Birth Control

How does birth control work?

Birth control, or contraception, prevents sperm from fertilizing eggs or stops ovaries from releasing eggs altogether. 

It can be reversible or temporary, and you can change the methods you use at any time. If you have no wish of ever falling pregnant, you may choose a permanent birth control method, like having your tubes tied.

The providers at Advanced Obstetrics & Gynecology, LLC, take the time to understand your current and long-term goals for birth control so they can make the most appropriate recommendations,

What are temporary methods of birth control?

Temporary methods of birth control include the female and male condom, the sponge, and the diaphragm. You place them before intercourse and remove them afterward. 

Except for a diaphragm, they’re for one-time use. Spermicide, when coupled with these methods, acts as an extra measure of birth control but is ineffective if you use it on its own.

Temporary methods of contraception are a good choice if you don’t want to interrupt your natural hormonal balance. If you’re unsure how to use them correctly, speak to your provider at Advanced Obstetrics & Gynecology, LLC.

What are the long-lasting methods of birth control?

There are two types of long-lasting methods of birth control: reversible contraception and hormonal contraception.

Reversible contraception

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are small devices your doctor places inside your uterus. The Copper T intrauterine device (IUD) stays in place for up to 10 years. The Levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG IUD) remains in place for 3-6 years and works by releasing progestin. They’re both highly effective, with a 99% success rate. 

Hormonal contraceptive

Hormonal contraceptives use the hormone progesterone or a combination of progesterone and estrogen to prevent pregnancy. There are plenty of methods to choose from, including the oral pill, injection, implant, patch, and vaginal ring. 

With the pill, patch, and vaginal ring, you use the contraception for three weeks and pause it for the fourth week, when you have a period. With the implant and the injection, your periods may stop altogether. 

The amount of time it takes for you to conceive once you stop birth control is unpredictable and varies significantly between women and even between pregnancies for the same person. 

The providers at Advanced Obstetrics & Gynecology, LLC, run through the benefits of each method so you can make an informed choice. 

To learn more and see which option is right for you, schedule an appointment by phone or book online today.