What are the important things to consider when evaluating contraceptive methods?
Of course, effectiveness may be first and foremost on your mind when you weigh your contraceptive options, but it’s not the only factor to consider. Also keep in mind issues such as:
- Your plans for a family
- Possible side effects
- Comfort for you and your partner
- Convenience and ease of use
- The frequency of sex and your number of partners
- Reversibility
Some birth control options also have additional benefits. For example, certain birth control pills and IUDs may result in lighter menstrual bleeding and less cramping. During contraception counseling, Dr. Ramirez reviews the pros and cons of each method with you to help you make your decision.
What are my birth control options?
Birth control forms usually fall into one of five categories:
Hormonal methods
Hormonal methods include the pill, patch, and injections. These options prevent ovulation (the release of an egg from your ovaries) and/or change the lining of your uterus and cervical mucus so sperm can’t survive.
Intrauterine devices (IUDs)
IUDs are small devices Dr. Ramirez implants into your uterus. Some, such as Mirena®, contain hormones that prevent pregnancy, and others, such as Paragard®, contain copper without hormones to repel sperm.
Barrier methods
Barrier methods prevent the sperm and egg from meeting and include the sponge, condoms, and the diaphragm.
Sterilization
This form is irreversible and includes tubal ligation and male vasectomy.
Natural family planning
This method includes cycle monitoring or cervical mucus observation. You avoid intercourse on what seem to be your most fertile days.
Which of these types of birth control is right for you depends on your lifestyle, moral beliefs, sexual habits, and health. Dr. Ramirez can help you weigh your options. For example, if you’re concerned about sexually transmitted diseases, you need to always use a condom as it’s the only method that protects you from STDs. However, condoms aren’t as reliable as other methods when it comes to preventing pregnancy, so you need another option as well.
Which birth control methods are most effective in preventing pregnancy?
IUDs and implants (such as Nexplanon®) tend to be the most reliable in preventing pregnancy and require very little effort on your part. The pill, ring, injections, and the patch are also up to 99% effective when used consistently and correctly. Sterilization is irreversible but is nearly 100% effective at preventing pregnancy.
Dr. Ramirez guides you in making important contraceptive choices with compassion and expertise. Call Diego Ramirez OBGYN PLLC, or book online for personal birth control guidance.
