as acne control.

2. Progestin-Only Pills: Suitable for women who can't take estrogen.

1. Often recommended for breastfeeding mothers.

3. Patches and Injections: Provide hormonal contraception through alternative delivery

methods.
1. Offer convenience with less frequent administration.
Barrier Methods

1. Condoms: Male and Female

1. Male Condoms:
1. External sheaths worn over the penis.
2. Create a physical barrier, preventing sperm from entering the vagina.
3. Protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
2. Female Condoms:
1. Worn internally, covering the cervix.
2. Provide a barrier against sperm and STIs.
3. Offer women greater control over their protection.
2. Diaphragms and Cervical Caps
1. Diaphragms:
1. Dome-shaped devices inserted into the vagina, covering the cervix.
2. Used with spermicide to block sperm entry.
3. Require proper fitting and placement.
2. Cervical Caps:
1. Smaller than diaphragms, covering only the cervix.
2. Used with spermicide for enhanced effectiveness.
3. Similar considerations for fitting and correct usage.
 Effectiveness and Proper Usage
• Effectiveness:
• Barrier methods, when used consistently and correctly, offer reliable protection against
pregnancy.
• Male condoms provide additional protection against STIs.
• Proper Usage:
• Follow instructions for correct placement and removal.
• Ensure the use of adequate lubrication for comfort and effectiveness.
• Regularly check for any damage or expiration dates.
Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)

1. Types: Hormonal and Copper IUDs

1. Hormonal IUDs:
1. Release progestin to prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus.
2. Examples include Mirena, Skyla, and Kyleena.
2. Copper IUDs:
1. Utilize copper to create an inhospitable environment for sperm.
2. Examples include ParaGard.
3. Insertion Process and Duration of Effectiveness
3. Insertion Process:
1. Conducted by a healthcare professional.
2. Involves placing the IUD into the uterus through the cervix.
4. Duration of Effectiveness:
1. Hormonal IUDs: Effective for 3-6 years, depending on the type.
2. Copper IUDs: Effective for up to 10 years.
3. Reversible upon removal.
3. Advantages and Considerations
• Advantages:
• Highly effective in preventing pregnancy.
• Long-lasting protection without daily maintenance.
• Reduced menstrual bleeding for some hormonal IUD users.
• Considerations:
• Possible side effects include cramping and changes in bleeding patterns.
• Risk of expulsion or perforation, though rare.
• Regular check-ups are recommended to monitor placement and effectiveness.
Permanent Methods

1. Vasectomy for Men

1. Procedure:
1. Involves cutting or blocking the vas deferens, preventing the release
of sperm during ejaculation.
2. Typically performed as an outpatient procedure.
2. Effectiveness:
1. Highly effective in preventing pregnancy.
2. Sperm-free ejaculate achieved after a certain period or number of
ejaculations post-procedure.
3. Considerations:
1. Reversal is possible but not guaranteed.
2. Counseling on the permanence of the decision is essential.
2. Tubal Ligation for Women
1. Procedure:
1. Involves blocking or sealing the fallopian tubes, preventing the
eggs from reaching the uterus.
2. Can be done through various methods, including surgery or
minimally invasive techniques.
2. Effectiveness:
1. Highly effective in preventing pregnancy.
2. Permanent contraception with no impact on menstrual cycles.
3. Considerations:
1. Irreversible, so careful consideration is crucial.
2. Counseling on alternative long-term contraception may be
necessary.
3. Irreversibility and Considerations
1. Irreversibility:
1. Both vasectomy and tubal ligation are considered permanent methods of
contraception.
2. Reversal procedures may be available but are not always successful.
2. Considerations:
1. Psychological and emotional impact of permanent contraception.
2. Thorough counseling on alternative contraceptive methods before opting
for permanent solutions.
3. Informed decision-making is essential for individuals and couples.
Emergency Contraception

1. Overview of Emergency Contraceptive Pills

1. Definition:
1. Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECPs) are a form of backup contraception used
after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.
2. Often referred to as the "morning-after pill."
2. Available Formulations:
1. Over-the-counter and prescription options containing levonorgestrel or ulipristal
acetate.
2. Timing and Effectiveness
1. Timing is Critical:
1. Most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse.
2. Effectiveness decreases with time, emphasizing the importance of prompt use.
2. Effectiveness:
1. Levonorgestrel ECPs are generally effective up to 72 hours after unprotected sex.
2. Ulipristal acetate ECPs offer an extended window of effectiveness, up to 120 hours.
3. Role in Preventing Unintended Pregnancies
• Preventing Implantation:
• ECPs primarily work by preventing or delaying ovulation, inhibiting
fertilization.
• They may also alter the endometrial lining, reducing the likelihood of
implantation.
• Not an Abortion Pill:
• ECPs are not abortifacients; they do not terminate established pregnancies.
Potential Side effects of Contraceptives
1. Nausea and Headaches:
1. Common Side Effects:
1. Some individuals may experience nausea, especially when first starting hormonal
contraceptives.
2. Headaches can occur but often subside as the body adjusts.
2. Mitigation:
1. Taking contraceptives with food or before bedtime can help alleviate nausea.
2. Staying hydrated and managing stress may reduce the likelihood of headaches.
2. Changes in Libido:
3. Variability in Response:
1. Contraceptives may affect libido differently in individuals.
2. Some may experience an increase, while others may notice a decrease.
4. Communication:
1. Open communication with healthcare providers is essential to address concerns.
2. Adjustments to contraceptive methods may be considered based on individual reactions.
3. Mood Swings and Emotional Changes:
1. Hormonal Influence:
1. Hormonal contraceptives can influence mood due to changes in hormone levels.
2. Some individuals may experience mood swings or emotional fluctuations.
2. Monitoring and Support:
1. Regular self-monitoring and awareness of emotional changes are crucial.
2. Seeking support from healthcare professionals or counselors is advisable.
4. Breast Tenderness:
3. Hormonal Impact:
1. Hormonal contraceptives, particularly those containing estrogen, may lead to
breast tenderness.
2. Changes in breast tissue sensitivity can occur.
4. Comfort Measures:
1. Wearing a supportive bra can provide comfort.
2. Reporting severe or persistent tenderness to healthcare providers is important.
Cardiovascular Effects of Contraceptives

1. Increased Risk of Blood Clot Formation:

1. Hormonal Influence:
1. Hormonal contraceptives, particularly those containing estrogen, may elevate the risk of blood clot formation.
2. Increased clotting factors and changes in blood viscosity contribute to this effect.
2. Risk Factors:
1. Individuals with a history of clotting disorders or smokers may face a higher risk.
2. Age and obesity can also influence clotting susceptibility.
3. Monitoring:
1. Regular monitoring for symptoms like leg swelling or chest pain is crucial.
2. Immediate medical attention is necessary if symptoms of a blood clot are observed.
2. Impact on Blood Pressure:
1. Hypertension Risk:
1. Some individuals may experience an increase in blood pressure while using hormonal contraceptives.
2. The impact varies, and not all users will be affected.
2. Regular Check-ups:
1. Blood pressure monitoring is essential during contraceptive use.
2. Healthcare providers may recommend adjustments or alternative methods for those at risk.
3. Importance of Monitoring Cardiovascular Health:
• Regular Health Check-ups:
• Routine cardiovascular health assessments are critical for individuals using contraceptives.
• Monitoring cholesterol levels, blood clotting factors, and blood pressure is essential.
• Collaboration with Healthcare Providers:
• Open communication with healthcare providers ensures a comprehensive understanding of
cardiovascular health.
• Tailored contraceptive choices may be recommended based on individual health assessments.
Effect of Contraceptives on Female's Bone Health

1. Potential Impact on Bone Density:

1. Hormonal Influence:
1. Hormonal contraceptives, particularly those with progestin, may have varying effects on bone
density.
2. Studies suggest a potential link between prolonged contraceptive use and a slight decrease in
bone mineral density.
2. Considerations:
1. The impact is generally modest and reversible upon discontinuation.
2. Individual responses may vary, emphasizing the need for personalized assessments.
2. Importance of Adequate Calcium and Vitamin D Intake:
3. Nutritional Support:
1. Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake is crucial for maintaining bone health.
2. Hormonal contraceptives users are encouraged to ensure a diet rich in these essential nutrients.
4. Supplementation:
1. For individuals with dietary limitations, supplements may be recommended after consultation
with healthcare providers.
2. Supportive measures contribute to overall bone health.
3. Regular Bone Density Screenings:
• Monitoring Bone Health:
• Women using contraceptives, especially for extended periods, may benefit from regular bone
density screenings.
• Screening helps assess bone mineral density and identify any potential concerns early.
• Collaboration with Healthcare Providers:
• Healthcare providers play a crucial role in monitoring and addressing bone health concerns.
• Routine screenings facilitate timely interventions if necessary.
Effect of Contraceptives on Weight Changes

1. Potential Weight Gain or Loss:

1. Varied Responses:
1. Hormonal contraceptives may impact weight differently among users.
2. Some individuals may experience modest weight gain, while others may notice no
significant changes.
2. Understanding Individual Variation:
1. Responses are individualized, and factors such as metabolism and genetics play a role.
2. Weight changes are often multifactorial, and contraceptives are just one potential influence.
2. Individual Variations in Response:
3. Hormonal Contraceptives and Metabolism:
1. Hormonal changes can influence appetite and metabolism, contributing to weight
fluctuations.
2. Response variations highlight the importance of personalized assessments.
4. Communication with Healthcare Providers:
1. Open communication with healthcare providers allows users to discuss concerns and
explore alternative contraceptive options if needed.
3. Lifestyle Factors and Mitigating Strategies:
1. Diet and Exercise:
1. Lifestyle factors, including diet and exercise, play a significant role in weight
management.
2. Encouraging healthy lifestyle choices can mitigate potential weight changes.
2. Monitoring and Adjustment:
1. Regular self-monitoring of weight and well-being is essential.
2. If weight changes become a concern, healthcare providers can collaborate on
adjusting contraceptive methods.
Impact on Mental Health

1. Association with Mood Disorders:

1. Hormonal Influence on Mood:
1. Hormonal contraceptives may influence mood due to fluctuations in hormone levels.
2. Some users may experience mood disorders such as depression or anxiety.
2. Individual Variability:
1. Responses vary, and not all users will necessarily experience mood-related side
effects.
2. Importance of Mental Health Check-ins:
1. Regular Self-Monitoring:
1. Users are encouraged to engage in regular self-monitoring of mental well-being.
2. Recognizing changes in mood and emotional states is crucial for early intervention.
2. Open Communication with Healthcare Providers:
1. Establishing open communication with healthcare providers facilitates discussions
about mental health concerns.
2. Regular check-ins contribute to comprehensive care.
3. Alternative Contraceptive Options for Those Prone to Mood-Related Side Effects:
• Non-Hormonal Alternatives:
• Consideration of non-hormonal contraceptive options for individuals prone to
mood-related side effects.
• Barrier methods or non-hormonal IUDs may be suitable alternatives.
• Consultation with Healthcare Providers:
• Healthcare providers play a central role in exploring alternative options based on
individual health and preferences.
• Informed decision-making aligns contraceptive choices with mental health
considerations.
Fertility after Discontinuation

1. Return to Fertility after Stopping Contraceptives:

1. Variable Timelines:
1. The ability to conceive after discontinuing contraceptives varies among individuals.
2. Fertility typically returns, but the timeline can be influenced by various factors.
2. Hormonal Contraceptives:
1. Fertility often returns quickly after stopping hormonal contraceptives like pills or patches.
2. Menstrual cycles may normalize within a few months for most users.
2. Timing Variations Based on the Type of Contraceptive Used:
1. Long-Acting Methods:
1. For long-acting contraceptives like hormonal IUDs, fertility can return promptly after
removal.
2. Copper IUDs do not affect fertility upon removal, allowing for a swift return to normal
reproductive function.
2. Permanent Methods:
1. Permanent methods like vasectomy for men and tubal ligation for women are generally
irreversible.
Importance of Open Communication

1. Encouraging Open Dialogue with Healthcare Providers:

1. Building a Supportive Relationship:
1. Establishing open communication creates a supportive relationship with healthcare
providers.
2. Users should feel comfortable discussing all aspects of their reproductive health.
2. Discussing Individual Health History and Concerns:
1. Holistic Understanding:
1. Open dialogue allows for a thorough exploration of individual health history and
concerns.
2. Discussing pre-existing conditions or potential risk factors ensures personalized care.
3. Collaboration for Finding the Most Suitable Contraceptive Method:
1. Tailored Contraceptive Choices:
1. Collaboration between users and healthcare providers facilitates the identification of
the most suitable contraceptive method.
2. Considering individual preferences, health needs, and lifestyle factors contributes to
informed decision-making.
4. Informed Decision-Making:
1. Empowering Users:
1. Open communication empowers individuals to actively participate in their reproductive
health decisions.
2. Being well-informed enables users to make choices aligned with their values and goals.
5. Ensuring Continuity of Care:
2. Regular Follow-ups:
1. Ongoing communication ensures regular follow-ups to monitor health, address concerns,
and make adjustments if necessary.
2. A continuous dialogue supports users throughout their reproductive health journey.
Conclusion

1. Balancing the Benefits and Potential Side Effects:

1. Consideration of Trade-offs:
1. Choosing a contraceptive method involves weighing the benefits against
potential side effects.
2. Users are encouraged to balance the advantages of contraception with their
individual health considerations.
2. Personalized Healthcare Decisions:
2. Tailoring Choices to Individuals:
1. The diversity of contraceptive options allows for personalized healthcare
decisions.
2. Factors such as health history, lifestyle, and reproductive goals contribute to
the selection of the most suitable method.
3. Empowering Women with Knowledge for Informed Choices:
1. Education and Empowerment:
1. Knowledge empowers women to make informed decisions about their reproductive
health.
2. Access to accurate information facilitates active participation in choosing
contraceptive methods aligned with personal values and goals.
4. Continued Healthcare Engagement:
2. Encouraging Regular Check-ups:
1. Regular healthcare check-ups are essential for monitoring the impact of
contraceptives on health.
2. Ongoing engagement ensures that choices remain in line with changing health needs.
5. Supporting Reproductive Autonomy:
3. Respecting Individual Choices:
1. Recognizing and respecting the diversity of choices empowers individuals in their
reproductive autonomy.
2. Every person's journey is unique, and contraceptive decisions should be respected and
supported.
THANKYOU