For women who are sexually active but do not wish to become pregnant, there are several birth controls, or contraceptives, available that are safe and effective. Dr. Smith and her staff will work with you to find a form of birth control that is right for you and your lifestyle.

Types

As mentioned above there are various kinds of birth control:

• Barrier – These methods of birth control include male and female condoms as well as diaphragms, or cups that work to prevent sperm from entering the uterus.

• Hormonal – Hormonal birth controls may come in the form of pills, patches, shots, or implants. These methods alter your hormone production to either prevent your body from releasing eggs or to thicken cervical mucus so that fertilization does not occur.

• Procedural – These birth control methods involve undergoing minor procedures to prevent pregnancy. An IUD, or intrauterine contraception device, is a device placed within the uterus and works to decrease ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, or block sperm from entering the uterus.

Another form of procedural birth control is tubal ligation. This form is permanent as the fallopian tubes are cut, clamped, or burned off. This prevents eggs from traveling to the uterus or sperm from reaching the eggs.

We also offer Nexplanon implant, which can be inserted in the office.

Effectiveness

Abstinence, or refraining from sexual intercourse, is the only means of birth control that is proven to prevent pregnancy 100%. However, many of the birth control options listed above have excellent rates with less than 1% of women becoming pregnant when using birth control correctly.

Risks and Benefits

Every contraceptive has its own risk and benefits. It is important that you make this decision together with your doctor so that you are aware of all your options and choose the one that is right for you.

For more information on our birth control options, please contact our office at (301) 459-5744.