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What are the types of birth control?
Birth control, or contraception, refers to methods and devices used to prevent pregnancy. It is important for anyone who wants to plan when and if they have children, regulate their menstrual cycles, and manage various medical conditions.
There is a wide range of birth control methods, including:
- Hormonal methods: Pills, patches, and injections
- Barrier methods: Condoms and diaphragms
- Intrauterine devices (IUDs): Hormonal and copper options
- Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC): Hormonal implants
- Natural methods: Rhythm method or cervical mucus tracking
The method you choose depends on individual preferences and health considerations.
What considerations influence my birth control choices?
The type of birth control you choose depends on several factors. You should consider:
- If and when you’d like to add to your family
- Your sexual habits
- Convenience
- Effectiveness
- Personal health concerns
- Belief systems
When you come to Georgia OB/GYN for birth control, the team discusses each method’s benefits and any possible side effects. Their goal is to help you make an informed choice.
Are all birth control methods equally effective?
The effectiveness of each method of birth control varies. Some are more subject to human error, such as forgetting to take a pill consistently. Some of the forms with the highest effectiveness include implants and IUDs. Natural methods are less reliable in preventing pregnancy.
Can birth control also provide non-contraceptive benefits?
Many birth control methods offer non-contraceptive benefits. For example, hormonal birth control can regulate menstrual cycles, reduce menstrual cramps, and improve acne.
Certain methods also lower the risk of specific medical conditions, such as ovarian and endometrial cancer. When you come to Georgia OB/GYN, the team goes over all of the potential benefits of each method.
Can I easily switch birth control methods?
You can always switch or discontinue your chosen birth control method at any time. Talk to the team at Georgia OB/GYN to discuss the transition and any potential impact on your health. If you’re interested in trying to conceive, the team can also help you understand what to expect in terms of timelines following the discontinuation of your specific birth control methods.
Call Georgia OB/GYN today or use this website to book an appointment to get all your birth control questions answered.