Contraception, also known as family planning or birth control, refers to methods used to prevent pregnancy. Many people have heard of condoms or “the pill”, but there are many options available so people can choose what works best for them and their bodies. Here is a brief overview of the most common reversible options:
· Intrauterine device (IUD): a T-shaped device that is placed in the uterus by a healthcare provider. They are very effective (>99% effective), and can stay in place up to 5-10 years depending on the type. They can either contain hormones or be hormone-free. People can have an IUD even if they have never been pregnant before, and it can be removed at any point.
· Implant: a small, thin rod that is placed just under the skin in your arm by a healthcare provider. It contains progesterone only, no estrogen. It is very effective (>99% effective), and can stay in place for up to 3 years. It can be removed at any point.
· Ring: a small, flexible ring that you insert in your vagina for 3 weeks and remove for 1 week. It contains both estrogen and progesterone. It is over 91% effective with typical use and is easily reversible.
· Shot: injected every 3 months at your provider’s office. It is progesterone only, no estrogen. It is over 94% effective with typical use.
· Pill: taken daily, can contain progesterone only or have both estrogen and progesterone. It comes in a variety of formulations, and you can work with your provider to figure out which one would work best for you and your medical history. It is over 91% effective with typical use, and is easily reversible.
· Condoms: used as needed, comes as a male or female condom. It is the only method that protects against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and should be used with other methods to prevent transmission of STIs.
· Natural Family Planning: encompasses a variety of options that involve monitoring your menstrual cycles and symptoms associated with ovulation. This includes monitoring basal body temperature (BBT), cervical mucus, and other aspects of your menstrual cycle. “Taking Charge of Your Fertility” by Toni Weschler is a great resource if you are interested in this option.
For more information on these options and more, check out this CDC link: https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/contraception/index.htm
Written by Avery Klepacki CNM
You Might Also Enjoy...
Near the end of their pregnancy, a common concern at the end of their appointment is, “how dilated am I?” While dilation is an important part of the process, there are many other pieces that contribute to your cervix getting ready for labor and birth.
There are so many things to learn about your little one and they have yet to be born! One of the many interesting questions is, how is baby getting air? Here at True Harmony, we got you covered, and are here to answer any question you might have!
We at the Center for True Harmony hold on strongly to the path of self healing. One of the many ways to self healing is medical aromatherapy. Discover the beautiful benefits of Mother Nature's many wonders!
Being a new mom while still taking on day-to-day task can sound like a handful. Running errands is no longer an in and out event. Here are some recommendations from True Harmony that will make your outings with baby a little less stressful!
MaryAnn Shostek, PA-C has a reading delight for women who are searching for menopausal symptom improvement. Let's dive in to the many options of menopause relief by reading MaryAnn's ABC's!
When people think of the start of labor, many people assume that it's like the movies. We at True Harmony strive to educate and prepare our patients for the birth of their little one. Here we can get you prepared for the early labor.
