Birth control is a highly personal choice. With many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure which method best suits you. The good news? You don’t have to make this decision alone.
At Capital Women’s Care, serving the Frederick, Mount Airy, and Urbana, Maryland, areas, our experienced team of providers guides you through the process, ensuring you find the method that fits your lifestyle and needs.
Here’s our comprehensive guide on birth control options to help you make an informed choice.
Each birth control method comes with its own set of benefits and considerations, so it’s important to understand what each option entails to find the one that’s right for you.
Taking a pill every day is a simple and effective way to prevent pregnancy. Birth control pills work by releasing hormones that stop you from ovulating. When used consistently, they not only prevent pregnancy but can also help regulate your menstrual cycle, reduce menstrual cramps, and even improve acne.
This option is ideal if you prefer a routine and don't mind the daily commitment. However, it’s crucial to take the pill at the same time every day for this method to be effective.
The birth control patch offers the same benefits as the pill but with less daily hassle. It’s just as effective as the pill when used properly, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. You simply apply the patch to your skin once a week. It’s a convenient option, but it can cause some skin irritation where applied.
The vaginal ring is another option if you prefer a monthly routine. You insert the ring into your vagina, where it releases hormones to prevent pregnancy. It’s easy to use, but some women find the insertion process a bit challenging at first.
For a hormone-free method, consider the diaphragm. You insert it before sex to block sperm from reaching your cervix. It’s reusable and gives you control, but it requires some practice to use correctly and must be paired with spermicide.
Condoms are a familiar option that not only prevents pregnancy but also protects against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). They’re easy to use and widely available. Just remember to use them consistently and correctly. You can also pair them with other methods, like birth control pills, to enhance their efficacy.
If you want long-term protection without daily maintenance, an IUD might be ideal. Our team places this small device in your uterus to prevent pregnancy. It can last up to 10 years. It’s highly effective and low-maintenance, though the insertion process may be uncomfortable.
There are two types: hormonal IUDs, which release hormones to prevent pregnancy and may reduce menstrual bleeding, and nonhormonal IUDs, which use copper to create an environment that is toxic to sperm.
Permanent contraception, also called tubal ligation or sterilization, is a reliable choice if you’re certain you don’t want to have children in the future. It’s a surgical option that provides indefinite protection. It’s important to be sure about this decision, as it’s not easily reversible.
You don’t have to choose a birth control option on your own. Our team is here to answer your questions and help you find the right option for your needs. Call Capital Women’s Care in Frederick and Mount Airy, today to schedule a birth control consultation at our location most convenient to you.
