Birth Control

What is birth control?

Birth control, also known as contraceptives, refers to methods and devices used to prevent pregnancy. There are various birth control options available, each with its own advantages, considerations, and effectiveness rates. Hormonal birth control can also be used to regulate menstrual cycles, reduce cramps, and lighten bleeding.
Birth control methods can work to prevent pregnancy in different ways, such as:

• Creating a barrier that blocks sperm from reaching the egg
• Preventing eggs from being released by the ovaries
• Changing the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from moving into the uterus
• Altering the tissue lining the uterus so that a fertilized egg cannot implant
• Killing the sperm

*It’s important to note that while most birth control methods are effective, none offer 100% protection against pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Condoms are the only method that provides dual protection against pregnancy and STIs.

What should I expect at my consultation?

Your provider will review your medical history and discuss your lifestyle to help guide you through the different factors you should consider when looking at contraceptive options.
Factors may include:

• Convenience of use
• Effectiveness and duration
• Tolerance for side effects
• Impact on your menstrual cycle
• Prevention of STDs
• Reversibility

Birth Control Types 

• The Pill

Combined oral contraceptives; A daily oral medication containing estrogen and progestin to prevent pregnancy. The pill is also commonly used to regulate menstrual cycles.

• Mini-Pill

Progestin-only pills; A daily oral medication containing only progestin, which thickens cervical mucus and alters the uterine lining. The mini-pill can also help decrease your menstrual flow.

• Hormonal IUD

An intrauterine device that releases progestin to prevent pregnancy. Hormonal IUD’s are inserted in-office by your healthcare provider and can last 3-8 years, depending on the device.

• Copper IUD

A non-hormonal intrauterine device that releases copper to prevent sperm from fertilizing eggs. Copper IUD’s are inserted in-office by your healthcare provider and can last for up to 10 years.

• Implant

A small rod inserted under the skin of the upper arm that releases progestin to prevent pregnancy. The implant is inserted in-office by your healthcare provider and lasts for up to 3 years.

• Injection

Depo Provera is a progestin injection that prevents ovulation. Injections are administered in office by our nursing staff every three months. Depo injections may help decrease your menstrual flow.

• The Ring

A flexible, insertable ring that releases estrogen and progestin to prevent pregnancy. The ring is inserted into the vaginal canal for 3 weeks and then removed for a week.

• The Patch

A patch worn on the skin that releases estrogen and progestin to prevent pregnancy. One patch is applied to the skin for 3 weeks and then removed for a week.

• Male Condom

Thin latex or polyurethane sheaths worn over the penis to prevent sperm from entering the vagina.

• Female Condom

Polyurethane pouch that is inserted into the vagina to provide a barrier against sperm.

• Diaphragm

Dome-shaped device inserted into the vagina to cover the cervix and block sperm from entering.

• Spermicide

Foams or creams that are placed inside the vagina to kill sperm. Can be used with a diaphragm.

• Fertility Awareness

Tracking menstrual cycles, basal body temperature, and cervical mucus to identify fertile and infertile periods. This method has a much high-risk for pregnancy than other available options.

• Emergency Contraception

Also known as the “morning-after pill,” can be used after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure to prevent pregnancy. It is most effective when taken as soon as possible after intercourse.

• Tubal Ligation

A surgical procedure that involves blocking or sealing the fallopian tubes to prevent sperm from reaching the eggs. This is a minimally invasive surgery that is performed in a hospital operating room.

• Male Sterilization

A Vasectomy is the cutting or clamping of the vans deferens, the tubes that carry the sperm from the testes. This procedure permanent and is typically preformed in-office by a Urologist