Birth Control Specialist

What Types of Birth Control Are Available?

Today, women have several methods of birth control to consider, including birth control pills, diaphragms, IUDs, arm implants, and more permanent options like ESSURE® sterilization and tubal ligation. To select the best option, women need to consider their lifestyles, whether they plan to have children in the future, whether they want to “interact” with their birth control method on a regular basis, and other factors. Scheduling an office visit is the first step in learning about all the available options and their relative benefits.

How Does an IUD Work?

IUDs (or intrauterine devices) are T-shaped devices that are inserted into the uterus during a simple in-office procedure. Once in place, the IUD’s copper coating causes the uterus to produce a liquid that’s toxic to sperm to help prevent conception from taking place. Some IUDs use hormones in addition to copper to improve their efficacy. IUDs have a long plastic “tail” that extends into the vaginal canal. Before having sexual intercourse, feeling for the tail ensures the IUD is still in place and hasn’t fallen out. The tail can also be used to remove the IUD during a subsequent office visit.

Are Hormonal Forms of Birth Control Safe?

Yes, birth control methods that use hormones must go through rigorous clinical testing to ensure they’re safe for women to use on a regular basis. While using these types of birth control, regular office visits can help ensure the method remains effective and address any side effects you might experience, including sore breasts and abnormal periods.

Can Tubal Ligation Be Reversed?

Tubal ligation uses techniques to prevent the eggs from reaching the uterus so fertilization cannot take place. While tubal ligation can sometimes be successfully reversed, in general, it should be considered a form of permanent birth control, used only in women who do not plan to become pregnant in the future.

How Does a Diaphragm Work?

Diaphragms fit snugly over the cervix (the uterine opening) to prevent sperm from reaching the uterus and the egg. They’re used in combination with spermicides to increase their efficacy.