Birth Control

What is birth control?

Birth control is a method that reduces your risk of becoming pregnant while sexually active. 

Birth control works by preventing sperm from reaching an egg, preventing your ovaries from releasing eggs, damaging sperm, thickening cervical mucus, or altering the thickness of your uterine lining to prevent implantation. 

Some forms of birth control also help prevent sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

What are the different types of birth control?

Examples of different forms of birth control include:

Barrier methods

Barrier methods block sperm from reaching your eggs. Examples include male and female condoms, sponges, spermicides, diaphragms, and cervical caps. Condoms also reduce the risk of contracting STDs. 

Implants

Birth control implants are tiny rods that Emily inserts under the skin in your upper arm. They help prevent pregnancy by releasing a steady stream of hormones into your body for about three years. 

She can replace the implant as needed and remove it at any time. Birth control implants are nearly 100% effective.

Intrauterine divides (IUDs)

IUDs are tiny T-shaped devices Emily inserts into your uterus to prevent pregnancy using copper or hormones. They can remain in your uterus for up to 10 years.

Shots

Birth control shots are injections containing hormones. They work by stopping ovulation and thickening the cervical mucus. These shots offer pregnancy protection for about three months.

Other birth control methods

Empowered Health and Wellness also offers birth control pills, vaginal rings, and patches to reduce the chance you’ll become pregnant while sexually active.

Emergency contraception

Taking emergency contraception (morning-after pill) within 3-5 days of having unprotected sexual intercourse can reduce your risk of pregnancy. 

Surgery

If you’d like to permanently prevent a pregnancy, Emily offers referrals to surgeons who complete tubal ligations, vasectomies, and other sterilization procedures. 

Which form of birth control is right for me?

Emily discusses your medical history, medications, lifestyle, and goals to determine which birth control method best suits you. She may complete physical and pelvic exams and order lab tests or other diagnostic tests.

It’s important to use birth control exactly as instructed to ensure utmost effectiveness. 

Emily periodically monitors you to make sure you’re happy with your plan and can alter it as needed based on varying preferences or family planning goals. She’s always available to address your questions or concerns and offers birth control prescription refills. 

Schedule a birth control evaluation at Empowered Health and Wellness today by calling the office or booking a visit with Emily online.