When The Contraceptive Name Stands In The Way

So the other day as I was, sipping a cold drink over a football game in my local kafunda I overheard a guy right behind me mention spermicide to his friends. My ears raised in alertness and I instinctively turned back and set focus on the chap. He had that appearance; a well kempt beard, a cap, a Samsung J1 and maroon khaki pants. “Straight Outta Campus” my alter ego and I aptly concluded, as we got drawn into his conversation. The gist was that he landed a fresh girl, and when she said her only contraceptive option is spermicides, he called it too foreign, but in reality, he didn’t know what it was. She got offended, and bounced him so he was trying to figure things out.

Not knowing something has never been a crime. If it were, we would never have to learn. However, if you don’t know, don’t be too proud to learn. In any case though, even if you choose to be proud, I got you and will give you some information on these not-so-often-used contraceptives. Hopefully you grip a thing or two. This I write not just for the brother in the kafunda (who may be reading this on his J1), but also for any of y’all who may not know these things. Let’s get this over with.

Spermicides

This contraceptive avoids pregnancy in two ways. It blocks the entrance to the cervix so sperm can’t reach the egg, or slows down the sperm movement to the egg. The word “cide” means “to kill”, but spermicides don’t kill the sperm (I just explained what exactly they do). The ladies have full control over this one. You insert as deep into your vagina as possible before sex, and you are good to go. According to Planned Parenthood, it is 71% accurate.

Diaphragms

88% effective. They are cups (Quite small. Not tumpeco size) that are bent and inserted into the vagina to cover the entrance to the cervix, to keep the approaching sperm army out. That is it. These, alongside cervical caps, are known to work well alongside spermicides. FYI, once the sperm enters the cervix, you can be almost certain that a girl will get pregnant.

 Vaginal Rings

These are flexible transparent rings. When inserted into the vag, they produce progestin that prevents ovulation. It should last up to 3 weeks inside the body, then it is taken out and the lady can enjoy a ring-free week. If you still want to use it, repeat this cycle. The lady has to insert it herself, but if she needs bae’s support in anyway, then sirs, please be around.

 Implants

These are medically inserted into the arm, and produce hormones that bar ovulation, and in men’s case, though not common, sperm development between a year and three years, depending on what your choice was. After this time, they are removed and the body resumes normal ovulation and sperm production. The medical dons will always tell you when to remove it. Mark those dates, and don’t be too stubborn as to try and remove it yourself in that case.

 For now, try to take those in. The ever reliable Sauti Senga will come through for you in case you have any questions, and to tell you about more options. Always remember though, the above will help you curb pregnancy, but not STDs. Learn them nonetheless, because contraceptives are here to ensure you have kids when you are ready. Till next time, keep yourself safe. Peace out fam!