Women become sexually active as early as twelve years. This means even teenage girls can get pregnant if they engage in unprotected sex. Also, even as a mature woman, you don’t want to have a lot of kids, particularly with the current economic hardships. Fortunately, a couple of birth control methods can prevent unwanted pregnancies in sexually active women. Dr. Jerome Washington San Antonio, a board-certified physician at LUNA MED SPA & WASHINGTON OB-GYN, P.A., offers effective birth control options that match your preferences and needs. Looking for the right birth control type? Here is everything you need to know.
What Exactly Is Birth Control?
Birth control refers to various treatments that significantly decrease your risk of getting pregnant while sexually active. You will have peace of mind knowing you are protected from unwanted pregnancy. Birth control methods function by preventing egg release, fertilization, or implantation into the uterus.
What Are the Different Types of Birth Control?
There are several types of birth control. these include;
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Barrier Methods
Barrier birth control methods prevent the sperm from fertilizing the ova. Examples of these methods include condoms, diaphragms, sponges, and cervical caps. You must remember to use barrier birth control methods every time you have sexual intercourse.
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Implants
Birth control implants are placed underneath your skin in the upper arm. These implants effectively prevent pregnancy for several years by slowly releasing hormones that suppress fertilization.
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Patches
Birth control patches are some of the easiest to use. Your doctor provides you with prescription patches to put on your skin. The patches gradually release hormones that prevent pregnancy. However, you need to replace them according to your doctor’s instructions for them to be effective.
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Birth Control Pills
Birth control pills are taken orally daily as directed by your doctor to prevent pregnancy effectively.
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Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)
Intrauterine devices are small devices inserted into your uterus via the vagina to prevent fertilization and pregnancy. Non-hormonal and hormonal intrauterine devices are available based on your preference.
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Vaginal Rings
Next on the list of birth control pills is vaginal rings. The birth control rings are placed into your vagina to constantly release hormones and prevent you from becoming pregnant.
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Birth Control Injections
You can also opt for Depo-Provera birth control injections. The injections prevent pregnancy for months or years, depending on your preference.
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Sterilization
Sterilization is a permanent birth control method for women who don’t want to become pregnant ever again. This surgical birth control method is known as tubal ligation or occlusion.
Which Is the Right Birth Control Method for You?
The right choice of birth control depends on your preference, lifestyle, and health. It will also depend on whether you want to have or not have kids in the future. To know the best birth control method, you should consult a gynecologist. The doctor will examine your medical history and perform physical examinations to analyze your overall health.
Birth control methods are very effective in helping sexually active women avoid unwanted pregnancies. Couples can also use birth control to plan their family regarding the number of kids and when they want to get them. The physicians at LUNA MED SPA & WASHINGTON OB-GYN, P.A. provide a full range of gynecology and obstetrics services for patients aged twelve and above. Call or schedule an appointment online today to find the best birth control type for you.
