Can men take birth control too?

Pregnancy can be prevented by both men and women. Popular male contraceptive methods include using a condom, a vasectomy and withdrawal. Of these, a condom is most popular as it prevents both unwanted pregnancies and protects the couple from transferring STDs. The withdrawal method is least recommended. If the woman in the relationship is on birth control medication, the man can also help prevent pregnancies by ensuring that she takes her medication regularly. Even when a woman is on birth control pills, it is a good idea to use a condom during intercourse.

Men should not take female birth control pills as this may cause a number of side effects. The high levels of female hormones in birth control pills can interfere with testosterone levels and cause changes in physical appearances and functioning of the sexual organs. It may also lower a man s libido and make him less assertive. The use of female birth control pills by men has also been associated with the development of male breast tissue. Do not experiment with birth control pills but use a condom instead.

Birth control medication for women is available in many forms. The pill is the most common form of birth control but must be taken regularly at the same time every day for it to be effective. Injections, patches and birth control vaginal rings make using birth control more convenient. Women may also choose to use birth control implants to help prevent unwanted pregnancies. Each type of birth control has its own pros and cons that must be well understood before making a choice about the type of birth control best suited to you. Consult your gynaecologist before you begin using any type of birth control medication.

Mini-pills are birth control pills that contain only progestin. Women who suffer from nausea because of oestrogen or those who are breastfeeding may use mini pills to prevent unwanted pregnancies. These pills work by thickening the cervical mucus and thus preventing the fertilisation of the egg by the sperm. It also lowers the chances of a successful implantation of a fertilised egg in the uterus by changing the lining of the uterus. In some cases, a mini pill may also keep the ovaries from releasing an egg. Birth control pills should be taken every day and preferably at the same time.