When it comes to deciding which type of birth control fits into your lifestyle, there are many things to consider. With the sheer amount of types of contraceptives on the market, you have lots of options available to you! Here are some of the most popular types of birth control that you can choose from.
Pill
Birth control pills are one of the most commonly used forms of contraception. There are dozens of different brands, but there are only two types of pills. The first is the combined pill, which contains both estrogen and progestin, and the second is the progestin only pill. With both variations, you take one pill every day to prevent getting pregnant.
Patch
Another option is an adhesive patch that you can stick directly onto your skin. The patch produces estrogen and progestin to prevent ovulation and is worn for 3 weeks at a time. When the third week is up, the patch is removed for a week and that is when you have your period.
Ring
The ring is a type of birth control that releases estrogen and progestin that prevent ovulation. They are plastic and are inserted into the vagina for three weeks at a time. On the four week, the ring is removed and then you have your period.
Condom
There are two different types of condoms: male and female. The male condom, usually made of latex, creates a covering that goes over the penis. The female condom is a plastic pouch that lines the vagina the create a barrier during sex. Both create a physical barrier for sperm to enter and must be worn every time you have sex to be effective.
Injection
The injection is a shot that is filled with progestin that prevents ovulation. It is given by a doctor or nurse once every three months.
Implant
An insertion of an implant that contains etonogestrel, a hormone that prevents ovulation, is a form of long term birth control. The implant is a rod about the size of a matchstick that is inserted under the skin of your arm. While the implant can stay inserted for up to three years, your doctor can remove it at any time.
IUD
Another long term form of birth control is the intrauterine device, otherwise known as an IUD. There are two types of IUDs: hormonal and copper. Both are small T-shaped devices that are inserted in the uterus by a doctor. For hormonal IUDs, the hormone levonorgestrel creates a barrier of cervical mucus to keep sperm out of the uterus. For copper IUDs, the copper causes sperm to be unable to fertilize eggs. Hormonal IUDs last from three to five years, and copper IUDs last up to ten years, but they can both be removed at any time by a doctor.
Now that you’ve been able to understand your birth control options, we would love to talk with you about what Doylestown Women’s Health Center can do to help. Our all women gynecologists are available to Doylestown, PA and surrounding area residents. Give us a call at 215-340-2229 to schedule your appointment today!