Thanks to modern medicine, there are more birth control options than ever before. That’s great news for anyone who wants more control over their reproductive health, but it can also make it hard to figure out which method is right for you. If you’ve never used birth control before or if you’re thinking about switching to a different method, all the choices out there can feel overwhelming.
That’s where we come in at Rose Women’s Medical Center. Scheduling a consultation with one of our providers is the best way to figure out which method will work best for you. In the meantime, this blog will walk you through the most common birth control options available today, how they work, what they involve, and who they might be a good fit for.
These are some of the most widely used forms of contraception. They are taken daily and use hormones to stop ovulation. When taken at the same time every day, they are highly effective. Some versions also help with regulating your period and reducing menstrual cramps. However, consistency is critical; missing a pill or taking it late can reduce its effectiveness.
Both the patch and the ring deliver hormones similar to the pill, but in different ways. The patch sticks to your skin and is replaced weekly. The ring is inserted into the vagina and stays in place for three weeks. They are more flexible than daily pills, but still require you to remember to change them regularly. These are good options if you prefer not to take a pill every day.
An IUD is a small, flexible device inserted into the uterus. Hormonal IUDs release a steady dose of hormones, while copper IUDs work without hormones. They can remain effective for three to 12 years, depending on the type. Because they work continuously, IUDs are also ideal for those who prefer not to think about birth control daily.
The birth control shot (Depo-Provera®) is given every three months and works by stopping ovulation. It’s a private and convenient option for many, but it requires staying current with appointments. Some users experience side effects like changes in their menstrual cycle or weight gain.
The implant (Nexplanon®) is a tiny rod placed under the skin of your upper arm. It releases progestin to prevent pregnancy and lasts up to three years. It’s discreet, effective, and requires very little effort once it’s in place. Some people may experience irregular bleeding, especially in the first year.
Condoms, diaphragms, and sponges fall into this category. They physically block sperm from reaching the egg and don’t involve hormones. Condoms also protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), which many hormonal methods do not. These are usually less effective than hormonal options, but can be great when used consistently and correctly. Many people use them as a backup method.
If you’re sure you don’t want children in the future, permanent birth control like tubal ligation (for women) or vasectomy (for men) may be an option. These are surgical procedures and are meant to be irreversible, so it’s important to be confident in your decision.
There’s no perfect method of birth control; the best one is the one that works for your health, your body, and your lifestyle. Some methods are easier to use, while others come with fewer side effects. You might want something temporary, or you might be ready for a longer-term solution. At Rose Women’s Medical Center, we help you weigh these factors so you can make a confident decision. Call our team at 331-233-1350 today or request an online appointment.
