The 411 on Contraception: What You Need to Know

Contraception has become a big part of both women’s and girls’ health. Birth control, also known as contraception, is designed for a multitude of reasons. It can aid in prevention against pregnancy, help regulate and alleviate periods, aid in hormone balance, as well as clear up skin problems. Medline Plus explains that one type of birth control works to prevent sperm from getting to the eggs. Examples of this type include condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps, and contraceptive sponges. Other methods work to keep the woman’s ovaries from releasing eggs that could be fertilized. Examples of this type include birth control pills, patches, shots, vaginal rings, and emergency contraceptive pills. IUDs, devices that are implanted into the uterus. They can be kept in place for several years. Other options include sterilization, which permanently prevents a woman from getting pregnant or a man from being able to get a woman pregnant, and abstinence. 

What are the different types of contraception?  

Throughout the years, more and more types of contraception have been introduced into the market. They are all unique, have various protective rates, work distinctly, and have different effects on each individual. 

• Long-acting reversible methods: intrauterine devices (IUDs), hormonal implants like Nexplanon. 
• Short-acting hormonal methods: pill, mini pills, patch, shot, vaginal ring. 
• Barrier methods: condoms, diaphragms, sponge, cervical cap. 
• Sterilization (for both males and females): female tubal ligation or occlusion, male vasectomy. 
• Abstinence: this method is 100% guaranteed to prevent pregnancy, it means you do not engage in sexual intercourse, so there is no way for sperm to get to the eggs.  

Deciding what birth control is best for you 

There is no best method of contraception. It is a personal decision that you and your doctor should make together. You and your doctor will work as a team to find out what works for you and what doesn’t. If and when you decide to start thinking about contraception, it is important to take into consideration: 

• Your specific health factors, if you have had any reaction to other medications is important to talk about 
• Your frequency of sexual activity 
• How many different sexual partners you have 
• What the actual purpose is that you want to come out of your birth control, pregnancy prevention, period regulation, etc.  
• If you plan on having children in the future 

It is important to think realistically about your personal accountability regarding your birth control method. This means considering whether you are willing to take a pill every day at the same time, or if you would rather use a longer-term method such as an IUD that requires much less frequent maintenance. It is very helpful to be honest with yourself and your doctor when discussing this.  

What are some of the common side effects of contraception? 

Before starting your contraceptive method, it is important to note the possible side effects it can have on your body. As previously mentioned, each method affects each individual differently. Some birth controls can create physical and emotional symptoms. The most common symptoms are spotting between periods, headaches, sore breasts, and nausea. Most of these symptoms go away within 2-3 months, so it is recommended to give your choice some time for your body to get used to it. But, if you are not comfortable with how you are feeling, talk to your doctor and look into trying another method.  

For more expertise on contraception options and finding the right one for you, set up an appointment with one of our experts today. Just call 307-634-5216 or Contact Us on our website today.