Different Birth Control Options – All You Need To Know
When it comes to birth-control methods, there is good news for moms. There are numerous options that work for individuals with varying needs. Many options and forms exist because what works best for one person may not suit another.
Your needs and your health change over time so it is not uncommon to have to reevaluate your method of contraception every so often to ensure you have the most effective and suitable form to fit your lifestyle. Some of the options include:
Combination Pill
This type of pill is taken every day at the same time to prevent pregnancy. These pills contain progestin and estrogen, and once taken, it prevents ovulation by thickening the cervical mucus. This way the sperm will not reach the uterus. You take the pill for 21 days and still experience your period each month.
Mini-pill
This type of birth control pill is ideal for breastfeeding mothers. It works by thickening the cervical mucus thus preventing the sperm from reaching the ovum. It can also prevent ovulation. Women take an active pill for 28 days allowing a continuous hormonal flow to be received.
Fertility could return immediately once you stop taking the pill.
Depo-Provera (injectable)
This method is fairly easy and suitable for breastfeeding mothers. Your doctor will give you a shot of progestin once every three months, which is highly effective at preventing pregnancy.
Fertility usually returns after 9 to 12 months once you stop getting the shot.
IUD
An Intrauterine Device is a small, plastic, T-shaped device placed in the uterus by a nurse or doctor to prevent pregnancy for several years. There are various brands and types of IUDs but none of them are permanent. Most use hormones to prevent pregnancy similar to the pill but there is a non-hormonal option which is made of copper.
Vaginal Ring
This method prevents future pregnancy by inserting a hormone-laced flexible ring into your vagina, similar to a tampon. The process is done once a month, and the ring is left to stay there for three weeks and then removed during the week of your period.
Fertility generally returns 1 to 2 months after discontinuing use.
Condom
This method is useful for almost anyone with the exception of those who are allergic to latex, yet there are some alternative materials. It works by creating a physical barrier between you and your partner during intercourse.
These are a few of the numerous options, but it is always advisable that you check in with your doctor before settling on one to ensure that it is safe method for you.
Kimberly Dougherty Bio:
Kimberly Dougherty, Esq is a Partner and the Managing Attorney at the Boston office of Janet, Jenner & Suggs, which is a national plaintiffs’ law firm and a sponsor of BirthControlProblems.com. Kim has taken on a number of large corporate defendants in her career, handling multiple lawsuits involving dangerous prescription drugs and medical devices. She is also the President for the Massachusetts Women’s Bar Association.