Contraception: How what where when and why?

In todays modern society there are so many different types of contraception to choose from, that it can all become quite confusing.

Ive tried most of the following different types, and have finally found the one that I prefer. But my aim today is not to try and push

Lets start with the most basic type first, moving up to the most invasive. Please note these are only the types of contraceptives available in Australia, some other countries may have other options available too.

Condoms: Well we all know that these are a piece of latex that is slipped over the erect penis before intercourse, or the 'female condom' which is also a latex sheath, but it is inserted into the vagina and covers the uterus. According to consumerreports.org, male condoms have a failure rate of about 2 in every 100 times used, whilst female condoms are at 5 percent. This ultimately depends on wether the condom was used properly or not. Oil based lubricants can make condoms more fragile, therefore water based lubricants are the prefferred option. There have been many reports made that they can interfere with the sensation you feel during intercourse, but overall they are the most effective form of contraception to prevent certain STDs.

The Pill: The pill comes in two types. The Mini-Pill (progestin only) and The Pill (Estrogen and Progestin). These have an excellent reputation, and only 1 in 100 unwanted pregnancies occur during use. The mini pill is taken by swallowing one tablet a day at the same time each day, and thickens cervical mucus, preventing sperm from entering the cervix. The pill is also taken in much the same way, however it is not neccessary to take the tablet at the exact same time each day, however it is reccommended. The pill is not reccommended for smokers, as it can cause blood clots.

Depo Provera Injection: Injected into either buttock or arm, this contraception lasts for 3 months and also has a failure rate of 1 in 100. For those that get no side effects, it is a godsend. For those that do get side effects, (me) well, lets just say that they will never use it again. The most common side effects are bleeding (I bled non stop for 2mths) weight gain, occasional nausea, or for the lucky ones, and this is the most common side effect, no bleeding whatsoever, or very light spotting.

Implanon: Implanon is a small 3cm rod (about the thickness of a piece of spaghetti) that is inserted under the upper layers of skin in a woman's arm. Irregular periods, headaches and acne are among some of the short term symptoms experienced with Implanon. This contraceptive lasts for 3 years.

IUD (Inter-Uterine-Device): Commonly known as Mirena, this T-shaped plastic device is inserted into the bottom of your uterus, in a procedure similar to a pap-smear. It can be done in a gyno's office, and lasts for 5 years. A very uncomfortable procedure to undergo, and some people are quite uncomfortable for the first few days after insertion, but to not have to worry about another form of contraception for another 5yrs in my opinion, its a small price to pay for a very effective form of birth control. Failure rate is less than 1 in 100.