Roughly 38 million women of reproductive age use some form of contraception. Deciding what birth control to use is an important conversation to have with your health care provider.
There are a range of options to choose from, and the right choice for you should align with your lifestyle, preferences, future parenthood goals, and values. Your health history also plays a role.
The team at Monarque Health & Wellness helps you wade through the wide range of birth control options so you can make an informed decision about which method of contraception is right for you.
Hormonal birth control is a great option for women who are looking for effective and reversible contraception. This form of birth control isn’t recommended if you have certain risk factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, or a history of blood clots.
It’s best for those who can adhere to a daily regimen (in the case of pills) or prefer a "set it and forget it" method like implants, injections, or IUDs.
It's also beneficial for women who are seeking additional health benefits, such as regulating menstrual cycles, reducing menstrual cramps, and minimizing acne.
Hormonal birth control includes pills, patches, injections, vaginal rings, and implants. They alter hormones to prevent ovulation. Without ovulation, pregnancy can’t occur.
Each hormonal option has its advantages. Our team can advise you on any potential side effects, to help you determine if hormonal birth control is the right fit for you.
IUDs are the most popular long-acting form of birth control. These small, T-shaped devices go inside the uterus.
There are two types: hormonal and copper. The hormonal IUD releases progestin, while the copper IUD prevents sperm from fertilizing an egg. IUDs are more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
Condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps, and sponges fall under this category. They stop sperm from reaching an egg, which prevents pregnancy. These methods are non-hormonal and offer the advantage of being used only at the time of sexual activity.
Some methods, like condoms, provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as well.
Permanent birth control options such as tubal ligation are suitable for women who don’t want to have children in the future. Tubal ligation is a permanent procedure that women between the ages of 40-44 are more likely to choose. Around 10 million US women choose permanent birth control.
It’s wise to consider your lifestyle when comparing birth control methods. For example, can you remember to take a pill every day, or would a long-term solution like an IUD be more convenient?
Also, think about your health and whether you have conditions that might influence your choice, such as a history of blood clots, which could make certain hormonal methods riskier.
The birth control method that’s right for you now might not be the best fit in the future. That’s why we recommend periodic reevaluation. Whether it’s due to a new relationship, getting older, or changes in your health, you need a birth control method that meets your changing needs.
Contraception gives you control and puts you in the driver’s seat of family planning. When you need help choosing the best option, you can rely on the Monarque Health & Wellness team. Contact our Ashland, Oregon, clinic to schedule a visit.
