How Birth Control Methods Prevent Fertilization

Medical advances made in recent decades allow individuals to influence the processes of ovulation and conception--both to prevent pregnancy, as well as to prompt it. Couples who do not wish to conceive a child have many options, including hormonal birth control methods and barrier methods, as well as procedures that can permanently prevent pregnancy, including a vasectomy for males or tubal ligation for women. While these options involve surgery, both tubal ligation and vasectomy complications are rare, plus the processes are considered almost 100% reliable. Whether couples intend to conceive or prevent pregnancy, the process of fertilization--or prevention of it--ultimately determines the outcome. Ovulation and Fertilization A woman can become pregnant for approximately five to seven days each month during ovulation, the process during which a mature egg is released from the ovary and travels down the fallopian tubes. Ideally, a female hoping to become pregnant could benefit by estimating the days during which she ovulates. Likewise, to prevent pregnancy, couples can use barrier methods, such as condoms, to prevent sperm from reaching the egg during ovulation--or hormonal methods that prevent the egg from maturing. Once released from the ovary, an egg has about 12 to 48 hours to become fertilized--if this does not occur, the egg breaks down and is shed during the menstrual cycle. Just how long does it take sperm to reach the egg? It is possible for sperm to reach the egg within five minutes, though it can often take up to six hours. In addition, sperm can live inside the mother's uterus and fallopian tube for two to three days. Couples can prevent pregnancy by using various types of birth control, including hormonal and barrier methods that prevent an egg from begin fertilized. Females can also undergo tubal ligation to block the passage of sperm into the fallopian tubes where fertilization occurs. The Role of Semen and Sperm Sperm are the cells that fertilize eggs, and semen is the fluid that supports the delivery and health of sperm. Sperm, on the other hand, are produced in the testicles and, when mature, travel through a tube called the vas deferens. On the way, sperm mixes with semen that contains nutrients and helps deliver sperm to its destination--the female egg. For couples who experience difficulty getting pregnant, physicians can help predict a woman's cycle and insert sperm using medical means to increase the likelihood of fertilization. On the opposite end of the spectrum, couples seeking a permanent--and very reliable--method of preventing pregnancy often choose a vasectomy. A vasectomy takes about 15 minutes, during which the vas deferens is cut. Many men fear vasectomy pain during or after the procedure. During the procedure, anesthetics are used to numb the area; following the procedure, some patients feel discomfort to a dull pain caused by pressure on the epididymis that is treated with pain medication. After the initial recovery period, a man continues to have intercourse and climax--however, his semen no longer contains sperm. The procedure is considered very safe with vasectomy risks low and complications rare. Issues that do arise generally subside with rest and anti-inflammatory medication. Options Today Fortunately for couples today, there are a multitude of options for preventing and enhancing the chances of becoming pregnant. Due to the wide range of costs, convenience, and short-term versus long-term effects, individuals' decisions on birth control options differ widely. For those who need solutions, it is recommended to begin by researching options and then bring questions to an experienced physician or fertility doctor who can guide them on specifics.