Contraception/Birth Control

There are many methods of contraception available for you to use. Though complete abstinence from sexual activity is the only method guaranteed to work 100% of the time, these other options have high success rates:

Oral Contraceptives and Prescribed Birth Control

There is a large variety of oral contraceptives and prescribed birth control methods that may be used not only to prevent pregnancy, but also to regulate menstrual cycles, reduce menstrual blood flow, and ease period pain and bloating.

Periodic Abstinence

Periodic abstinence means abstaining from intercourse during the days when a woman can become pregnant in her menstrual cycle, or using a barrier method on those days instead.

A woman can become pregnant from 7 days before ovulation to 3 days after. There are several ways to determine when you may be fertile that you can discuss with your doctor.

Intrauterine Device

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small T-shaped device used to prevent pregnancy. It is placed in the uterus, and must be inserted and removed by your physician. IUDs have been shown to be more effective than other types of birth control, because they require very little attention and last for several years. However, IUDs do not protect you from STDs.

We provide three types of IUDs:

• Paraguard: this is a hormone-free device that contains copper and can stay in your body for up to ten years before it should be removed.
• Mirena: this device contains hormones and releases progestogen into your body. It often leads to lighter periods and can last for up to five years.
• Kyleena: this device is similar to Mirena, releasing a lower lever of progestogen into your body.  It can last up to five years.

Before your physician inserts an IUD he or she will review your medical history, and may perform a Pap smear, cultures and/or a pregnancy test when appropriate. They will discuss the risks, benefits and alternatives to an IUD with you to help you decide if it is right for you.

Nexplanon

Nexplanon is a birth control device that is inserted into the upper arm, rather than the uterus. It is effective for up to three years, continuously releasing progestin into your body to prevent pregnancy.

If you are looking for a permanent form of birth control, make sure to discuss your options with your physician.