Modern Contraceptives for Population Control

Modern Contraceptives as an Effective Tool for Population Control in the Philippines

A Research Paper Presented to Prof. April Antonio Mapua Institute of Technology Makati

In partial fulfillment Of the requirements in English for Academic Purposes 2 (ENG11)

By: Kim M. Alvarez Sarah M. Espia Ashley K. Hernandez Reginald W. Macalindong

March 2011

Modern Contraceptives for Population Control

Acknowledgement

The researchers would like to thank and extend their deepest gratitude for making this research all possible to the following: First and foremost, to Prof. April Antonio for guiding and teaching the researchers on how to make a holistic research paper, and also for his patience in teaching the art and skill of how to fully complete a research paper, to Prof. Perez form the Nursing Department of Mapua Institute of Technology for explaining to us and enlightening us further about the use of contraceptives and its effects on the users, to Enrico Cuaresma and opinion and concern about the Shiori growing Bermundo rate of for giving us their in the

population

here

Philippines, to each and every one of the researchers for having the patience and motivation to finish and to have completed the research. The researchers would also like to thank the Mapua Institute of Technology library for

providing some sources for the chosen topic, to the librarians and staff of the MIT library for guiding and orienting the researchers, the researches parents for supporting us all the way during the time of production of this research paper. And lastly, the researchers would like to thank the most highest for the guidance and undying love.

A.M.K. S.M.E. A.K.H. R.W.M.

Modern Contraceptives for Population Control

Abstract

With the turbulent crisis that out country is facing right now, such as extreme poverty, malnutrition and lack of employment and education, there is a dire need for a drastic change within the society. The core of our

countrys crisis is centered on the vast growth of population. A person reproduced each year is equivalent to another mouth to feed, higher demands for jobs in the market, and more rooms to spare for formal education. All

crises are intertwined and point to a common resolution, and that is through an effective family planning method. Using contraceptives as a tool for family planning are both safe and effective. Contraceptives guarantees a lesser probability of getting

pregnant compared to the natural family planning method which depends on the natural signs and symptoms occurring in a womens body. planning can easily backfire if not observed rigorously. The researchers believe that implementing further education on the Natural family

usage of contraceptives, and providing contraceptives for the consumption of the public will strongly improve the possible population growth in the near future. This in turn will benefit other factors influenced by overpopulation

such as poverty.

Modern Contraceptives for Population Control

Outline

1.0

Introduction 1.1 Background about the Philippine economy and population 1.2 The need for population control due to poverty

2.0

Body 2.1 Definition of contraceptives 2.1.1 Kinds of contraceptives 2.1.2 Effectiveness of contraceptives 2.1.3 Other benefits of contraceptives 2.2 2.3 Current family planning methods practiced by Filipinos Contrast between natural family planning and family

planning though contraceptives 3.0 Conclusion 3.1 3.2 Benefits of modern contraceptive method in the economy Population control

Modern Contraceptives for Population Control

Introduction

Background Every citizen in the Philippines is aware that the country is currently facing a nationwide problem that regards its population. According to the International Data Base, the Philippines ranked 12th place in the list of most populated countries, with China being number one but compared to China, and other countries, the Philippines has smaller land territories. The country is already overpopulated and the gradual change in the countrys growth rate is not much of a help in the problem. In the last three years, the Philippine Census claims an estimated population of 90,136,000 for the year 2008; 91,817,500 for the year 2009; and 93,506,600 for the year 2010. The data shows a total amount of 1,769,400 population growth from 2008 to 2009; and 1,786,600 from 2009 to 2010. Based on the statistics shown, the countrys population is more likely to increase in millions or even billions in the next couple of years. In turn, the country is anticipating a need to increase workforce and production of food and resources despite of poverty and scarce resources. The Republic of the Philippines is a third world country and is already struggling in keeping up with the development of the society especially

during this modern age. The Filipino citizens, particularly families between the lower demographics, are experiencing poverty and famine. Youll see

skinny children roaming around the streets naked, in hopes to find something to eat; some children even die from reported cases of extreme malnutrition. Other families depend on spoiled food that they find in garbage cans. These instances are most common in urban places. A surprising irony is that those families who dont know where to get dinner every night are those who produce

Modern Contraceptives for Population Control

children by the dozens. It is clear that family planning and population control is essential in these present times. Poverty is a significant problem that poses a serious threat to the stability in the Philippines. The more the population increases, the more poverty is bound to amplify. And all this could be solved if the growth of birth rate would lessen in its figures, and that is through the help of family planning.

Statement of the Problem This research aims to identify the difference between the natural

method of family planning and modern method of family planning with the help of contraceptives. This research specifically answers the following questions: 1. Why is there a need to have family planning in the Philippines? 2. How will the use of contraceptives effectively resolve these

problems? 3. What other methods of family planning are being practiced by

Filipino families? 4. Is it feasible for the country to patronize modern contraceptive as compared to the traditional natural family planning? 5. What are the opinions of the general public regarding this modern birth control method? 6. How will an effective family planning method help in the development of the Philippines?

Modern Contraceptives for Population Control

Thesis Statement

In the end of this research, the proponents will prove that modern contraceptives are more effective than natural family planning in population control in the Philippines.

Significance of the study This research is significant to people living in the Philippines,

particularly to families who seek help and understanding on how to plan for the future of their families. This research is also significant to companies who develop

contraceptives and tools that aid in the modern way of family planning. This is for the companies to know that it is important to have the best quality of products in order to avoid any chances of misfortunes that will lead to unexpected pregnancies and and the like. This that research supports also and target guides

groups,

organizations

individual

enthusiast

people in this modern way of family planning. With the ongoing debate on the enactment of the Reproductive Health Bill, this study would also serve as a supporting evidence and documentation on whether or not the bill would benefit the people and therefore should be enacted as a law.

Modern Contraceptives for Population Control

Body 2.1 Definition of contraceptives

An individuals decision on child-bearing comes with the choice of contraception. The researchers have gathered data amongst varied sources to compile a more thorough and clear definition of contraceptives: All forms of contraceptives serve the purpose of preventing pregnancy. In a more detailed medical term, contraception prevents the male sperm from fertilizing the female egg cell. Although the other direct purpose of

contraception is still debatable for its moral implications, other methods of contraception keep the fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus; the process of fertilized egg implanted is where pregnancy begins and human life forms. (Knox and Schacht, 2009) According to http://www.beltina.org, contraception is also called birth control. With any of its varied methods, it is intended for sexually active men and women, together with their partners, to prevent as well as plan pregnancies. To optimize protection from pregnancy, many people opt to

combine methods. An example would be using barrier forms of contraception, such as condom, together chemical methods like spermicides.

All contraceptive techniques are barrier methods. That is, they erect a barrier of some type that prevents pregnancy.

Sometimes the barrier is time: a couple estimates when the woman is about to release an ovum and does not engage in sexual

intercourse for an interval before and after that event.

Modern Contraceptives for Population Control

Sometimes the barrier is mechanical in nature. For example, sperm are prevented from entering the womb by a layer of latex, as in a condom or diaphragm.

Sometimes

the

barrier pill will

is

chemical prevent

in

nature. or

An will

emergency prevent

contraceptive fertilization.

ovulation,

The

Roman

Catholic

and

very

few

very

conservative

Protestant

denominations prohibit all but the time barrier methods. Only this method is considered natural and acceptable to these faith groups. (Schwartz and

Gabelnick, 2002)

2.1.1 Kinds of contraceptives

The kinds of contraceptives can be classified into its type of methods. For the purpose of the study, the researchers classified these types of methods according to its nature which are: mechanical, chemical, and natural or time method barrier. The researchers had gathered data on different types of contraceptives under each method. I. Mechanical-barrier method The purpose of this type of method is to mechanically hinder the male sperm to enter the womb of their female partners during a sexual intercourse. A. Male Condom Male condoms are either made of latex, polyurethane, or natural animal membranes. It is the most common mechanical contraceptive. The condom works by placing it over an erect penis before an intercourse, acting as a physical

Modern Contraceptives for Population Control

10

barrier that keeps sperm from entering the womans uterus. This happens when a man ejaculates and sperm are caught inside the condom. This method is highly effective when combined with spermicide lubricant; placed either on reservoir tip of the condom or a spermicidal agent that is used by a woman. Individuals are more likely to use condoms with casual than with stable partners (Morrison et al, 2003). B. Female Condom The female counterpart of a condom fits in the womans vagina, which is like the male condom it is also lubricated and is made of polyutherine. The placement of this type of condom can be done up to eight hours before any sexual activity; allowing for greater room for spontaneity. It is about six inches long with flexible rings at both ends; it is used by inserting the inner ring in the females vagina. The inner ring should fit behind the pubic bone against the cervix. Although it also acts as a physical barrier like a male condom, it is said to be more durable and may not tear as easily C. Intra-uterine Devices For pro-life advocators, the use of Intra-uterine devices is believed to be an abortifacient. Despite the argument, physicians still consider this method as a form of contraceptive. Popularly known as IUDs, its a device that may allow fertilization of the egg but prevents it from implantation on the uterus. This structural device is inserted by the physician and is said to protect against pregnancy for about five years. D. Diaphragm It is a shallow rubber dome attached to a flexible, circular steel and spring that is inserted into the vagina. The diaphragm covers the cervix and

Modern Contraceptives for Population Control

11

prevents the sperm from moving into the uterus. This method is often used with spermicidal agents to kill any sperm that comes in contact. E. Cervical Cap It is a thimble-shaped device made of rubber or polyethylene. Cervical cap is like a diaphragm that fits over the cervix and held in place by suction. It is also used in conjunction with spermicidal agents to prevent sperm from entering the uterus. II. Chemical-barrier method A. Oral Contraceptive Agents (Birth Control Pills) Among all the nonsurgical forms of contraceptives, the birth control pill is most commonly used. There are two types of available oral

contraceptive: the combination pill and minipill. Both type of birth control pill works by raising the natural level of hormones of the female body. The change in hormonal level inhibits fertilized egg in the uterus. B. Contraceptive Implants These are contraceptive silicone implants that are inserted under the skin. The implants in the upper inner arm provide time-release progestin into the system for contraception. This method provides pregnancy protection for almost three years. C. Injections Widely known as injectibles, it is made of synthetic compound similar to the hormone progesterone that is injected to a womans arm or buttocks. The method prevents ovulation and protects against pregnancy for three months time. ovulation and hampers implantation of

Modern Contraceptives for Population Control

D. Vaginal Rings Vaginal rings are soft, flexible ring worn inside the

12

vagina. The

device gives month-long protection against pregnancy by releasing hormones into the system absorbed first three weeks. D. Transdermal Application (Patch Method) It is a kind of method that delivers hormone into the body through skin absorption. Contraceptive patch worn on strategic body parts for three weeks, the patch was found to be effectively adhesive despite rigorous activities. E. Vaginal Spermicides Spermicides are chemical that kills sperms and comes in different in forms like foam, cream, jelly, film, and suppository. This method is

available even without medical prescription and does not manipulate a womans hormonal level. F.Contraceptive Sponge A disc-shaped polyurethane device that contains spermicide, that is dampened with water to activate the spermicide and inserted into the vagina before a sexual intercourse. G.Emergency Contraceptives Also known as post-coital contraception, which refers to various types of morning-after pills that are used in primary circumstances: after an

unwanted sex like rape case, when contraceptives fails, and after unprotected sex. The pills are usually taken within 72 hours of intercourse.

Modern Contraceptives for Population Control

III. Time-Barrier Methods (Natural Family Planning) A.Periodic Abstinence

13

No other types of contraceptive method are used. The couple enjoys periodic sexual intercourse with diminishing their chances of getting

pregnant by the less time they involve in sexual activity. B.Withdrawal Also known as coitus interruptus, it is a practice where a man

withdraws his penis from a womans vagina before an ejaculation. It requires no chemical or device, but it is very much less effective in preventing pregnancy as a large number of sperms are present in the lubricating fluid that is discharged before ejaculation. C.Rhythm Method Rumored as the Vatican Roulette, the technique requires the woman to take note of her menstrual cycle. To estimate the next release of a mature ovum the average length of her menstrual period is accounted. If the method is successful, it prevents the sperm and mature ovum to be present in the fallopian tube at the same time. Though quite unreliable, because of the other factors that might cause irregularity of the timing of the release of the ovum, it is basically the only method supported by the Roman Catholic teachings.

2.1.2 Other benefits of contraceptives Contraceptives are used mainly for birth control, but there are other ways people can get advantage of it. For example, to minimize the risk of getting a sexually transmitted disease known as STD due to unprotected sexual

Modern Contraceptives for Population Control

14

intercourse, specifically with the men. Women also can lower their risk of developing ovarian cysts, ectopic pregnancy, menstrual cramps, and rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, oral contraceptives could help regulate the womens menstrual cycle if its irregular. Not only can contraceptives prevent

pregnancy, but they could also be beneficial in other ways in minimizing sexual related illnesses and diseases. 2.1.3 Effectiveness of contraceptives

2.2 Current family planning methods practiced by Filipinos Most Planning Filipino families NFP practice does not what we call the Natural or drugs Family to be

method

(NFP).

involve

any

money

observed. The NFP "refers to those methods based on knowledge of the womans fertile and infertile periods without using any artificial means of

intervention." (Textbook on Family Planning, 2001, p. 164) This includes modern methods such as basal temperature, cervical mucus, sympto-thermal, and the conventional calendar method or rhythm method. These methods are based on a woman's menstrual cycle. It depends on the occurring signs and symptom that indicate if the woman is fertile or not. The Basal Body temperature charting is recording the body temperature which helps indicate when ovulation of the female has occurred. This method

requires charting the basal body temperature (BBT), which is the temperature the body registers when a women is completely at rest. .A woman's body temperature is lower during the first part of the menstrual cycle. In most females, it temperature slightly rises when ovulation occurs and remains up during the second to part just before the next menstrual cycle occurs.

According

http://www.babyhopes.com/articles/basal-body-temperature-

Modern Contraceptives for Population Control

charting.html ,

15

"for most women, 96 to 98 degrees taken orally is considered

normal before ovulation and 97 to 99 after. The changes are small fractions from 1/10 to 1/2 degree. So its best to get a special, large-scale, easy-toread basal thermometer that registers only from 96 to 100 degrees". The cervical mucus is a liquid excreted in the cervix of a woman. Cervical mucus changes are monitored to determine when ovulation is about to occur. As the women's cycle progresses, the cervical mucus increases in volume and changes its texture. A woman is considered most fertile when the mucus becomes clear, slippery, and stretchy. http://www.babyhopes.com/articles/cervical-

mucus.html On the other hand, the sympto-termal method is a combination of recording a woman's BBT and cervical mucus changes. The calendar method, which is the most common NFP practice, is recording the length of each menstrual cycle in order to determine if a woman is fertile. This includes keen observation on the first day of the periods occurrence, the number of days of the menstruation, and the day it ends. This will allow a female to have an idea when the next menstrual cycle is likely to occur. There are a number of reasons why Filipino families prefer to observe the NFP methods than using contraceptives. According to the textbook on

Family planning (Textbook on Family Planning, 2001, p.166), there are five main socio-cultural reasons for non-use of contraception as derived from a survey. The first one is having experienced or fear of side effects. Birth control pill, intraurine device (IUD) and injectibles are said to disrupt the menstrual cycle. The second is due to widespread perceptions and beliefs about potential hazards based on concepts of anatomy and physiology." They believe that usage of contraceptives can cause imbalance to the body and may lead to sickness. The third reason is "the sexual modesty of women is

offended by the medical examination and consultation required for the use of modern contraceptives", that is, women dislike touching their genitals which

Modern Contraceptives for Population Control

is needed when using diaphragm, jellies and foams as

16
contraception. The

fourth reason is being embarrassed to buy and keep contraceptives as this displays a person's sexual behavior which some, or majority, may perceive as indecent, unless kept private. The last reason is associating the use of

condoms to venereal disease, usually when consorting with prostitutes or random people involved in hook-ups. Some may get insulted when ask to use condoms, perceiving oneself to be accused of caring diseases such as STDs. 2.3 Contrast between natural family planning and family planning through contraceptives "The general principle behind all family planning method is to prevent male sperm cell from uniting with the female egg." (Textbook on Family

Planning, 2001, p.127). There is no one method that suits every married couple. All family planning and birth control methods have disadvantages and advantages. Often, a couple may try several methods before finding what suits them most. All methods have different degrees of efficacy, so it is best to do keen research before undergoing such methods, even the NFP. The main difference between the NFP and family planning through

contraceptives is that contraceptives involve external factors, and the NFP depends on natural occurring signs and symptoms. However no method is

guaranteed to have 100% efficacy, all have varying effects on individuals. The NFP method "requires instruction and follow up by competent instruction in pinpointing the exact dates of ovulation, on which determination of safe and unsafe days of intercourse hinges" (Textbook on Family Planning, 2008, p.165) NFP requires a surmountable amount of knowledge and skill, whereas, a

contraceptive method offers a high degree of protection without consideration of ovulation date and time, as long as it is correctly and consistently used. Pregnancy is most possible in NFP if abstinence is not observed during days

Modern Contraceptives for Population Control

of fertility in the menstrual cycle. As stated in textbook for

17
family

planning (p.171) about the effectiveness of contraceptives, The failure rate per 100 woman years of use by perfect or constant users of a method of birth control will be lower than failure rate per 100 total woman years of use of method i.e, among the total users or actually users of a method are women (or men) who use the method carelessly or inconsistently.

Modern Contraceptives for Population Control

Conclusion The researchers conclude that using modern contraceptives is

18

an

effective tool to control population growth in the country, as compared to the natural family method that is currently being practiced by Filipino

citizens undergoing family planning. The Philippines is currently in its worst state with poverty,

malnutrition, and lack of jobs and education. The future holds a greater threat if this problem is disregarded. Implementing further education on the usage of contraceptives, and possibly providing these items for the public to use would leave us anticipating for a decline in population growth in the future. This research includes facts, tips and helpful instructions on how to properly use contraceptives. There are many types of contraceptives; all it takes is proper education and knowledge on how and what birth control items and methods to undertake. People today are currently living in an era where change is occurring everywhere, even in culture. Change is not bad, sometimes change brings

nothing but good fortune to those who are not afraid to try something new for better productivity. The people need proper education on how to use contraceptives,

resources provided by the government for easier access to contraceptives, and more importantly, a huge amount of discipline and cooperation to relieve the current state of the Philippines. This in turn, will benefit factors

associated with overpopulation such as poverty, malnutrition, and lack of food and resources resulting to a healthier and conducive society.

Modern Contraceptives for Population Control

Index

19

COMMON METHODS OF CONTRACEPTION Male or Female Effectiveness When Used Correctly 85 percent when woman has not had vaginal CHILDBIRTH 70 percent when woman has had vaginal childbirth

Method

Availability

Ease of Use must insert before SEXUAL INTERCOURSE must use with spermicide must remove after specified time must insert before sexual intercourse must use with spermicide must remove after specified time must put on before each sexual act must withdraw from partner and remove condom for disposal while PENIS remains erect female condom may be difficult to insert challenging woman applies once a month

cervical cap

female

prescription only; healthcare provider must measure and fit

cervical shield

female

prescription only

85 percent

condom

male most over the common; counter (OTC) female available

male condom: 85 to 98 percent female condom: 80 to 95 percent

continuous abstinence contraceptive patch

both female

personal commitment prescription only

100 percent 99.9 percent

contraceptive ring

female

prescription only

contraceptive sponge female

OTC

woman inserts during MENSTRUATION, leaves in place 3 weeks, then removes must insert before sexual intercourse must remove after specified

98 percent

65 to 90 percent

Modern Contraceptives for Population Control

time depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) injection prescription only; healthcare provider must administer prescription only; healthcare provider must measure and fit received every 12 weeks must insert before sexual intercourse must use with spermicide must remove after specified time requires diligent effort from both partners requires no attention once inserted can stay in the UTERUS for 5 to 12 years, depending on type daily or weekly pill must apply before each sexual act requires no effort after OPERATION permanent requires no effort after operation permanent

20

female

99.9 percent

diaphragm

female

85 to 94 percent

fertility awareness

both

personal commitment

75 to 99 percent

intrauterine device (IUD)

female

prescription only; healthcare provider must insert

99 percent

oral contraceptives spermicide

female female

prescription only OTC

99 percent 70 to 85 percent nearly 100 percent (1 in 300 failure rate) nearly 100 percent (1 in 500 failure rate)

tubal ligation

female

requires surgery requires inoffice operative procedure

vasectomy

male

Modern Contraceptives for Population Control

Interview

21

Interviewers: The Researchers Interviewees: Enricon Cuaresma (MIT Student), Shiori Bermundo (MIT Student), Ali (MIT Student), Ms. Perez (MIT Nursing Department Professor Interview Script: Sarah: What do you think about the country's population? Enrico Cuaresma: I think the countrys population is really getting out of hand. Its really hard for the government to control the population. Shiori Bermundo: I think the country is very over populated already, so our economy is getting worse every year. Ashley: are you in favor of using contraceptives to co? Ali: Yes, I am in favor of using contraceptives. Its because nowadays we can see people are not able to fulfill their desires, so through contraceptives, they can also satisfy what they want and through that they can control the overpopulation of the country and that is the advantage of contraceptives. Kim: This is Prof. Perez the Nursing Department of Mapua Institute of

Technology. Redge: are there any bad effects of contraceptives and if there are, what are they? Maam Perez: For the natural method, you dont have any bad effects because it is natural. Actually, it depends on the body itself, for the artificial method, condoms have no reported bad effects. However for these who are allergic to latex for the oral contraceptives there are certain bad effects such as for women they can develop complications, sometimes problems in the

Modern Contraceptives for Population Control

22

uterine lining (uterus), thats why it is very important that before you take and before you choose the right contraceptive method, its good to ask your doctor to run some tests, actually it really depends on the body. Interview Analysis Based on the interview conducted, the interviewees state that overpopulation is indeed rampant in the country and there is a need to aid this situation. When the researchers asked if contraceptives are favorable, Ali answered that it is. He mentioned that contraceptives are beneficial in a sense that it will not hinder people from performing sexual activities with their partners and it will also avoid unwanted pregnancy, leading to overpopulation of the country. Ms. Perez, professor of the nursing department of Mapua, explains the

possible bad effects of contraceptives. Condoms do not have any bad effects, only to people who are allergic to latex, and the possible bad effects are for women who might develop problems in the uterus, other than that people must take precaution and consult their doctors. The interview showed that the concept of integrating contraceptives in the lives of people is acceptable for many. Like want an interviewee said, it is an advantage.

Modern Contraceptives for Population Control

References/Sources

23

Contraception Definition.(n.d.). In Beltina, encyclopedia Retrieved January 16, 2011, from

of health.

http://www.beltina.org/health-dictionary/Contraceptiondefinition-types-methods.html Go, P. ( 2009). Benefits of contraceptives. Retrieved from: http://ezinearticles.com/?Benefits-ofContraceptives&id=2213950 Knox, D., & Schacht, C. (2008). Choices in relationships: An introduction to marriage and family (9th ed.). Belmont, California: Wadsworth. (K742008) Robinson, B.A. (2010). Contraceptive methods for regulating fertility. Retrieved from: http://www.religioustolerance.org/abo_contra.htm Quirolgico-Lugue, L., Fe, M., De Leon, M. (2001). Texbook on family planning. Manila, Philippines: Rex Bookstore. (P5Q82001) Birth-Control-

Quirolgico-Lugue, L., Fe, M., De Leon, M. (1995). Texbook on family planning. Manila, Philippines: Rex Bookstore. (P5Q81995)

http://ezinearticles.com/?Benefits-of-Birth-Control-Contraceptives&id=2213950

Modern Contraceptives for Population Control

abtract - sarah intro - redge 2.1 (including the index) - ash 2.2 - kim 2.3 - sarah conclu -redge interview analysis - kim

24