Which contraception is right for me?
Today, you have an almost unlimited number of choices when it comes to birth control. The sheer number of different methods may feel overwhelming.
Fortunately, the board-certified women’s health experts at Women's Health Care Center of Houston are here to help you make sense of your contraceptive options. It’s important to weigh a series of factors before choosing a method.
When you visit the Women's Health Care Center of Houston, you can expect your practitioner to cover both medical and lifestyle factors that may influence your decision making. Together, you’ll discuss:
- Family planning goals
- Health risks
- Whether you smoke
- Frequency of sex
- Your sex partners
- The risk of STDs
You also want to consider a way that works best for your lifestyle. For example, can you remember a daily pill, or would you prefer a long-acting reversible method that you don’t have to think about?
What are my contraception options?
Most contraceptives rely on some type of hormone to prevent pregnancy. These methods include:
Short-term hormonal contraceptives
These methods prevent pregnancy by either stopping ovulation or preventing sperm from reaching the egg. Short-term options include oral contraceptive pills, the patch, and injections.
Long-acting reversible contraception (LARCs)
These methods work by blocking sperm from getting to the egg, preventing your ovaries from releasing eggs or interfering with implantation. LARCs include IUDs and hormonal implants, such as Nexplanon.
A copper IUD is another long-term method to prevent pregnancy without the use of hormones.
What is Nexplanon?
The Nexplanon implant is a slim plastic device that gradually releases the hormone progesterone.
Your practitioner at Women's Health Care Center of Houston can insert the device in your upper arm during a quick office visit. Once inserted, it prevents pregnancy for up to three years.
What are the side effects of contraception?
Hormonal birth control comes with side effects, but in many cases, the side effects are generally mild. Hormonal contraception also can offer benefits, such as lighter or less painful periods.
When you visit the Women's Health Care Center of Houston, you can expect your practitioner to walk you through the risks and benefits of various contraceptive methods to find the one that’s best for you.
Call Women's Health Care Center of Houston or book your contraception consultation online today.
