When it comes to birth control, it can be a difficult, awkward subject to bring up in a relationship as this is a very sensitive topic. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Many couples don’t talk about birth control due to various reasons, such as embarrassment, assumptions, or just not knowing how to broach the subject. However, even though birth control is a very personal subject, it is necessary to have a conversation about it in order to ensure the safety, security, and future of a relationship and both parties involved.
Understanding the Reasons to Talk About Birth Control
There are numerous reasons why couples should talk about birth control, even if both parties feel uncomfortable discussing the topic. Knowing and understanding these benefits can help break the ice when discussing the matter and make it a less complicated conversation.
Benefit 1: Health
When it comes to health, the use of birth control can provide significant benefits. For many women, using the appropriate birth control method can help to regulate menstrual cycles, reduce menstrual cramps, improve acne, and even help target illnesses such as endometriosis, ovarian cysts, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
Benefit 2: Parenthood
When considering parenthood, planning and discussing birth control is important. Conversations about birth control can help to clarify how each person in the couple feels about becoming a parent, how important it is to them both, and their plans for the future. With these discussions, couples are able to form an agreement on when or if they will try to conceive in the future.
Benefit 3: Avoidance of Unintended Pregnancy
Accidental pregnancies can be the result of the lack of or incorrect use of birth control. Not discussing the topic can lead to a case of miss-communication or different understandings of what the conversation has been about. Proper communication and understanding paired with the right type of birth control can help reduce the chances of an unintended pregnancy.
How to Talk About Birth Control
A relationship should involve open and honest communication. The topic of birth control should not be a taboo subject. Here are some tips couples should consider when having a conversation about birth control:
Tip 1: Talk at a Time That Works for Both People
Find a time when both people are relaxed and can talk without any external distractions. This also means being in an environment where there will be no likelihood of either party feeling awkward or uncomfortable.
Tip 2: Make it an Open Conversation
When talking about birth control, it should not be a one-way discussion. Keep the conversation open and make sure both parties are listening to each other and openly expressing their thoughts and feelings.
Tip 3: Be Respectful
Anytime a conversation revolves around personal choices and decisions, things can get tense or heated very quickly. In order to prevent arguments, each person should listen to the other respectfully and refrain from making personal attacks.
Tip 4: Ask Questions
This is an important part of any discussion about birth control. Asking questions can help to understand what each person is thinking and feeling about the topic. When asking questions, it is important to be open and non-judgmental to help make the conversation more comfortable for both parties.
Tip 5: Don’t Assume Anything
When discussing birth control, it is important to not make assumptions about what either person is thinking or feeling. Assumptions can cause misunderstandings and can lead to conflicts.
Tip 6: Discuss Side Effects
Along with the types of birth control, couples should discuss the various side effects that can occur with each type. This can help provide insight into which method would work best for the couple, depending on each person’s health and lifestyle.
Different Types of Birth Control
Once a couple has discussed the topic of birth control, they can explore the different types of methods available. Here is a list of the most common forms of birth control:
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Barrier Methods: Examples include male and female condoms, cervical caps, sponges, and diaphragms. These methods physically block sperm from entering the womb and are typically used once and then disposed of.
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Hormonal Methods: Examples include the combined oral contraceptive pill, etonorgestrel implants, and monthly injections. These methods work by releasing hormones that keep the woman’s body from ovulating and therefore prevents the egg from meeting with the sperm.
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Intrauterine Devices (IUDs): These devices are inserted into the uterus, making it impossible for sperm to reach the egg. IUDs can be hormonal or non-hormonal and generally come with a lifespan of three to seven years, depending on the type.
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Natural Methods: These methods include fertility awareness, withdrawal, and natural family planning. Natural methods rely on tracking the body’s fertility patterns and do not use any form of artificial contraception.
When it comes to birth control, talking openly and honestly is essential for meaningful and healthy relationships. Doing this will ensure that both parties can make informed decisions about their own body and health, and will ultimately lead to safer and fulfilling relationships. While discussing birth control can be difficult and awkward, taking the time to carefully consider the topic can help bring clarity and peace of mind to any relationship.