7 Facts About Birth Control That You Should Be Aware Of

Whether you're evaluating your birth control methods or are already using one of the 19 FDA-approved options, there are certainly some aspects of contraception that you're not aware of. Women and men have a lot to think about thanks to increased information on usage and effectiveness - and even some potential new gadgets on the horizon. With the seven birth control facts listed below, you may test your knowledge and evaluate how your decision compares to other contraceptive users.

1. Pills are more than just birth control

Even though the original designers intended the Pill to be used for birth control, it was initially authorized in 1957 for "severe period pain" — and came with a necessary "warning" that the pill might prevent conception. On June 23, 1960, the FDA authorized the first version of the Pill for contraceptive usage. 

Birth control pills are now mostly used for contraception. It can, however, address a wide range of medical conditions, from polycystic ovary syndrome to acne. Bulimia is also treated with the help of birth control pills.

2. Birth control can help manage endometriosis

Endometriosis is a severe condition that occurs when the inner lining of your uterus, known as the endometrium, develops outside of your uterus. This tissue bleeds throughout your period regardless of where it is placed. 

When tissue bleeds in locations where blood can't easily escape, it results in pain and inflammation. Hormonal birth control is beneficial since it helps you skip periods. Continuous birth control pills and IUDs are generally effective treatments for endometriosis.

3. Contraception is used by the majority of American women of reproductive age

According to the CDC, over two-thirds of women aged 15 to 44 currently use some kind of contraception. The pill is their top nonsurgical option, followed by long-acting reversible contraceptives like an IUD or implant.

4. There are male and female condoms

A male condom, used by men, prevents sperm from entering a woman's body. The most prevalent form, latex condoms, aids in the prevention of pregnancy, HIV, and other STDs. Condoms can only be used once, with an average failure rate of 13%. 

The female condom, when used by a woman, prevents sperm from entering her body. It can be taken up to eight hours before sexual activity. The typical failure rate of usage is 21%, and it may also help prevent STDs.

5. Birth control doesn't affect libido

Hormonal treatments, such as the pill and the ring, have long been assumed to suppress sex drive, but a new study indicates that birth control and sexual desire are unrelated. There is no substantial difference in sex urge between women who use pills and those who do not. 

However, some women perceive an increase in libido after discontinuing hormonal therapies. If you're not feeling as well as you'd like, your doctor can advise you on whether you should try changing your birth control option.

6. Early contraception options were scary

Before the pill with its 99 percent efficiency, women had few dependable birth control alternatives, forcing them to rely on folklore-inspired, possibly harmful procedures such as placing lemon rinds and crocodile dung in their vaginas.

7. Hormonal birth control for males is a topic of research.

Scientists took an important step toward commercializing the long-awaited male birth control injection. According to recent research, the injection worked for 96 percent of the 300 or so healthy males who took part. 

The hormone injection, which is administered every eight weeks, lowers sperm production by signaling to the body that it has enough. The men looked pleased with it; 75% stated they would continue to use it as their primary form of contraception.