Birth Control Specialist

How do I choose the right birth control option?

There are so many effective forms of birth control available today, it's easier than ever to find an option that works for you. Before you see your doctor for birth control, ask yourself the following questions, the answers to which will help you and your doctor choose the right type:

Do I want to become pregnant in the future? A "yes" excludes permanent types of birth control.

How would an unplanned pregnancy affect my life right now? Some types of birth control are more effective than others. How much effort do I want to put into birth control? Some methods require more proactive planning than others.

How much can I afford to spend on birth control? There are more and less expensive options.

Is an IUD a good choice for me?

An IUD (intrauterine device) works by preventing the ovum from being fertilized by sperm, initiating a pregnancy. There are two main types of IUDs:

• Hormonal IUDs work by releasing a small amount of hormones, similar to those used in birth control pills, into your body. They may cause you to have lighter periods, making them a good option if you have heavy menstrual cycles.

• Copper IUDs work by stimulating an immune system response in your body that is toxic to sperm. Copper IUDs may cause heavier periods, especially at first, but they lasts longer than hormonal IUDs.

Most healthy women can use IUDs for birth control, but if you have had a recent pelvic infection, have a history of cervical or uterine cancer, or have unexplained vaginal bleeding, an IUD may not be right for you. It's important to note that IUDs do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

Do I need a prescription for birth control?

Some types of birth control are available over the counter without a prescription. These include: Condoms, both male and female, diaphragms, spermicidal sponges, creams, foams, and gels. These offer some protection against STDs.

Non-prescription forms of birth control are generally less effective than birth control methods that require a doctor's supervision, which can be 90 percent to 99 percent effective when used correctly.