A clinical guide for contraception aids and women’s reproductive health
Healthcare professionals can find it tricky to discuss contraception with patients when they are not having children. Preconception counselling, where couples can discuss their plans for the future, is invaluable. Yet, unless you have had a baby before, you may not fully understand the complex issues that some women and couples face. This can lead to inappropriate advice or treatment. That’s why a lot of doctors, genetic counsellors and midwives are now trained in contraception, so they can provide the right care to all patients.
What is contraception?
Contraception is the control of either pregnancy or fertility. It can be achieved by avoiding sex or using methods that prevent fertilization. There are many different types of contraceptives that are available, including:
- Barrier methods
- Surgery
- Pills
- Injectables
- Imitation of Periods
- And more
Each one has its pros and cons, and it’s best to discuss which one best suits your particular needs with your healthcare provider.
When should you try for children?
This is a personal decision that should be made after you have weighed up the pros and cons of having children. You should not assume that just because you are over 30 you will automatically be able to have children. Age is a factor, but so is your personal situation, health and life goals. In some countries, such as Portugal and Spain, there is a legal requirement for fertility clinics to offer advice and treatment to those who cannot have children. In other countries, such as Australia and Finland, there is no such legal obligation. In these countries, it’s up to you and your partner to decide whether or not to have children.
Is it always best to use a combination of methods?
In general, using more than one type of contraceptive is better than relying on just one method. This is because it reduces the risk of unwanted pregnancies. However, with every choice comes a trade-off. For instance, using barrier methods and contraception pills together can reduce the risk of unplanned pregnancy. But, if you end up with a health problem that causes you to miss a period, it could be difficult to decide when to have a baby and when to wait. In that case, using just one method could be preferable, especially if that method is surgery or an implant. This is because it simplifies life and makes it easier to track your periods.
With modern science, there is always an alternative.
Many infertile patients have turned to alternative methods in order to have a child. These range from traditional Chinese medicine to hormone therapy, and even in vitro fertilization. Although many of these methods are effective, they are not without their risks. That’s why, whenever possible, it’s best to discuss these options with your healthcare provider. With proper support and monitoring, all of these methods can lead to healthy pregnancies and deliveries for couples who want to have children.
The importance of sexuality education
Healthcare professionals should receive adequate training in sexuality education, so they can provide the right care to their patients. If you are not sure where to start, ask your doctor or nurse for help. They will be able to give you a good referral to a sexuality education or family planning class. Learning to negotiate safer sex practices, and how to say no to sex if you feel uncomfortable, is a vital part of healthcare. Safer sex, including the use of condoms as well as pregnancy testing and treatment, can help to reduce the risk of STIs, including HIV.
It is also important for healthcare professionals to learn about women’s health issues, including reproductive health. Not knowing where to start, many doctors and nurses may assume that a patient is just coming into labour when, in fact, she is not. This can cause a delay in treatment and, in some cases, even harm the patient. An educated and experienced healthcare professional will know exactly what to look for and will be able to take the correct action quickly and accurately.
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