Birth Control

What are the different kinds of birth control?

Birth control methods come in various forms, ranging from emergency contraception to long-lasting options like IUDs. Family Care Specialists Medical Group offers options counseling to help you understand all of your family planning choices.

Here are common types of birth control:

Barrier methods

This includes methods like condoms, diaphragms, and sponges, which block sperm from reaching an egg. While barrier methods are convenient, you have to remember to use one each time you have sex.

Hormonal methods

These methods include the pill and injections (Depo-Provera). With the pill, the effectiveness will depend on whether you’re good about remembering to take your daily pill.

Long-acting reversible contraceptives

These options include hormonal implants (Nexplanon®) and intrauterine devices (Mirena® and Paragard®). These methods are very effective and last for three years and longer.

Natural rhythm method

This method requires paying close attention to your cycle and avoiding sex on the days when you are most likely to become pregnant. Fertility monitors and ovulation tests can help you keep track of your most fertile days.

What are the side effects of birth control?

The potential side effects depend on the method you use. The pill raises the risk of blood clots and high blood pressure, while Intrauterine devices slightly increase your risk of ectopic pregnancy. Your provider at Family Care Specialists Medical Group will walk you through the side effects of various family planning methods.

How do I choose the birth control that’s right for me?

Your choice of birth control depends on your lifestyle, health, whether you’d like to have children in the next few years, and other factors. Before choosing a method, your provider at Family Care Specialists Medical Group talks with you about:

• How often you have sex
• Your sex partners
• Your health
• If and when you plan to have kids
• Whether it’s easy for you to remember to take a daily pill

It’s also a good idea to discuss preventing sexually transmitted infections. Many methods don’t prevent STIs. Condoms are the best option to prevent STIs.

If you’ve been thinking about going on birth control or are dissatisfied with your current method, it’s time to take charge of your future with the right family planning services. Call or schedule an online consultation today with Family Care Specialists Medical Group.