Hormonal Contraceptives
Hormonal birth control can often help to regulate a woman’s menstrual cycle and associated symptoms by stabilizing her hormones. While hormonal contraceptives are particularly common, they are not recommended for each and every female. This decision will be based upon the patient’s health and any prior conditions or risk factors she may have.
Non-Hormonal Forms of Birth Control
Some women can experience adverse side effects from adding more hormones to their body via contraceptives. Non-hormonal options are ideal in these situations and is also commonly recommended for women who wish to breastfeed while remaining on an effective form of birth control.
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An IUD is a form of birth control that remains in the uterus and can last for up to 10 years. It is a small, T-shaped, device that is both soft and flexible, and is put into place by a gynecologist during a visit to your OBGYN. An IUD works through several different actions that include thickening the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from entering the uterus, inhibiting the sperm from reaching or fertilizing an egg, and making the lining of the uterus thin. While they are 99% effective with regards to birth control, a gynecologist can remove the device if a patient is looking to become pregnant immediately.
Paragard is the only copper IUD, and it can prevent pregnancy for up to 10 years. It works by interfering with sperm movement, egg fertilization, and may prevent implantation. Paragard is hormone free.
A hormonal IUD is a contraceptive device that delivers small amounts of hormones directly to the uterus. The IUD prevents fertilization by making the mucus in the cervix thick and sticky so sperm can’t get through to the uterus, as well as other mechanisms.
Mirena is a hormonal IUD that prevents pregnancy for up to 8 years and can also treat heavy periods. It inhibits sperm from reaching and fertilizing an egg, thins the uterine lining, and thickens cervical mucus to prevent sperm from entering the uterus.
Skyla is a hormonal IUD made by the same company as Mirena, but this IUD is smaller. It may be less likely to be expelled in women who have never had a baby because of its smaller size. Skyla can be used for up to 3 years to prevent pregnancy.
Kyleena is a hormonal IUD that can prevent pregnancy for up to 5 years. Kyleena releases the lowest dose of hormones for the longest amount of time, compared to other IUDs. It can be used by women whether they have given birth or not.
Liletta is a hormonal IUD that is effective in preventing pregnancy for up to 8 years and women can use it regardless of if they have given birth.
Birth control pills are a form of oral contraception that generally contain two hormones, estrogen and progestin, and are taken daily to prevent a woman’s ovaries from releasing eggs. They also help to prevent pregnancy by causing the cervical mucus to thicken, which blocks sperm from fertilizing an egg. Birth control pills are safe, effective, and convenient.
The patch is worn on the skin. The hormones it contains are estrogen and progestin. The patch works by preventing the ovaries from releasing eggs. It also thickens cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg. The patch contains a dosage that is 60% higher than the pills. There is the risk of blood clots so it is essential that patients using the patch do not smoke. The patch can also be used to treat irregular periods, menstrual cramps, or endometriosis.
The Depo-Provera (Depo) shot is another very effective method of birth control. This shot must be given once every 3 months by a trained medical professional. Women who receive this shot will typically experience lighter periods or will stop getting their period altogether after several months of consecutive shots. This method is especially beneficial to women who are looking for a flexible and low-maintenance form of birth control that is still highly effective with a success rate of over 99%.
A vaginal ring is a form of contraception that is soft, flexible, and worn in the vagina. In a given one-month period, the ring must be inserted into the vagina, removed after 3 weeks, and a new ring inserted no more than 7 days later. The hormones it contains are estrogen and progestin. However, unlike birth control pills, they are absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the vaginal wall, delivering a consistent level of medication improving effectiveness, and limiting side effects.
Condoms physically blocks the sperm from entering the vagina. They are the only form of protection that can stop the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and prevent pregnancy. A condom is a latex or polyurethane sheath that is closed at one end and fits over a man’s penis. Condoms are also available for females. One end is closed and inserted into the vagina and the other end is open with the ring remaining outside the vagina. Users should read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
A diaphragm is a soft, dome-shaped device inserted into the vagina to cover the cervix and hold spermicide in place, helping to prevent pregnancy. It must be fitted by a provider and may need refitting after weight changes, pregnancy, or vaginal surgery. To be effective (86–94%), it should stay in place for 6–8 hours after intercourse.
Sterilization is a laparoscopic procedure that prevents pregnancy permanently by blocking or removing the fallopian tubes. Patients should be aware that the procedure provides permanent birth control and is NOT reversible.
Nexplanon is a small, flexible rod inserted just under the skin of your upper arm. It releases a steady, low dose of progestin to prevent pregnancy and is effective for up to three years. Both insertion and removal are performed in our office, typically resulting in only a tiny scar and minimal discomfort. Because it contains no estrogen, Nexplanon is a great option for individuals who cannot use combined hormonal methods. It is also safe for most women, including those who are breastfeeding.
To schedule an appointment call our gynecology office at (240) 252-2140 or request an appointment online.
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