IUDs, birth control pills, contraceptive rings – today’s birth control choices can feel overwhelming. As experts in women’s health, Prescott and Prescott Valley, Arizona, helps you navigate the wide array of birth control methods to select one that’s right for your family planning goals. If you want to start on birth control or switch methods, call the office today or book a consultation online.
Your birth control method is unique to you and should reflect your medical history, your lifestyle, your existing health, and your plans to start or expand your family. Your Prescott Women's Clinic practitioner can help you make the most informed decision when you visit the office.
If you’re over 35 and a smoker, certain forms of hormonal birth control can increase your risk of blood clots and stroke. The team can provide you with other options to prevent unwanted pregnancies without jeopardizing your health.
Hormonal methods range from daily birth control pills to long-lasting intrauterine devices (IUDs). Hormonal methods prevent pregnancy in a variety of ways. Some prevent you from ovulating, while others thicken your cervical mucus, which blocks the sperm from reaching the egg.
Your choices for hormonal methods include :
These daily pills usually contain the hormones estrogen and progestin. A "mini" pill is one with just progestin.
Birth control injections are a progestin shot that's administered once every three months. A hormonal implant is inserted under the skin of your upper arm and gradually releases hormones over a set period of time, possibly up to three years.
An IUD is a small, T-shaped piece of plastic inserted in your uterus. Hormonal IUDs last for up to five years.
The ring is a flexible plastic circle that remains in your vagina for three weeks, where it releases hormones. You take a week-long break, then insert a new ring.
Nonhormonal methods include copper IUDs, which are effective for up to 10 years. Other options include:
If protecting yourself from STDs is a priority, male and female condoms are the only birth control methods that offer STD protection.
Tubal ligation is a permanent sterilization surgery for women. You've probably heard this referred to as "getting your tubes tied." Tubal ligation works by closing or cutting your fallopian tubes. Sterilization is highly effective and is the most popular method of contraception worldwide.
For professional advice about your birth control options, call the office or book an appointment online with Prescott Women's Clinic today.
