Birth control options provide you with individualized choices

Women have more options just the Pill. A variety of birth control options allows women to choose when and if they want to become pregnant. As their lifestyles change, many women may employ different methods during their reproductive years. Our San Antonio OBGYNs encourage patients to schedule a contraception consultation. We can help determine which method is best based on several factors, including overall health, frequency of sexual intercourse, possible side effects and more.

Long-acting reversible contraceptives are the most effective

Types of long-acting reversible contraception, or LARC, are the most effective at preventing pregnancy, with only 1 pregnancy per one hundred women per year. Our San Antonio OBGYNs call this “set it and forget it” birth control. Once it’s in place, you don’t have to worry about it, and it remains effective for three to 10 years.

LARCs include the IUD and the implantable rod, which a doctor places under the skin of the upper arm. Both hormonal and copper IUDs prevent sperm from fertilizing the egg. The implant prevents ovulation. Both the IUD and the rod are reversible, allowing women to try to get pregnant as soon as they are removed.

There are several effective hormonal methods

Birth control pills are a highly popular form of contraception. Oral contraceptives or the Pill, along with the patch, the vaginal ring and the injection, are also very effective. These methods report between 6-9 pregnancies per 100 women per year when used correctly. The birth control shot that you receive every three months is the most effective hormonal method, followed by the pill, patch and ring. The hormones in these methods prevent ovulation.

Some barrier methods protect against sexually transmitted infections

The male condom is often used along with other birth control methods to prevent STIs. Barrier methods include the male condom, female condom, sponge, diaphragm, cervical cap and spermicides. The diaphragm has an effectiveness rate of 12 pregnancies per 100 women per year, and 18 or more for the other methods. Barrier methods block fertilization by preventing sperm from reaching the egg. Some barrier methods are available without a prescription, but the diaphragm and cervical cap require a prescription.

Our San Antonio OBGYNs can help you navigate birth control methods to choose the one that is right for you

While having so many birth control choices is wonderful, it may seem overwhelming when you are trying to make a choice. Our San Antonio OBGYNs are here to help you weigh the pros and cons. Contact us today for an appointment.

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Birth Control – Contraception