Place |
Name |
Characteristic in the rating |
| 1 | Jess | Best quality |
| 2 | Marvelon | Normalizes the menstrual cycle |
| 3 | Lactinet | Allowed for breastfeeding women |
| 1 | Pharmatex | Best Action. Has antiviral properties |
| 2 | Patentex Oval | Most popular remedy |
| 3 | Gynecotex | Doesn't sting |
| 1 | Mirena | High quality. Efficiency |
| 2 | Juno Juno T Au | Long service life |
| 3 | Simurg Bio-T Ag | Best price |
| 1 | Contraceptive ring Novaring | The best hormonal background |
| 2 | Contraceptive sponges Pharmatex | Ease of use. Long lasting |
| 3 | Durex Classic | Most popular remedy |
| 1 | Ginepriston | Better Efficiency |
| 2 | Postinor | High result guarantee |
| 3 | Escapelle | Safe for the body |
It is difficult to say how barbaric modern methods of contraception will be considered by our descendants, because the most progressive and safe contraceptives of two hundred years ago look today as an instrument of torture. It is known, for example, that in the Middle Ages, women put iron caps on the cervix, lubricated it with a solution of mercury and lead, and inserted pessaries made of steel wire into it and caused infection and bedsores of the reproductive organs.At different times and in different countries, contraceptives were repeatedly banned by the authorities, then by the church, so devices such as a vaginal syringe or vaginal douche periodically appeared on the market, which were used to cleanse the internal female organs.
Current contraceptives promote the principle of safety and guaranteed protection against unwanted pregnancy. Three types of contraceptives are justified and approved by official medicine: physiological, barrier and drug.
- Barrier. Prevent sperm from entering the uterus. The most famous barrier contraceptive is the condom (both male and female). Other barrier contraceptives are intrauterine devices, contraceptive sponges, cervical caps, and spermicides.
- Physiological. Assume sexual intercourse on certain days of the female cycle, when the risk of becoming pregnant is minimal. Another method of physiological control is the method of PPA (coitus interruptus).
- Medical. Presented by pills, as well as vaginal rings and spirals that release hormones that block the onset of ovulation.
When prescribing a certain method of contraception to a woman, gynecologists often provide her with the opportunity to independently choose the appropriate remedy from a number of similar ones. But how to do this if the same drug has dozens of analogues that are identical in composition and mode of action? The rating of the best contraceptives takes into account the opinion of other women, the cost of drugs, the correspondence between the expected effect and the real one, as well as the presence of additional benefits and side effects.
Please note that the information below is not a buying guide. Consultation needed with a specialist!
The best birth control pills
It has long been proven that a prolonged absence of pregnancy can disrupt a woman's health, provoking hormonal failure, as well as mental and organ diseases associated with it. The Frenchman Verne Bullo, a historian by profession, said this back in the 19th century: "If a woman is not regularly pregnant, she will suffer from hysteria and from a whole category of somatic symptoms that stimulate almost any kind of physical illness or mental condition." At the same time, unwanted pregnancy and abortion can cause no less harm to a woman than a prolonged absence of pregnancy.
Hormonal contraceptives are chosen by millions of women around the world as the preferred method of contraception. They do not affect the sensations during intercourse and are guaranteed to protect against unwanted pregnancy and the consequences of its absence. The action of hormonal contraceptives is based on the prevention of ovulation. Scientists have calculated that at the time of birth, the girl's ovaries contain about 1 million follicles that can become eggs, and by the age of 37 there are only 25,000 of them. Hormonal drugs do not allow the body to ovulate, so the woman's ovarian reserve remains full. Meanwhile, hormonal pills have not only advantages, but also an impressive list of side effects, often life-threatening.
3 Lactinet
Country: Hungary
Average price: 675 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.8
Lactinet contains the only active ingredient - desogestrel.Belongs to the category of mini-pills (drugs containing a minimum amount of hormones). Mini-pills Lactinet are often prescribed for lactating women with an active menstrual cycle, as well as for those women who are contraindicated in combined OK. Lactinet is one of the few oral contraceptives prescribed for women who smoke, as well as women over 45 years of age.
Another feature of the Hungarian OK is that its protective effect against unwanted pregnancy is somewhat lower than that of modern COCs. For this reason, the drug is not recommended for use by women in active reproductive age (up to 30 years). Otherwise, this is a fairly effective contraceptive that has a smaller list of contraindications and side effects than modern pills.
Advantages:
- allowed during lactation;
- does not affect weight gain;
- suitable for those who are intolerant to synthetic estrogens.
Flaws:
- provokes the occurrence of mastopathy;
- violates the menstrual cycle during the reception;
- causes depression;
- causes nausea at the beginning of the course.
2 Marvelon
Country: Netherlands
Average price: RUB 1,425
Rating (2022): 4.9
Combined contraceptive drug from the Dutch company Organon. Approved for use by women over 35 years of age, as it contains a reduced amount of active ingredients. In addition to the contraceptive effect, it normalizes the volume of secretions and eliminates pain during menstruation. It can be used as a means of emergency contraception, but not more than 1 time in 6 months. The effectiveness of Marvelon as a postcoital agent does not exceed 80%.
According to women who took Marvelon, the drug has a negative effect on the ability to get pregnant if it has been used for many years, so it is recommended to drink these pills in courses. Given the increased risk of thrombosis, it is recommended to be examined by a hematologist, hepatologist and vascular surgeon before taking the drug.
Advantages:
- is inexpensive;
- normalizes the cycle;
- increases libido.
Flaws:
- causes acne;
- thickens the blood;
- increases appetite.
1 Jess
Country: Germany
Average price: 922 rub.
Rating (2022): 5.0
Jess is a combined oral contraceptive from the German pharmaceutical company Bayer. The active ingredients are drospirenone and ethinylestradiol. It is used to protect against unwanted pregnancy, with severe forms of PMS, as well as for the treatment of acne. The contraceptive effect of the pills is based on blocking ovulation and changing the quality of cervical mucus, which becomes too thick for sperm to move.
Unlike other COCs with the same active ingredient, the Jess formula has been improved: the latest (4th) generation drospironene is used here, and each tablet contains 1.5 times less ethinylestradiol than other COCs. For this reason, Jess is less likely than other drugs to cause swelling, mastopathy and weight gain.
Advantages:
- eliminates menstrual pain;
- reliably protects against pregnancy;
- improves skin condition.
Flaws:
- the cycle is restored for a long time after the completion of the Jess course;
- addictive;
- reduces libido;
- causes migraines.
The best birth control candles
Contraceptive suppositories belong to the category of spermicidal contraceptives.The principle of action of chemical spermicides is to destroy the membrane of spermatozoa: interacting with spermatozoa, the components of the drug destroy their membrane, separate the head from the tail, depriving them of the ability to move. Especially strong spermatozoa, however, are still able to get to the egg and fertilize it. This can be fraught with the birth of a child with certain physical deformities. Such a relationship has not been proven, but many women testify to this. It is not recommended to use such contraceptives regularly, because the acids contained in the candles can have a negative effect on the condition of the mucous membrane in the vagina, as well as on the cervix. Candles are not distinguished by the highest contraceptive ability. According to statistics, 15 out of 100 women who use birth control candles become pregnant within a year.
Thus, contraceptive suppositories are a convenient contraceptive option for women who have infrequent sex. Candles are ideal as an additional contraceptive - when the pill regimen has been violated or during the completion of lactation. The undoubted advantages of this method of contraception are the absence of a systemic effect on the body and the safety of intimate sensations.
3 Gynecotex
Country: Russia
Average price: 140 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.8
Gynecotex suppositories use the same active ingredient as Pharmatex suppositories - benzalkonium chloride, so these products are similar. The fundamental difference between Gynekotex and Pharmatex is the cost: Russian candles are about 3 times cheaper than German ones. Some women note that these suppositories dissolve somewhat worse in the vagina and give more foam.
Advantages:
- are inexpensive;
- do not cause burning;
- protect against infections.
Flaws:
- dissolve for a long time.
2 Patentex Oval
Country: Germany
Average price: 370 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.9
The main active ingredient in Pantex Oval is nonoxynol. Included in many contraceptives as a lubricant: thanks to its spermicidal properties, it enhances the contraceptive effect of cervical caps, condoms, sponges and vaginal films. When interacting with a sperm cell, it damages its membrane, thereby depriving it of the ability to dissolve the egg cell membrane. The time required for the destruction of the spermatozoon is 40 seconds (10 times more than that of Pharmatex). The drug does not have bactericidal and antiviral properties, therefore it cannot be used as protection against STIs. There are studies proving that nonoxynol contributes to human morbidity with certain types of human papillomavirus.
Advantages:
- effective;
- quickly dissolve;
- have a stimulating effect.
Flaws:
- have an unpleasant odor;
- cause itching;
- foam excessively.
1 Pharmatex
Country: France
Average price: 349 rub.
Rating (2022): 5.0
The main component of the drug is benzalkonium chloride. This drug has been used in medicine since 1935. It has not only a contraceptive effect, but also antiviral (protects against infection with herpes simplex viruses), antifungal and antiprotozoal. The substance has an instant effect on the sperm: its shell is completely destroyed within 10 seconds after contact with benzalkonium chloride.The rest of the drugs in this group require at least 30 seconds. Due to irritation of the mucous membrane of the vagina and cervix, the drug is able to increase the amount of secreted mucus, which has an additional contraceptive effect.
Advantages:
- have a pleasant smell;
- dissolve in 5 minutes;
- protect against infections.
Flaws:
- cause irritation;
- poorly open;
- provoking too much mucus.
The best intrauterine contraceptive coils
The intrauterine device is a contraceptive that has been well known since ancient China. In the past, coils were made from aluminum wire and wood, but today they are made from hypoallergenic plastic impregnated with anti-inflammatory compounds. According to its action, the spiral refers to barrier, abortive and spermicidal agents at the same time.
- Decreased fertility. The presence of an inflammatory process in the uterus contributes to the production of proteins that inhibit the maturation of the egg. As a result, ovulation is inhibited and fertilization does not occur.
- abortive effect. Located inside the uterus, the spiral negatively affects the endometrium, inhibiting its growth and ability to accept a fertilized egg. In fact, the spiral provokes a miscarriage in the early stages of pregnancy.
- spermicidal effect. In response to the located spiral, superficial inflammation occurs inside the uterus. As a result of inflammation, the alkaline environment in the uterus is replaced by an acidic environment that is detrimental to spermatozoa and contributes to their destruction. To increase the acidity of the intrauterine space, copper is additionally used in the spirals, which stimulates the release of an acid secret.
- Barrier contraceptive effect.The inflammatory process causes irritation of the cervical canal, which, in turn, produces an increased amount of thick cervical mucus that prevents sperm from entering the uterus.
Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a reliable and effective way to prevent unwanted pregnancy, which, however, is associated with the creation of a focus of chronic infection in the body.
3 Simurg Bio-T Ag
Country: Belarus
Average price: 600 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.8
Juno Bio-T Ag intrauterine ring-shaped spiral is one of the best non-hormonal contraceptives that reduces the risk of unwanted pregnancy due to the fact that the intrauterine device takes the place of a fertilized egg, preventing its location. It has a classic T-shape, the basis is an anchor made of high-density polyethylene. Recommended for women who have already had childbirth, but also suitable for nulliparous women. Made in a diameter of 18 mm for nulliparous women and 24 mm for those who gave birth.
According to reviews, it is the best contraceptive for family planning and for couples who already have children. Installed for 5-7 years.
Advantages:
- affordable price;
- long duration;
- reliability.
Flaws:
- access of external infections to the uterus;
- the need for analysis before installation;
- taking medication to prevent infections.
2 Juno Juno T Au
Country: Belarus
Average price: 3 500 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.9
The Juno T Au intrauterine device is a means of intrauterine contraception that reduces the likelihood of an unwanted conception. The coil is made of pure copper and gold, making it durable. It has a T-shape, its basis is a plastic anchor.Recommended for women who need long-term protection against unwanted pregnancies. Contraindicated in pregnancy and malignant diseases of the genital organs. Valid for at least seven years.
According to many women, the main advantages of this type of contraception are affordable price and long term use.
Advantages:
- long service life;
- pure composition;
- does not cause discomfort during intercourse.
Flaws:
- the risk of infection entering the uterine cavity;
- increase in the menstrual cycle;
- bleeding.
1 Mirena
Country: Finland
Average price: RUB 13,220
Rating (2022): 5.0
Mirena belongs to the category of hormone-containing spirals, therefore, the principle of its action is similar to that of hormonal pills. The fundamental difference is only in the way hormones are delivered to the body. True, according to some women, the hormonal spiral, unlike OK, does not cause increased appetite, does not provoke swelling and does not cause irritation of the digestive system. Like Multiload, Mirena is installed for 5 years.
Advantages:
- normalizes the hormonal background;
- reliably protects against pregnancy.
Flaws:
- requires large one-time costs;
- causes back pain
- contraindicated in the presence of benign tumors.
The best barrier contraceptives
Barrier contraception is the oldest, cheapest, most versatile and common method of contraception. A typical representative of this category is the condom. Less well known are contraceptive sponges and rings, cervical caps, vaginal films and diaphragms, as well as chemical barrier agents (candles, aerosols, gels).There are practically no contraindications to the use of these drugs, so they are ideal for those who have intolerance to OK or IUDs. Some of the barrier contraceptives are able to prevent premature ejaculation in men, protect against STIs and allergic reactions to ejaculate in women. The main disadvantage of barrier agents is that they only work when they are used. Our rating includes the best barrier contraceptives.
3 Durex Classic
Country: Great Britain
Average price: 437 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.8
The condom is the most common method of barrier contraception. Barrier contraceptives prevent the meeting of the egg and sperm. The condom is made in the form of a small thin-walled elastic tube with one closed end and an inlet on the other. Condoms are suitable for almost all women, except for latex allergies. They do not affect the hormonal background at all and, at the moment, are the only method of contraception that protects against STDs.
Many women still prefer this non-hormonal method of contraception because of its almost 100% reliability and ease of use.
Advantages:
- protect against STDs;
- do not change the hormonal background;
- suitable for daily protection.
Flaws:
- high price;
- loss of sensation
- there is a risk of damage to the latex shell.
2 Contraceptive sponges Pharmatex
Country: France
Average price: 65 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.9
Contraceptive sponges as a barrier method have been used by women for many centuries: in ancient times they were sea sponges soaked in oils, and today they are polyurethane foam soaked in chemical spermicidal compounds. Pharmatex sponges use benzalkonium chloride as a spermicide. Unlike contraceptive suppositories, the sponge has not only a spermicidal effect, but also a mechanical one - it physically prevents the penetration of spermatozoa into the cervix. After installing the sponge, the partners can immediately begin the PA, and in the case of repeated sexual intercourse, they do not need to insert a new sponge into the vagina, as it retains its effect during the day.
Advantages:
- does not flow;
- convenient to enter;
- long-term;
- has a pleasant smell.
Flaws:
- inconveniently removed;
- hard to find in pharmacies.
1 Contraceptive ring Novaring
Country: Netherlands
Average price: 1 050 rub.
Rating (2022): 5.0
Nuvaring is one of the methods of hormonal contraception, which, however, uses a fundamentally different method of administering hormones - vaginal. Due to this, the hormone does not pass through the liver and organs of the gastrointestinal tract, therefore it does not have a negative effect on them. The ring releases the minimum required amount of the hormone throughout the day, which eliminates hormonal surges during the day (as is the case with oral contraceptives) and creates an even hormonal background. Another advantage of the tool is the confidentiality of its use: the ring is easy to install on your own, it is not felt during intercourse and does not require removal after. The duration of action is 3 weeks. After 21 days, the ring is removed, and after 7 days it is installed again.
Advantages:
- set once a month;
- does not cause nausea;
- has less pronounced side effects compared to OK.
Flaws:
- sometimes falls out when straining;
- causes headache;
- provokes the development of vaginitis;
- allergic;
- enhances appetite.
Best emergency contraceptives
Emergency contraception is used when it is necessary to terminate an unwanted pregnancy resulting from unprotected intercourse. Tablets or intrauterine devices are used. Means do not allow pregnancy to occur due to the fact that they delay ovulation. However, this applies to pre-pregnancy up to 72 hours after intercourse if the pill is used and 120 hours after intercourse if an intrauterine device is used. If you do not take emergency contraception before the expiration of 72 hours, then they will no longer be able to harm a possible pregnancy. It also cannot be assumed that the risk of unwanted pregnancy from unprotected intercourse decreases with age. According to statistics, women of the age category of 30-40 years are quite fertile and are also included in this risk group. The main and serious disadvantage of emergency contraceptives is that they cause serious stress to the body and harm women's health.
3 Escapelle
Country: Hungary
Average price: 360 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.8
Escapel is a contraceptive used for emergency contraception, similar in its action to Postinor. The main active ingredient is levonorgestrel. Escapel is a better and less harmful contraceptive. Made in the form of flat large white tablets.Contraindicated in pregnant women, adolescents under 16, smokers over 30-40 years of age and people with renal insufficiency. The advantage of Escapel is a high probability of preventing unwanted pregnancy, and with less loss to the body.
According to most women, Escapelle is preferred because of the softer and more gentle action, despite the high price.
Advantages:
- high efficiency;
- taken once;
- causes less damage to the body.
Flaws:
- high price;
- side effects;
- failure of the menstrual cycle.
2 Postinor
Country: Hungary
Average price: 328 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.9
Postinor is one of the methods of emergency contraception. The contraceptive is taken in the form of tablets containing the active ingredient levonorgestrel. It prevents pregnancy by delaying the maturation of the egg or preventing ovulation. Contraindicated in adolescents under 16 years of age and with liver problems. The main advantage of Postinor is that it gives a high guarantee of preventing unwanted pregnancy, but it should not be taken more than 2 times a year.
According to women, Postinor is an effective, but dangerous contraceptive that needs to be taken after weighing the pros and cons.
Advantages:
- there are no consequences in the form of hormonal disorders;
- guarantee up to 95%;
- 72 hours to prevent unwanted pregnancy.
Flaws:
- cannot be used with other contraceptives or alcohol;
- can not be used more than once every six months;
- can cause cycle failure and bleeding.
1 Ginepriston
Country: Russia
Average price: 547 rub.
Rating (2022): 5.0
Ginepristone is a means of emergency contraception. It is not a hormonal contraceptive, and therefore less harmful to the body. Ginepristone blocks the connection between hormones and receptors, thus preventing pregnancy, but it does not suppress the action of progesterone, as other contraceptives do. This is its main advantage over harmful hormonal emergency contraceptives. Contraindicated in women over 30-40 years old, with problems with the kidneys and uterine myoma.
Most women speak of it very positively and consider it the best choice for those who care about their health.
Advantages:
- the most gentle in comparison with other contraceptives;
- effective;
- is not hormonal.
Flaws:
- high price;
- side effects;
- does not allow you to save the pregnancy in case of failure.
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