Choosing the Right Birth Control Option
Birth control methods come in many forms, from pills that you take every day to intrauterine devices that are inserted at your provider’s office and last for years. The right option for you may depend on your lifestyle and medical history.
When meeting with your provider to discuss birth control, they’ll ask you about your medical history to determine if hormonal birth control options are safe for you. You and your provider will also discuss your lifestyle: Are you someone who is good at remembering to take medication, or do you prefer an option that doesn’t require daily maintenance? Your provider will then recommend a birth control method based on your personal preference and healthcare needs.
Short-Term Birth Control Options
Short-term birth control methods refer to methods that are managed more frequently or are used every time you have sex, like a condom.
Birth control pills are the most well-known short-term birth control methods. You take the pill at the same time every day to prevent pregnancy.
Barrier methods are birth control methods that require use every time you have sex. Some barrier methods, like condoms and internal condoms, also protect you from sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV. Your provider may recommend that you use one every time you have sex, even if you use an alternate birth control method.
Other short-term birth control methods include:
- Diaphragm
- Birth Control Sponge
- Cervical Cap
- Spermicide
- Birth control patches
- Vaginal Rings
Low-Maintenance and Long-Term Birth Control Options
Some birth control options do not require routine maintenance. These lower maintenance options last longer; however, they don’t protect against STIs as condoms do. Each of these long-term birth control options is something your provider can administer during an appointment.
The birth control shot is an injection that delivers hormones that prevent pregnancy for up to three months. You can continue to get it every three months for as long as you want to continue using birth control.
Birth control implants are also available. These are thin rods that go into your arm and prevent pregnancy for up to five years. They can be removed at any time and replaced after five years.
Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are one of the longest-lasting birth control methods. There are hormonal and nonhormonal IUD options. IUDs can last around ten years.
Permanent Birth Control
Permanent birth control options for women are available. The most common permanent option is a surgical procedure called tubal ligation.
A tubal ligation is done laparoscopically and cuts or removes your fallopian tubes so eggs can no longer enter your uterus. The laparoscopic method offers minimal scarring and quicker recovery.
Talk To Your Provider About Birth Control
Whether you’re interested in trying birth control for the first time or are looking for another option, your Genesis OBGYN provider can help you select the right choice for your lifestyle. Contact us to request a birth control appointment today.
