Birth Control Specialist

What are some birth control options to choose from?

Thanks to advancements in medical technology, women have an astounding range of options when it comes to birth control. One way to narrow down the choices is to think about whether you’d prefer a barrier method that prevents pregnancy by blocking sperm from reaching an egg or a hormonal method that alters your hormonal balance to reduce the risk of pregnancy. 

Barrier methods

Barrier method birth control is appealing to women who don’t want to alter their natural hormonal balance. Some examples include:

• Male condoms
• Female condoms
• Birth control sponges
• Cervical caps
• Diaphragms

Adding spermicide to a barrier method of birth control provides an even greater level of protection against unwanted pregnancy. 

Hormonal methods

Hormonal method birth control can help reduce bleeding and cramping for some women, and it sometimes helps control acne breakouts. Some examples include:

• Birth control pills
• Shots
• Vaginal rings
• Intrauterine devices (IUDs)
• Birth control implants
• Patches

For women who are certain they do not want a future pregnancy, tubal ligation is an option that permanently prevents pregnancy. 

How do I know which option is the right fit for my needs?

If you’ve been using the same birth control method for a while now, you owe it to yourself to learn about the latest options. Finding the right form of birth control is a personal process, but there’s truly a great fit for everyone. 

Women who have multiple sexual partners may want to use condoms as a primary method of birth control. Male and female condoms are the only form of birth control that also protect against sexually transmitted diseases. 

Women who have heavy periods or disruptive menstrual symptoms may want to consider a birth control prescription that has a good chance of reducing bleeding. It can take a process of trial and error to find the right fit for your body chemistry, so be patient. 

Which types of birth control don’t require active monitoring?

Unlike having to take a daily pill or remember to keep condoms on hand, some birth control methods require very little in the way of active participation. The birth control implant is a great option for women who are certain they don’t want to get pregnant soon. Once inserted in a quick in-office procedure, the implant will provide protection for three years.

A hormonal-based IUD can last 3-5 years, and versions made of copper can prevent unwanted pregnancy for a decade. These devices are placed during an in-office visit and checked during your routine well-woman exams. 

When you’re ready to learn more about your options, call the office to set up a visit. Online booking is also available and is quick and easy.