An overview of contraception methods

As technology evolves, so do the ways we approach our health management. One such area where technology has made major strides recently is in the field of contraception. While chemical contraception, condoms, and hormonal IUDs have long been trusted methods of preventing pregnancy, there's a growing interest in using fertility tracking apps to help manage the process. But with so many options on the market, it's worth reviewing the safety and effectiveness of these methods.

Evaluating the safety of contraception methods

The Pearl Index (named after the scientist Raymond Pearl, it's inventor) is the assessment measure for the safety of contraceptives. The smaller the Pearl Index, the safer the contraceptive method.

Example 1: If 100 women use the same contraceptive for one year and 10 pregnancies occur during this period, the Pearl Index is 10.

Example 2: A Pearl Index of 0.1 means that one in 1000 women who use the same contraceptive for one year will become pregnant.

The best method offered by Shekan

Shekan offers the sympto-thermal method of tracking fertility to help prevent pregnancy. The sympto-thermal method involves tracking changes in basal body temperature, cervical mucus, and other physiological markers to determine when a person is most fertile. When used correctly, this method can be up to 99% effective.

Pearl index: 0.4 - 1.8 (If no unprotected sex has happened on fertile days)

Shekan vs. Chemical contraception

Chemical contraception, like the pill or patch, works by releasing hormones to suppress ovulation. But these methods come with their own set of potential side effects, including weight gain, mood swings, and increased risk of blood clots.

Pearl index of the pill: 0.1 - 0.9

Pearl index of contraceptive patches: 0.72 - 0.9

Shekan vs. Hormonal IUDs

Hormonal IUDs work in a similar way, releasing a low dose of hormones to prevent ovulation. While these tend to carry fewer side effects than chemical contraception, they require a medical professional to insert and remove the device.

Pearl index of hormone IUDs: 0.16

Pearl index of copper IUDs: 0.3 - 0.8

Benefits & risks of different methods

When it comes to safety, it's important to note that no method of contraception is completely foolproof. Unintended pregnancies can happen with any method of birth control, including fertility tracking apps. But when used correctly, the sympto-thermal method has been shown to be effective and safe.

It's also worth considering the convenience factor. Chemical contraception and hormonal IUDs require consistent use or medical intervention, whereas fertility tracking apps like Shekan can be used at any time and from any location. Additionally, while hormonal methods can disrupt the natural hormonal balance of the body, fertility tracking apps work with the body's natural rhythms.

Of course, for those who have irregular menstrual cycles or who are not comfortable with the idea of tracking their fertility, traditional contraception methods may be a better fit. But for those who are willing to put in the effort and who want a natural, non-invasive method of contraception, fertility tracking apps like Shekan can be a viable option.