Today’s woman has several contraceptive options available. The choice of a birth control method is dictated by medical history and personal preference. We provide all currently available forms of birth control including pills, the vaginal ring, the patch, injection, intrauterine devices, subdermal implants, and the diaphragm.
Oral contraceptives are the most popular reversible method in the United States. Most commonly They consist of a combination of hormones known as progestins and estrogen. They prevent ovulation and this is their main method of preventing pregnancy. They also work by thickening cervical mucus and rendering the lining of the uterus less hospitable for implantation of the fertilized egg. Certain medical conditions and habits such as smoking may impact your ability to use pills. As such a complete history and examination prior to starting oral contraceptives may be a good idea. Pills are usually taken on a daily basis. In most formulations, The hormones combined with a placebo will allow menstruation on a monthly basis. Other formulations may extend the interval between periods for as long as 90 days. There are numerous brand names and generic formulations so your doctor can help in guiding your choice.
The vaginal ring and the transdermal patch also contain estrogen and progestin and therefore have side effects similar to oral contraceptives. The ring is inserted into the vagina for three weeks and is left out on the fourth week of the month allowing menstruation.
The patch is placed on the skin on a weekly basis and is left off on the fourth week also allowing menstruation.
Subdermal implant contraception ( Nexplanon ) is placed under the skin of the forearm with local anesthesia in a short office visit. It works by slowly releasing a long-acting progestin throughout the body. This hormone acts to inhibit ovulation thicken cervical mucus and change the lining of the uterus. Menstruation may be reduced or even stopped. It is replaced every 3 years.
A variety of Intrauterine devices IUDs are now available. IUDs are inserted into the uterus and can remain for up to 10 years. This is done in a 5-minute office visit and no anesthesia is required. One category of IUDs is impregnated with hormones that act on the lining of the uterus and do not go throughout the body. The other type has a copper base material which provokes a reaction that prevents the survival of sperm.
Barrier methods such as diaphragms and cervical caps are now used less often but are still available. You will need to be fitted by your doctor for proper use.
We are committed to providing you with all the resources you need in making this important and very personal choice.