Birth Control Options

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From the fish bladder condoms of 3,000 B.C. to the tiny once-a-day pill that became popular in the ’60s, birth control methods have been multiplying like rabbits.

Now you can not only wear or swallow your birth control method, but you can also insert it, inject it, cap it or even stick it on. All these options, on top of all their pros and cons, can sure leave a girl feeling a bit overwhelmed.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST BIRTH CONTROL METHOD:

Thank goodness we don’t have to figure this out on our own. Your doctor is your best source in helping you decide which birth control method(s) is right for you and your body as age, weight, medical history and lifestyle all play big roles in what type of pregnancy prevention will work best.

When choosing a birth control method thinking about 

  • when and if you are interested in getting pregnant, 

  • how reliable you are in taking regular medications, 

  • how much effort you want to put into their birth control method, and 

  • whether or not they want to have control over stopping or starting your birth control 

BIRTH CONTROL METHODS

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NOTE:

IUD

  • In-office hormonal intrauterine devices (commonly called IUDs, but there are nonhormonal versions as well), pills and the ring. 

  • IUDs are a most effective method and are inserted once and last for years, many women stop getting their periods. 

THE PILL

Similarly, pills have been a reliable method for over 50 years and can have positive side effects (acne reduction), but they are only as effective as the person who uses them. Most users have trouble taking it 100% perfectly. Additionally, the pill can cause side effects like weight gain, sore breasts, nausea, spotting or decreased sex drive, she says.

RING or BARRIER

Rings are similar to birth control pills in that they both work on a monthly cycle and have similar side effects, but the ring is inserted (like a tampon) only once each month and avoids the risk of forgetting to take the pill on a daily basis.

YOUR NEXT STEP

Dr Alexander can talk to you about contraceptive methods and can offer advice. Arrange an appointment now for peace of mind and body.

We would advise that you see your general practitioner and possibly obtain a referral to see Dr Alexander at www.alexalexander.com.au