Birth control, also known as contraception, is a sensitive topic in a woman’s reproductive age. One of its benefits is that it allows planning when to have children as a couple. Birth control is essential in preventing unplanned pregnancies and bringing up healthy children.
Though contraceptives are a personal decision, it is also your responsibility to know the risks and benefits of various birth control methods. A medical professional to guide you through Forest Hills birth control specialists at Raveco Medical. Consult them today for all your birth control services.
What is birth control?
Birth control is a way to prevent conception. It involves using various methods to prevent pregnancy from occurring.
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Types of birth control
There are different types of birth control methods to choose from depending on what works best for you. Their effectiveness and convenience vary with each person, as there are many factors to consider. The various types follow under groups, including:
Barrier methods
Barrier birth control methods work by blocking the sperm from reaching the egg. They include
- Condoms
- Diaphragms
- Cervical caps
- Contraceptive sponge
Hormonal methods
Hormonal methods modify the hormones to prevent ovulation from occurring. They include;
- Patch
- The Pill
- NuvaRing
- Depo-Provera injections
- Hormonal implant, Nexplanon
Intrauterine devices
Also known as IUDs. They alter your cervical mucus or repel the sperm to lower the chances of pregnancy. Raveco Medical offers the following IUDs.
- Copper IUDs such as ParaGard
- Hormonal IUDs, like Mirena and Skia
Natural methods
Natural methods involve you monitoring your most fertile and infertile days, counting days, observing the cervical mucus, also the withdrawal method.
In cases where you have had enough children, you may consider permanent methods such as male vasectomy and female tubal ligation.
How effective are birth control methods?
Each birth control method works differently and has its level of effectiveness. However, IUDs and implants are the most effective birth control methods. It is because they are inside your body and prevent pregnancy without your interference. They can last for up to 10 years, based on the type used.
Other methods are usually less effective due to user error, such as birth control pills and injections that require you to take the pills daily or schedule regular hospital visits.
Do birth control methods protect you from sexually transmitted diseases?
Birth control does not protect you from sexually transmitted infections, except for male and female condoms. On the other hand, condoms may not be a reliable method to prevent pregnancy.
It would be best to use condoms and another effective birth control method to protect yourself from STDs and prevent pregnancy.
What factors should you consider before choosing a birth control method?
The choice of your birth control method depends on your medical history, lifestyle, and also your partner. It is essential to ask yourself the following before making your decision.
- When would you want to start a family, or do you want one?
- How effective is the method
- What are the side effects of various contraceptives?
- Will you be liable for taking the pill every day or use contraceptives when having intercourse?
Talk to a birth control provider today
It is critical to understand the various benefits and side effects of birth control methods before settling with one. It is also significant to consider the convenience, your lifestyle, and your partner’s comfort. Contact Raveco Medical today to understand which methods will work for you.