From contraceptive implants to condoms, IUDs, and vaginal rings, there are many available birth control methods. Choosing the most viable and safest option may be challenging since you need to weigh the pros and cons of each birth control method. Fortunately, by talking to Dr. John Gomes Garden City, you can find the best option. Before you and your doctor come to a conclusion, you should consider the following factors.
Efficiency
Any method of contraception must be used correctly and consistently to increase the chance of pregnancy prevention. Although the effectiveness of a contraceptive is generally based on how you use it, certain birth control methods are associated with lower pregnancy rates, while some with higher pregnancy rates. For instance, birth control methods, such as implants, IUDs, and sterilization, which require little effort on your side, are among the most efficient means. That is because once they take effect, you do not have to worry about preventing pregnancy for an extended period.
On the other hand, methods such as periodic abstinence or fertility monitoring require a woman to be attentive at all times, which can sometimes be impractical.
Reversibility
Your reproductive goals play a significant role when choosing a birth control method. A barrier method or a short-acting hormonal method is usually the preferred method for women planning a pregnancy soon. However, if getting children is not in your immediate plans, you want to use a long-acting method such as IUD. If you are certain that you don’t want to get pregnant, you may consider a permanent method such as sterilization.
The decision about when to have children is personal and may change at different stages of your life.
Side effects
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a form of contraception is your tolerance to the potential side effects. Although no form of birth control is free from side effects, some pose more side effects that are potentially severe than others. For instance, women who use hormonal contraceptives are more likely to experience side effects such as breast tenderness, mood changes, headaches, cramps, and nausea. Your medical history also affects your choice of birth control, so discuss that with your doctor beforehand.
Convenience
Choosing a birth control method that suits your lifestyle and habits is important since these two factors gravely affect the efficiency of the birth control method you’re using. For example, if you have a busy schedule, you want to consider contraceptives such as IUDs or implants; these require little effort and are associated with lower pregnancy rates. Birth control pills may not be the best choice since you need to take them every day and ideally at the same time. If you smoke cigarettes, your doctor may advise against hormonal contraceptives since a combination of tobacco and hormones puts you at risk of blood clots and heart disease.
Other factors to consider include affordability and compatibility with your beliefs.
Talk to your healthcare provider at Women’s Healthcare of Garden City to establish the form of birth control that works for you best.