Birth Control

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Birth Control

When it comes to preventing unwanted pregnancy, you have many birth control options. However, you may not know what method of birth control is best for you. Dedicated to helping you stay in control of your body and your health, the board-certified OB/GYNs at The Center for Women’s Health in Newport News, Virginia, offer birth control consultations. They work closely with you to help you determine the birth control that best fits your current and future pregnancy needs, as well as your health needs. Call the nearest office or book an appointment online today.

Birth Control Q & A

What is birth control?

Birth control, also called contraception, prevents unwanted pregnancy and includes various methods, devices, procedures, and medications. Though there are many birth control options, some methods work better at preventing pregnancy than others. Some forms of birth control can even help you manage a gynecological condition or protect you from an STD.

What are the types of birth control?

There are many types of birth control. Some of the most common types include:

Sterilization

Sterilization is a permanent form of birth control. For women, sterilization involves cutting or blocking the fallopian tubes (tubal ligation) to prevent sperm from reaching your egg for fertilization.

Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs)

LARCs include intrauterine devices (IUDs) like Mirena® and hormonal implants like Nexplanon®.

Once in place, LARCs prevent pregnancy for 3-5 years, depending on the type. They work by either preventing ovulation, stopping sperm from reaching your egg, or making it impossible for an egg to implant into your uterus.

The Center for Women’s Health offers LARCs as a birth control option and places the device during an in-office procedure.

Short-term hormonal birth control

Short-term hormonal birth control includes the birth control pill, shot, and patch. These methods stop ovulation or sperm from reaching your egg.

In addition to preventing pregnancy, short-term hormonal birth control may be recommended to help manage symptoms caused by various gynecological conditions, such as menorrhagia, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and endometriosis.

Barrier methods

Diaphragms, cervical caps, and condoms are barrier methods of birth control. Barrier methods stop sperm from reaching your egg. Condoms may also provide additional protection against STDs.

What can I expect during a birth control consultation?

You can expect a comprehensive evaluation when you come in to see the experts at The Center for Women’s Health for a birth control consultation. During your exam, your provider reviews your sexual and gynecological history, as well as your current and future pregnancy plans. Your provider may also conduct a physical and pelvic exam and run various lab tests to better understand your overall health and wellness needs. With this information, your OB/GYN reviews your birth control options, and you’ll work together to determine the method best suited to your health needs. To schedule your birth control consultation, call The Center for Women’s Health or book online today.