Factors to Consider when Choosing a Birth Control Method

Birth control, also known as contraception, has to do with the various ways in which sexually active people prevent conception. There are about fifteen safe birth control methods. However, there is not one of them that is best for everyone. Although most of them are almost perfect in preventing pregnancy, the people are not perfect, and therefore, mistakes are bound to happen. Besides, people’s goals insofar as contraception is concerned are different. For instance, some people are okay with contraception methods that can sterilize them completely while others want methods that won’t stop them from having children in the future. Therefore, before you settle for any given birth control method, you have to understand yourself and consult a reliable OB/GYN in San Antonio. Below are some of the important factors that you should consider as you make this important decision.

Can Contraception Be a part of your Daily Routine?

If you are an extremely organized person, you have quite a broad range of birth control methods to choose from. This is because it is unlikely for you to forget about your contraception. For instance, you go for methods that require your daily attention or even pick contraceptives that you only need to take when you want to have sex, such as condoms or pills. If you are afraid that you may forget to take your contraceptives every day or every time you have sex, then you may use methods that do not need your daily attention such as implants or injections.

Are you Comfortable with Inserts?

When it comes to choosing the right contraception for yourself, you have to consider how comfortable you are. If you are okay with inserts, some common ones that you can choose from include:

• Intrauterine device (IUD)
• Intrauterine system (IUS)
• Diaphragm
• Vaginal ring
• Female Condoms

Do you Smoke?

Most methods of contraception can safely be used by smokers. However, if you are a smoker above 35 years of age, some contraceptives such as the vaginal ring and the combined pill may not be appropriate for you. Instead, you can consider using other methods such as:

• Intrauterine device (IUD)
• Progestogen-only pill
• Contraceptive implant
• Intrauterine system (IUS)
• Contraceptive injection

All in all, it is wise for you to consult your doctor before making this decision.

Do you Mind if your Periods Change?

Some birth control methods can significantly alter your periods. Some are going to make your periods lighter and probably more frequent, while others can make them heavier and more irregular. Talk to your gynecologist to know what you can expect.

How soon do you want your Fertility to Return?

Most birth control methods can be stopped when you want to get pregnant. However, it may take longer to regain your fertility after stopping some kinds of contraception. For instance, some women can take up to a year to restore their fertility after stopping the contraceptive injection. Therefore, it is wise to talk to your gynecologist about how soon you would like to regain your fertility for you to make the most appropriate decision.

The Bottom Line

Overall, it is apparent that if you are looking for the most appropriate birth control method, there is no single contraception that is best for everyone. Therefore, it is imperative for you to understand yourself and what you want and then seek the assistance of a reliable OB/GYN for you to pick the best birth control method.