Contraception is an effective and safe method of avoiding pregnancy. Whether you are married or dating, so long as you are sexually active and do not want to conceive, you should contemplate birth control. However, sorting through the alternatives could be overwhelming. At Desert Star Family Planning, numerous contraceptive techniques exist, including IUDs, pills, patches, and more. Continue reading to learn about the different options and how to select the right option for you.
What Are The Different Forms Of Birth Control?
Here are some of the common birth control options to choose from:
Hormonal techniques
When used appropriately, hormonal contraceptive techniques keep the ovaries from releasing an egg every month, reducing the likelihood of fertilization and pregnancy. The common hormonal techniques include patches, some IUDs, pills, rings, and implants.
Contraceptive pills are one of the most common hormonal contraceptive options. These contraceptives are typically available in sets of 28, including 21 hormone-containing pills and 7 hormone-free pills.
You will experience your menstruation the week you take the hormone-free birth control pills. Some women utilize contraceptive pills to control their menses and avoid conception. Physicians are well-versed in all methods of hormonal birth control and could assist you in selecting the most suitable technique for your lifestyle.
Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)
IUDs are gaining popularity as a means of contraception. IUDs are tiny, T-shaped plastic inserts that are placed inside the uterus. Once implanted, it is indiscernible and highly successful at inhibiting conception for years.
Two types of IUDs exist, including hormonal and copper. The copper intrauterine device emits small traces of copper, which prevents sperm from fertilizing the egg. On the other hand, copper IUDs are efficient for about a decade. Hormonal IUDs may block fertilization by releasing hormones for as long as five years.
Expert physicians are the only ones that can place IUDs. Luckily, the procedure is minimally-invasive and has little-to-no recovery time. After having your IUD, you may anticipate your menses to be light or cease entirely.
Barrier Techniques
Female and male condoms are the typical barrier techniques of contraception. Before sex, barrier measures are placed on the penis or within the vagina, preventing the sperm from reaching the cervix and fertilizing the egg.
Numerous barrier techniques do not need a prescription. Unfortunately, these methods may be less successful than hormonal or other contraceptive methods.
The only contraceptive method that also protects against sexually transmitted illnesses is using condoms. If you are in danger of sexually transmitted diseases, it is a great idea to use condoms along with other contraception methods.
How To Determine The Right Contraceptive For You?
The form of contraception you utilize is an individual decision, and your physician should work with you to make a well-informed choice. Some determining factors include the number of partners you have, how often you engage in sexual activity, and your health history.
Your doctor will also want to know whether you want to have kids soon and if any contraceptive has negatively affected you. Moreover, you should be truthful with yourself. For instance, if you tend to forget to take your meds, everyday pills might not be the best option.
Family planning is important not only to avoid unplanned pregnancies, but some techniques can also be a great way of protecting yourself from STDs. It is typical for women to switch contraceptive techniques based on their requirements and objectives. Luckily, obstetricians and gynecologists are knowledgeable in this area and can help you find a good option, no matter your life stage.
