Contraception in women: narrative review

Abstract

Objective: Address contraceptive methods available to women. Bibliographic review: Contraception is the right of every woman of reproductive age in order to prevent unwanted and/or unscheduled pregnancy. Contraception can be performed using reversible methods, such as behavioral methods, barrier methods, intrauterine and hormonal devices; or through irreversible methods, which correspond to definitive surgical sterilization through tubal ligation in women or vasectomy in men. There is also emergency contraception, which should only be used in specific situations. The choice of contraceptive method should be discussed together with the doctor, who should take into account the woman's desire and the individual clinical characteristics of each one, in order to indicate the most appropriate method for the patient. Final considerations: There are numerous contraceptive methods currently available, which allows each woman, in a joint decision with her doctor, to choose the most suitable method for her, providing greater safety and adherence to the method in question.