Birth Control Specialist

How do I decide which birth control is right for me?

Every woman has different needs and priorities when it comes to deciding on birth control methods. Of course, the effectiveness of each method is important, but so is your comfort level with its use. For example, ask yourself if you’re able to remember to take a daily pill or OK with inserting a diaphragm prior to intercourse.

You should also consider how often you have sexual intercourse, if you’re in a mutually monogamous relationship, whether you plan to have a family at some point, your lifestyle habits, and your medical history.

What types of birth control are available?

Birth control comes in four major categories. These include:

• Hormonal methods, such as the patch, pill, inserts, or ring
• Intrauterine devices, or IUDs, to repel sperm using copper or hormones
• Barrier method, such as condoms or diaphragms
• Natural methods, such as fertility tracking

Permanent methods of birth control, such as tubal ligation, are also an option if you’re certain you don’t want any pregnancies.

Some birth control methods work immediately, such as IUDs and condoms. But, other methods require several weeks to become effective. Until you’re certain you’re protected, use a backup method of birth control.

Dr. Clott can help you understand how each method works, its reliability, and whether it fits with your health needs and lifestyle. Many methods, such as an IUD or the pill,  are convenient and effective at preventing pregnancy, but don’t offer protection from sexually transmitted infections.

Why should I consider hormonal birth control?

Hormonal birth control includes some IUDs, the patch, shots, vaginal rings, implants (such as Nexplanon®), and injections. Hormonal methods of birth control are more than 90% effective in preventing pregnancy and offer additional benefits to your health that include:

• Reduced symptoms of PMS
• Lighter periods
• Decreased risk of certain cancers and pelvic inflammatory disease
• Fewer menstrual cramps
• Less acne

Hormonal birth control can also help ease symptoms of endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, and ovarian cysts.

Can any birth control methods protect against sexually transmitted infection?

Male and female condoms are the only forms of birth control that protect against sexually transmitted infections. Condoms, however, aren’t as effective as many other methods of birth control when it comes to preventing pregnancy. If you’re concerned about STIs, consider a dual protection strategy: using a reliable birth control method, such as an IUD, to prevent pregnancy and a condom to protect you against STI.

Get help understanding the best methods of birth control for you. Call Somerset Women’s Care or schedule an appointment using the online tool today.