Gynecology and Obstetrics Pathology

Contraception

Methods and devices used to prevent pregnancy are often known as birth control or contraception. Contraception has been in practice since time immemorial, but the modern ways of contraception had come into play in the 20thcentury. Birth control is not only used in cases of unwanted pregnancies, but it is also used in cases where pregnancy is proved to be fatal to the foetus as well as the mother. It also protects people from getting affected by sexually transmitted diseases. Contraception also plays a pivotal role in family planning as well. It affects demographics like population control, population density and so on. Birth control also helps in increasing economic growth of a country by decreasing the number of dependent children, more women in the working sector and less use of scarce resources. Nowadays in the market, various kinds of contraception are available both for men and women that have long term and short-term effects respectively. While some contraceptives are permanent, others are temporary. Among the permanent ways of contraception, sterilization is one of them which are vasectomy in males and tubal ligation in females. Among the non-permanent methods of contraception there are emergency contraception pills, patches, vaginal rings, injections, intrauterine devices. Other physical barrier methods include usage of condoms, diaphragms, birth control sponges and fertility awareness methods.  Worldwide 26th September is celebrated as the World Contraception Day.