Understanding different types of birth control
Whatever stage of life you're in — not ready to have children yet, are done growing your family, or choose not to have children for other reasons — there are many different types of birth control to choose from that will fit your health and family needs.
"Choosing from the various birth control options can be a difficult and very personal decision," said Thomas Duncan, DO. "We, as OB/GYNs, are here to help you find the best choice that fits your life and current situation while avoiding potential side effects."
Birth Control and Family Planning
Your birth control needs and methods are likely to change throughout your life. It's important to understand your options and how they work before making a choice. Some of the most popular birth control methods are available over the counter, while others require a prescription. Before deciding about birth control, talk to your primary care provider about your medical history and family planning goals.
Barrier Methods
Barrier contraception prevents sperm from reaching the egg by covering the cervix and blocking sperm from entering the uterus. They are 70% to 88% effective at preventing pregnancy when used correctly. Barrier birth control must be used every time you have sex and is more effective with spermicide, a type of foam, cream, or gel that kills sperm. Barrier methods include:
- Condoms, which are the only type of birth control that both prevents pregnancy and protects against most sexually transmitted infections.
- Contraceptive Sponges, which can remain in place up to 24 hours prior to intercourse, contain spermicide and can only be used once.
Hormonal Birth Control Methods
Hormonal birth control is more than 90% effective at preventing pregnancy for most women. Some women find that hormonal contraception improves their skin and regulates their menstrual cycle, while others may experience side effects like bloating, depression, mood swings, or weight gain. The most common delivery methods of hormonal birth control are birth control pills, injections, patches, and vaginal rings. Costs vary for the different methods, and all require a prescription.
Emergency Contraception
Emergency contraception is often called the morning-after pill. It is a type of hormonal birth control that will prevent the implantation of a fertilized egg when taken the day after unprotected sex. This medication is available over the counter but can be expensive. It should not be used as a regular form of birth control.
IUDs
Intrauterine devices, or IUDs, are 99% effective. They are tiny barriers implanted by a provider and can protect against pregnancy for 3 to 10 years, depending on the type of IUD. They can also be removed at any time if you decide you want to try to get pregnant.
- Copper IUDs have no hormones and can stay in your uterus for up to 10 years but may make menstrual cramps and bleeding worse for some women.
- Hormonal IUDs use progestin to prevent pregnancy, last for 3 to 7 years and may also improve acne and cramping.
Permanent Birth Control
If you are certain you do not want more children or choose never to have them, a more permanent method called sterilization is available. Permanent birth control requires surgery and can be done at any time, but many women who are giving birth and do not wish to have any more children choose to have the procedure right after their delivery.
Tubal ligation, also called getting your tubes tied, is a minor surgery that either cuts or closes the fallopian tubes. After the procedure, when your egg leaves your ovary each month, it will not travel to your uterus. You will still get your period. Another type of tubal ligation procedure to consider if you desire permanent sterilization is a salpingectomy, where both fallopian tubes are removed.
Men may also opt to have a vasectomy, also called male sterilization. Less invasive than tubal ligation, this procedure prevents sperm from entering semen. Men still will ejaculate normally after a vasectomy.
Making a Decision About Birth Control
You have many options for birth control, and those options can change as needed. A specific type of birth control that works for your family planning goals in your 20s may not work when you're in your 30s.