Many birth control methods can prevent pregnancy and protect against STDs. Choosing a contraceptive can feel overwhelming for most couples. Aurora OB/GYN can assist you in determining the best contraception San Antonio method for your needs and preferences. Here are tips for choosing the best birth control method.
Do You Intend to Have Children?
When choosing a birth control method, you need to determine if you want to have children in the future. In that case, the birth control method should be easily reversible.
You can discontinue barrier methods like condoms or the pill as soon as you want to get pregnant. You can also use short-acting hormonal methods. Hormonal patches last for three months, and injections for one month.
An IUD would be more convenient if you don’t intend to get pregnant. An IUD (Intra-Uterine Device) is a T-shaped device that your OB/GYN inserts into the uterus. Copper IUDs release minute quantities of copper to stop the sperm from fertilizing the egg.
A copper IUD can last up to ten years. Hormonal IUDs release hormones instead of copper and last three to five years.
Does it protect against STDs?
You may want to choose a method that prevents sexually transmitted diseases if you are not in a monogamous relationship. Male and female condoms can protect against HIV and other STDS.
Condoms are highly effective at preventing pregnancy and STDs provided you use them consistently and correctly. Diaphragms, cervical caps, and spermicides are effective birth control methods, but they cannot protect you from STDs.
Oral contraceptives can be effective for people in a monogamous relationship. IUDs are also ideal for monogamous couples looking for a solution that will last for years.
What are its side effects?
Some birth control methods have side effects that can vary from one patient to the next. For example, hormonal contraceptives can cause breast tenderness, weight gain, nausea, and heavy menstrual bleeding.
Hormonal contraceptives can also increase the risk of cardiovascular problems for women over 35. Women with a history of blood clots, liver disease, or migraines are more susceptible to side effects.
If you are concerned about the side effects, consider consulting your OB/GYN. Your healthcare provider will perform tests and evaluate your medical history.
Diagnostic tests can determine if there are medications that conflict with your birth control. Talk to your OBGYN about any health conditions that may increase your risk of side effects. Your healthcare provider will suggest safe methods to prevent pregnancy and protect against STDs.
Does it match your lifestyle and budget?
Birth control methods have varying expenses. You need to choose a method that works for your lifestyle and budget. Even though some methods like the pill or condoms are inexpensive, they may be costly in the long run.
Some couples may choose permanent methods for their convenience and lower long-term costs. Sterilization methods like tubal ligation may be expensive to perform, but it is more cost-effective in the long term. But that depends on whether you intend to get pregnant in the future.
To learn more about contraceptives, call Aurora OB/GYN and schedule an appointment today.