Contraception: What, Why & How
Contraception refers to the methods and devices used to prevent pregnancy. Also called “anti-conception” or “birth control”, these measures can be utilised by both women and men. When it comes good sexual health, contraception and family planning are important subjects that people need to be aware of. There are many options available across the country, each targeted differently for one’s reproductive and fertility needs.
Options For Women
There exists a wide range of contraceptive options for sexually active women who wish to avoid conceiving. A simple, basic attempt at birth control involves strictly following an ovulation chart. This is when a woman keeps track of her ovulation cycle and only engages in sexual intercourse during the low fertility cycles. However, this method is often unreliable for women whose ovulation cycle cannot be accurately predicted or who experience irregular periods. Ovulation kits are one way to double check whether one is ovulating or not. If the testing strip is revealed as “negative”, it is relatively safer to have sexual intercourse and avoid fertilisation.
Women also have access to devices that can provide a more long-term solutions to birth control. The first of these are categorised as caps or coverings. Laparoscopically inserted
apparatus such as diaphragms and cervical caps act as a barrier and prevent sperm cells from passing into the body. However, these blockage-based tools tend to have a high failure rate — a 20% chance of conceiving.
Similar such contraceptive means include intra-uterine devices or IUDs. Also commonly known as Copper-T, IUDs can be inserted into the uterus to prevent the sperm from entering. These devices can last up to three to four years. However, women have been known to react differently to the device overtime, with some experience negative side effects.
Another form of birth control that is commonly found across India are oral contraceptive pills. Prescribed for period 21 or 24 days, these hormonal pills reduce ovulation, thicken cervical mucus to prevent sperm cells from entering, and thin the uterine lining to lower the chances of a fertilised egg from attaching. The side effects of the pill include headaches, weight gain, water retention, and a brief period of hormonal imbalance. Often times, women don’t experience severe symptoms from taking the pill. Additionally, many also find a higher rate of success with preventing pregnancies. The only major downside to being on the daily contraceptive pill is that it cannot be missed even for a day. In such a case, the entire month would be considered “unprotected”.
It is important to note that oral contraception and insertion devices aren’t always suitable for women – especially those who have recently given birth. In such circumstances, progesterone injections or Depo-Provera is better suggested. The shot is to be taken every 3 months and is considered a safe form of birth control for new and lactating mothers. The only primary side-effects of Depo-Provera are weight gain and discomfort from the absence of menstruation.
For women who are confident about not wanting more children, there are far more permanent solutions to contraception. Tuber-libation is a surgically managed form of birth control, that involves cutting the fallopian tubes down the middle and acts as a lifelong sterilisation method. However, the procedure can be complicated and is to be conducted only after careful consultations with an appropriate health professional.
Options For Men
Birth control is a responsibility that stands equally with sexually active men. While the methods and procedures may differ, men also have available to them a wide range of contraception methods and devices. The most common form of this is the condom. Easily procurable at any local pharmacy, these latex barriers prevent sperm from entering the female body during ejaculation. But despite its widespread availability, condoms tend to have a high rate of failure due to cases of the material rupturing. 25% of most unwanted pregnancies result from condoms breaking.
Other short term means of birth control include using foams, gels, and creams that are spermicidal in nature — i.e., materials that kill sperm cells. They are meant to be used thirty minutes prior to having sexual intercourse. However, these spermicidal creams can be harmful in the long-run and tend to have a 29% chance of accidental conception.
For men seeking permanent contraceptive mediums, reproductive and sexual health professionals recommend vasectomies. This sterilisation measure is not only reversible, but offers a long-term solution to birth control as well. The surgery consists cutting and sealing the patient’s sperm ducts to prevent sperm cells from traveling into the uterus. In comparison to tuber-libations, vasectomies are farsimpler and take only a matter of 2-3 hours. Not only does it provide a comfortable solution for men, but it has an incredibly high rate of success with avoiding fertilisation.
Dr. Kavitha Gautham is a leading figure in the field of obstetrics and gynecology, and reproductive medicine, with a distinguished career marked by excellence and compassion. She holds an MBBS from Annamalai University, an MS in Obstetrics and Gynecology from Sri Ramachandra Medical College & Research Deemed University, and a Diploma in Reproductive Medicine from University Schleswing-Holstein, Germany. As the Founder & Director of Bloom Fertility Centre & Bloom Birthing Centre and Medical Director of Bloom Fertility & Healthcare, Dr. Kavitha spearheads initiatives aimed at providing personalized and holistic care to patients.
With several years of expertise in gynaecological laparoscopy surgery, she has performed (approx.) 10,000 deliveries, 10,000 hystero-laparoscopy surgeries, and more than 5,000 IVF cycles to date. She is a Life Member of the European Society of Reproductive Medicine & Indian Society of Reproductive Medicine, All India Congress of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Obstetric and Gynaecological Society of Southern India, Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India, and the Indian Medical Association. She is a Fellow from the Indian College of Obstetrics & Gynaecology and International Medical Science Academy, and FIMSA.
Dr. Kavitha has been the recipient of several awards, including the prestigious J.L. Javeri Award (AICOG, 2005), Excellence in Healthcare – Infertility & IVF Treatments award (The Chennai City ICON Awards, 2019), WONDER FOGSIAN award (FOGSI, 2019). Additionally, she was the first doctor in South India to successfully conduct a water birth in a VBAC case.
Dr. Kavitha has also presented research papers at prestigious conferences including ISAR and IMSACON and has been published in esteemed journals such as the ‘Journal of Clinical Diagnostic Research’. Her commitment to public service is evident through initiatives such as conducting health camps in collaboration with organizations like the SMILE Foundation and raising awareness about reproductive health through appearances on radio and TV shows.
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Dr. Dheepa comes with a diverse background in obstetrics, gynecology, paediatric surgery and general surgery. With a Master of Surgery (MS) in Obstetrics & Gynecology from the Pondicherry Institute of Medical Science, Pondicherry, and an MBBS from Coimbatore Medical College and Hospital, Dr. Dheepa has consistently showcased excellence in academic and professional endeavors. She has gained expertise in various areas including antenatal care, intrapartum care, postpartum care, pelvic pain, menstrual abnormalities, and laparoscopic surgeries. Committed to advancing medical knowledge, Dr. Dheepa has also presented papers and conducted research, contributing significantly to the field.
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Dr. Nivedhita is a skilled obstetrician and gynecologist, holding an MBBS from Madras Medical College, Chennai and an MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology) from Kilpauk Medical College, Chennai. She has been serving as an Assistant Professor at the Institute of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Egmore, Chennai, since 2022, and contributes to education and clinical practice. With a passion for research, Dr. Nivedhita has also conducted a significant observational study on thrombocytopenia in pregnancy, and actively participates in academic events and conferences. Proficient in Tamil and English, Dr. Nivedhita excels in patient communication and counselling. Her clinical interests span high-risk obstetrics, infertility, and minimally invasive surgery, ensuring comprehensive care for patients.
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Dr. Kousica is a distinguished obstetrician and gynecologist with a passion for research and patient care. After graduating with an MMBS from Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, in 2017, Dr. Kousica pursued advanced studies, earning an M.S in Obstetrics and Gynaecology from Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital in 2022. Complementing this expertise was a Diploma and Fellowship in Minimal Access Surgery (MAS) from World Laparoscopy Hospital, Delhi. With a focus on advancing medical knowledge, Dr. M. Kousica has authored impactful publications, including papers on pre-eclampsia and rare genetic disorders, published in renowned journals. She has also presented findings on infertility and reproductive health at prestigious conferences, contributing to the global discourse on women’s health. Currently specializing in infertility, Dr. Kousica is dedicated to providing compassionate care and innovative solutions to patients.
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Dr. Revathi is an Obstetrician and Gynecologist with a rich academic background and extensive clinical experience. She holds an MS in Obstetrics and Gynecology from Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, and has pursued specialised training in diagnostic ultrasound imaging from Selvi School of Sonology and reproductive medicine from Institute of Reproductive Medicine and Women’s Health, MMM Hospital. With a passion for research, Dr. Revathi has contributed significantly to scientific literature with publications in prestigious journals and presentations at national conferences. She actively engages in community health initiatives, participating in rural health camps in Chengalpattu and providing free gynecological services in Karaikudi. Her expertise extends to surgical techniques, obstetric emergencies, and patient counseling. Dr. Revathi is also a life member of FOGSI and ISAR.
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Dr. Kavitha Gautham holds an MBBS from Annamalai University, an MS in Obstetrics and Gynecology from Sri Ramachandra Medical College & Research Deemed University, and a Diploma in Reproductive Medicine from University Schleswing-Holstein, Germany.
As the Founder & Director of Bloom Fertility Centre & Bloom Birthing Centre and Medical Director of Bloom Fertility & Healthcare, Dr. Kavitha spearheads initiatives aimed at providing personalized and holistic care to patients.
With several years of expertise in gynaecological laparoscopy surgery, she has performed (approx.) 10,000 deliveries, 10,000 hystero-laparoscopy surgeries, and more than 5,000 IVF cycles to date. She is a Life Member of the European Society of Reproductive Medicine & Indian Society of Reproductive Medicine, All India Congress of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Obstetric and Gynaecological Society of Southern India, Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India, and the Indian Medical Association. She is a Fellow from the Indian College of Obstetrics & Gynaecology and International Medical Science Academy, and FIMSA.
Dr. Kavitha has been the recipient of several awards, including the prestigious J.L. Javeri Award (AICOG, 2005), Excellence in Healthcare – Infertility & IVF Treatments award (The Chennai City ICON Awards, 2019), WONDER FOGSIAN award (FOGSI, 2019).
Dr. Kavitha has also presented research papers at prestigious conferences including ISAR and IMSACON and has been published in esteemed journals such as the ‘Journal of Clinical Diagnostic Research’.
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Dr. Aravind Ravichandran is as a distinguished fertility specialist, bearing credentials from renowned institutions such as Christian Medical College and Monash University. He is well known for his expertise spanning reproductive endocrinology, ART planning, and gynecological surgeries. His commitment to advancing knowledge is seen through presentations at international conferences like ESHRE and Kolhapur Obstetrics and Gynaecology Society, where he’s delved into topics such as DNA repair gene expression and dietary patterns' impact on ART outcomes. He also serves as faculty at the Oasis School of Embryology. Dr. Aravind has been honoured with several prestigious accolades, including Sri T. Rajagopal Memorial Endowment and Dr. R.E.S. Muthiah Memorial Gold Medal. His publications in journals such as the Human Reproduction Open and Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics underscore his dedication to research. Dr. Aravind interests also include areas such as male infertility and onco-fertility.
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Dr. Revathi is an Obstetrician and Gynecologist with a rich academic background and extensive clinical experience. She holds an MS in Obstetrics and Gynecology from Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, and has pursued specialised training in diagnostic ultrasound imaging from Selvi School of Sonology and reproductive medicine from Institute of Reproductive Medicine and Women’s Health, MMM Hospital. With a passion for research, Dr. Revathi has contributed significantly to scientific literature with publications in prestigious journals and presentations at national conferences. She actively engages in community health initiatives, participating in rural health camps in Chengalpattu and providing free gynecological services in Karaikudi. Her expertise extends to surgical techniques, obstetric emergencies, and patient counseling. Dr. Revathi is also a life member of FOGSI and ISAR.
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After graduating with an MMBS from Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, in 2017, Dr. Kousica pursued advanced studies, earning an M.S in Obstetrics and Gynaecology from Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital in 2022. Complementing this expertise was a Diploma and Fellowship in Minimal Access Surgery (MAS) from World Laparoscopy Hospital, Delhi. With a focus on advancing medical knowledge, Dr. M. Kousica has authored impactful publications, including papers on pre-eclampsia and rare genetic disorders, published in renowned journals. She has also presented findings on infertility and reproductive health at prestigious conferences, contributing to the global discourse on women’s health. Currently specializing in infertility, Dr. Kousica is dedicated to providing compassionate care and innovative solutions to patients.
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Dr. Arun Ganesh is a Pediatric Emergency Medicine specialist, with a STEP Fellowship and a Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Pediatric Emergency Medicine, in addition to an MD in Pediatrics and MBBS. He is skilled in various pediatric emergency procedures, including intubation, venipuncture, and neonatal resuscitation. With extensive experience across esteemed institutions such as Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute and Kanchi Kamakoti CHILDS Trust Hospital, he has demonstrated a commitment to excellence in academic and professional pursuits. Dr. Arun Ganesh’s dedication to advancing medical knowledge is evident through numerous paper and poster presentations at national and international conferences, as well as publications in renowned journals. He is also a certified instructor in Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) and Neonatal Advanced Life Support (NALS).
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Dr. Rufina. J is a compassionate pediatrician dedicated to providing comprehensive care for children's health and well-being at BloomLife Hospital. She is equipped with a solid foundation in pediatric medicine, holding an MD in Pediatrics from Chettinad Academy of Research and Education (CARE), Chettinad University, and an MBBS from Sri Muthukumaram Medical College and Research Institute, Tamilnadu MGR University. Driven by zeal for teaching and research, Dr. Rufina has completed advanced courses in Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) and Basic Neonatal Resuscitation. Her work experience spans from caring for children with minor illnesses to training in specialised areas like Pediatric Pulmonology, Nutrition, and Pediatric Neurology. She has also contributed to pediatric research with a dissertation on the utility of Lung Ultrasound in diagnosing pneumonia, published in the Journal of Neonatology – with findings on pediatric illnesses at national conferences, showcasing her resolve to advancing pediatric medicine.
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Dr. Selvendran Chelladurai is a dedicated Pediatrician and Neonatologist with extensive clinical knowledge and procedural skills. With a commitment to providing high-quality care, Dr. Selvendran aspires to contribute to the growth of organizations while working in challenging environments. During his tenure as an NNF Fellow in Neonatology at Sri Ramachandra Medical Centre, Chennai, he gained comprehensive experience in resuscitation, various procedures, ventilation strategies, and developmental supportive care for high-risk deliveries. He has also excelled in handling metabolic diseases and providing counselling to caregivers. Dr. Selvendran has contributed to the medical literature with publications like International Journal of Current Advanced Research (IJCAR) and International Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics, on topics like accidental levothyroxine poisoning and chikungunya in infants. He has also presented at prestigious conferences and seminars like NEOCORE and PAEDNATCON, showcasing their expertise and commitment to advancing pediatric medicine.
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Dr. Sayed Asarudeen is a skilled pediatrician with expertise in mechanical ventilation, central line insertion, chest tube insertion, and parental nutrition. With fluency in English, Tamil, Bengali, and Hindi, he ensures effective communication with diverse patient populations. Having served as a Senior Resident at NICY, Department of Pediatrics, District Hospital, Kolkata, Dr. Sayed gained invaluable experience in neonatology. He furthered his expertise through a Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Neonatology at Rainbow Children Hospital, Chennai, and National Neonatal Forum (NNF).
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Dr. Sayed Asarudeen is a skilled pediatrician with expertise in mechanical ventilation, central line insertion, chest tube insertion, and parental nutrition. With fluency in English, Tamil, Bengali, and Hindi, he ensures effective communication with diverse patient populations. Having served as a Senior Resident at NICY, Department of Pediatrics, District Hospital, Kolkata, Dr. Sayed gained invaluable experience in neonatology. He furthered his expertise through a Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Neonatology at Rainbow Children Hospital, Chennai, and National Neonatal Forum (NNF).
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Dr. Chittaranjan is a dedicated orthopedic surgeon, with an MBBS from Rajah Muthaiah Medical College & Hospital, followed by a Post Graduate Degree MS in Orthopedics from Madurai Medical College. Dr. Chittaranjan has been at the forefront of orthopedic care in India, with a notable career spanning prestigious institutions such as MAPIMS, MGIMSR, PSG Hospitals, and SRM Medical College. He has also served as an Associate Professor and Chief Orthopedic Consultant, contributing significantly to academic and clinical advancements.
In addition to being an accomplished researcher, with several papers presented at renowned conferences like TNOACON and OASISCON, his expertise encompasses a wide array of orthopedic procedures, including arthroscopy, joint replacement, spine, and trauma surgeries. Currently, Dr. Chittaranjan is engaged in ongoing research projects focused on innovations in fracture management, regenerative orthopedics, and tissue engineering for cartilage and meniscus regeneration.
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Dr. Harun Kumar is a skilled orthopedic surgeon who holds an MBBS from SRM Medical College, an MD Ortho from PSG Institute of Medical Science, and a DNB in Orthopaedic Surgery from BIRRD. With membership in the Indian Medical Association and Tamil Nadu Medical Council registration, Dr. Arun maintains high professional standards. Having served as a Junior Resident at MAPIMS and currently as a Senior Resident at ACS Medical College, he possesses expertise in trauma cases, hip joint fractures, amputations, and closed nailing procedures.
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Dr. Swarna Ganesan is an AYUSH physician, with a Bachelors of Naturopathy and Yogic sciences from Dr. MGR Medical University, Tamil Nadu. She is a registered holistic health practitioner for naturopathy and yoga under CCRYN (central council of research in naturopathy and yoga), Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India. Dr. Swarna completed her fellowship in clinical research under the National Institute of Naturopathy), Pune, and worked as Research Officer, Principal Investigator for 14 research projects corresponding to yoga and normal delivery practices, PCOD and other women health issues. She has published research papers in competent medical journals and presented her work in over 25 national and international conferences. Dr. Swarna is also a trained labour doula under CAPPA, and is well known for her commitment to helping mothers have a safe and positive birthing experience.
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Dr. Paul Rafson Jani is a dedicated Anaesthetist and Intensivist. Throughout his medical career, he has focused tirelessly on critical care procedures such as intubation, extubation, central and peripheral venous cannulation, tracheostomy, intercostal tube insertion, and ultrasound-guided regional blocks, Dr. Paul ensures comprehensive care for patients in critical conditions. His work history reflects a hands-on approach to patient management, from recording medical histories to administering specialised treatments and creating individualised treatment plans. Dr. Paul excels in team collaboration, research, and training, ensuring the highest standards of care. With certifications in ACLS and BLS, he is dedicated to maintaining excellence in patient care and emergency response.
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Dr. Vinu Bharathi Loganathan brings with her extensive experience from renowned institutions like Apollo First Med Hospitals and Karthik Hospitals, with a focus on diverse emergency cases. Dr. Loganathan excels in triage, assessment, and evidence-based treatment delivery. Her proficiency extends to procedural sedation, ICU management, and spearheading departments. Dr. Vinu Bharathi has been certified by the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (U.K.) and holds a Diploma in Emergency Medicine. She actively contributes to medical education, conducting workshops and training sessions, and has trained over a hundred paramedics in ACLS and BLS. With certifications in ACLS, BLS, and PALS and fluency in English and Tamil, Dr. Vinu Bharathi embodies flexibility, positivity, and strong judgment, ensuring optimal patient care.
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Dr. Kavitha Gautham holds an MBBS from Annamalai University, an MS in Obstetrics and Gynecology from Sri Ramachandra Medical College & Research Deemed University, and a Diploma in Reproductive Medicine from University Schleswing-Holstein, Germany.
With several years of expertise in gynaecological laparoscopy surgery, she has performed (approx.) 10,000 deliveries, 10,000 hystero-laparoscopy surgeries, and more than 5,000 IVF cycles to date. She is a Life Member of the European Society of Reproductive Medicine & Indian Society of Reproductive Medicine, All India Congress of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Obstetric and Gynaecological Society of Southern India, Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India, and the Indian Medical Association. She is a Fellow from the Indian College of Obstetrics & Gynaecology and International Medical Science Academy, and FIMSA.
Dr. Kavitha has been the recipient of several awards, including the prestigious J.L. Javeri Award (AICOG, 2005), Excellence in Healthcare – Infertility & IVF Treatments award (The Chennai City ICON Awards, 2019), WONDER FOGSIAN award (FOGSI, 2019).
Dr. Kavitha has also presented research papers at prestigious conferences including ISAR and IMSACON and has been published in esteemed journals such as the ‘Journal of Clinical Diagnostic Research’.
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Dr. Aiswarya Nair is a dedicated and accomplished general medicine practitioner with a passion for improving patient care. She is a gold medalist MD graduate from the Vinayaka Mission’s Kirupananda Variyar Medical College. Prior to this, she earned her MBSS from Rajah Muthiah Medical College Hospital. With a career spanning over a decade, Dr. Aiswarya Nair has held various academic and clinical positions, including that of Assistant Professor of General Medicine at Dr. Somervell Memorial Medical College and Hospital, and currently as Associate Professor at Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Hospital, Chennai. Her research contributions include publications on topics such as ‘Infection in the elderly’ and ‘Severe sepsis-related acute kidney injury’. Driven by a commitment to excellence, Dr. Nair seeks to leverage her expertise as a physician, aiming to enhance patient outcomes and contribute positively to the healthcare community.
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