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Guide to Picking the Right Birth Control for You

Birth control allows people to take charge of their reproductive decisions. If you don't want to have children right now, you don't have to.

By McKenzie JonesPublished 2 years ago 4 min read
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Birth control allows people to take charge of their reproductive decisions. If you don't want to have children right now, you don't have to. Birth control can even be used to level out hormones or to address other health conditions. With so many methods on the market and the available options growing frequently, deciding which one to use can be challenging. Taking factors such as effectiveness, lifestyle, family planning needs, side effects, costs, and personal preference will allow you to narrow down your decision. Keep reading for an overview of the most popular options. The information provided can help you to pick the right birth control for you.

Birth Control Pills

One of the most common forms of contraception is the birth control pill. When choosing birth control, this is the method that often comes to mind. Perhaps that's because it's been around for so long. Birth control pills work to control your menstrual cycle through the regulation of hormones. There is a three-week cycle of pills containing active hormones and a week of placebo pills. You will typically get your period during this week.

The "side effects" that come with taking the pill are often positive ones such as a reduction in acne and periods that are lighter with less pain. Plus, knowing when your period is coming allows you to better plan your life. Birth control pills have an effectiveness rate of more than 95%. This method may not be for you if you have trouble remembering to take medicine every day or if you're a smoker. Smokers and those with certain other medical conditions can be at risk of developing blood clots when taking the pill.

Condom

Condoms are always an option if you're looking for a non-hormonal form of birth control that also protects against STIs. The condom itself is a barrier method that doesn't allow sperm to come in contact with the uterus. Some may find condoms to be inconvenient, and user error contributes to a higher failure rate than most other types of contraception.

IUD

IUD stands for intrauterine device. This option may appeal to you if you prefer not to have to think about birth control. Once this T-shaped device is inserted into your uterus, it can last up to 10 years before needing to be replaced. Another plus to the IUD is that it's over 99% effective. You can choose from a copper IUD or a hormonal one. The kind with hormones can make periods lighter. Some people don't get a period at all. Insertion can be quite painful. If you think you may want to consider an IUD, you'll want to start researching "gynecologist near me" to find someone you trust. There is a slight risk of uterine perforation when inserting the device. In addition, you should expect spotting to occur for the first few months after the device is placed.

Patch and Ring

The patch and the ring are birth control methods that you can apply at home. They contain hormones much like the pill. The patch simply needs to be placed on your arm. You replace it with a new one every week. The ring is a flexible plastic device you insert into your vagina and replace monthly. Each of these options is removed for a week each month. This is when you'll get your period. They're 95% effective, and you take care of applying them yourself. Both options do come with side effects like moodiness, bloating, and breast tenderness. These ease up after a few months of use. Talk to your health provider if you smoke, have cancer, or have blood clots.

The Shot

You can get a hormonal shot every three months to prevent pregnancy. The shot can decrease periods or cause them to disappear completely. You'll need to visit your doctor four times each year, and there is a risk of bone thinning that is reversible when the shot is discontinued.

Hormonal Implant

Another hormone option for contraception is the hormonal implant. It's a thin plastic rod that your doctor will insert under the skin of your upper arm. Implants last about three years. It's very effective and doesn't require a pelvic exam. Unpredictable bleeding after insertion can occur. Some people experience heavier periods.

Now that you understand the pros and cons of the most common birth control methods, you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you. Your doctor can provide additional information to guide your decision.

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