Contraception Specialist
What should be considered when deciding on a birth control method?
Each woman’s priorities and health concerns are different when it comes to contraception. Consider the following when making your decision:
- How often are you sexually active?
- Are you in a monogamous relationship?
- Do you want to get pregnant now, in the future, or never?
- Is convenience a priority?
Of course, the effectiveness of each method is an important factor when settling on a contraceptive method, too.
You should be comfortable with the delivery. For example, be realistic in understanding if you can remember to take a pill every day or if you’re willing to insert a diaphragm before intercourse.
What types of contraception are available?
The options for contraception are plentiful and include:
- Intrauterine devices (IUDs)
- Pills
- Hormonal implants
- Injections
- Patches
- Tubal ligation
- Barrier methods
- Fertility monitoring
Discuss your needs with the doctors at Elite Women’s Care to learn which option might be best for you. Many methods, such as an IUD or the pill, are exceptionally effective at preventing pregnancy but don’t protect you from sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
What are the benefits of hormonal birth control?
Hormonal birth control includes IUDs (such as Mirena®), implants (such as Nexplanon®) the pill, patch, shots, and vaginal rings. In addition to preventing pregnancy, hormonal birth control can offer benefits to your health, such as:
- Less acne
- Lighter periods
- Fewer menstrual cramps
Decreased risk of certain cancers, pelvic inflammatory disease, and iron-deficiency anemia
Hormonal birth control is often part of a treatment plan if you have endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or ovarian cysts.
What types of birth control protect against STDs?
The male and female condoms are the only forms of birth control that offer some protection against the contraction of a sexually transmitted disease.
Because condoms aren’t the most reliable way to prevent pregnancy, use dual protection if you’re not in a mutually monogamous relationship.
This entails using a condom along with a more reliable method, such as an IUD or the pill, to keep you free of infection and prevent an unplanned pregnancy.
Trust the team at Elite Women’s Care when you’re making a decision about the type of contraception to use. Call the office or set up a consultation using the online tool.