What is birth control?
If you’re sexually active and don’t want to have a baby, you should be on birth control. Also called contraception, birth control refers to any method, medication, or device that prevents pregnancy.
Although birth control prevents pregnancy, most forms don’t protect you against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The only way to protect yourself from STDs is to use a latex condom every time you have sex.
What are the different types of birth control?
There are many types of birth control available today. Some forms of birth control, such as condoms, are available over the counter. Others, such as the pill, require a prescription.
Dr. Hobbs offers various types of birth control, including:
Short-acting hormonal methods
These methods include birth control pills you can take orally, patches, shots, and vaginal rings. They’re short-acting, which means you need to take a pill every day, replace a patch every week, or change a vaginal ring every month. A birth control shot lasts three months.
Pills, patches, and rings are 91% effective at preventing pregnancy, while the shot is 94% effective.
Long-acting reversible contraceptives
Long-acting reversible contraceptives, or LARCs, include intrauterine devices (IUDs) and birth control implants. They’re considered long-acting because, once inserted, they prevent pregnancy for 3-10 years, depending on the type.
LARCs are the most effective form of reversible birth control, preventing more than 99% of pregnancies without any action from you.
How can I choose the best type of birth control for me?
When it comes to birth control, there’s no single best option for everyone. Dr. Hobbs spends time listening to your personal needs and explains the benefits and disadvantages of each type of birth control so you can make an informed decision.
Before choosing a form of birth control, Dr. Hobbs may discuss the following with you:
- When and if you want to get pregnant in the future
- How well each form of birth control works
- Your personal preferences for using birth control
- Possible side effects of different methods
- Your overall health
The ideal form of birth control for you and your partner may change over the years.
To learn more about birth control, call the office of Calvin L. Hobbs, MD, PC, or book an appointment online today.
