These days, shopping for birth control can feel way too complicated, especially when you can’t get away from contraception advertisements and your friends keep chiming in with their opinions.
So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by birth control options, you’re in the right place.
At Marina OB/GYN, our team wants to take the confusion out of contraception and help you find the best method. Here’s your simple, comprehensive guide to picking the birth control that fits you best.
1. Pay us a visit
The best way to overcome the overwhelming process of selecting birth control is to schedule an appointment with our team. We know the ins and outs of your health history and can help you decide which birth control (if any) is right for you.
Based on your needs, we can recommend:
- Barrier methods, such as condoms and diaphragms
- Implants
- Intrauterine devices (IUDs)
- Birth control pills
- Rings
- Permanent birth control, including tubal ligation
Make sure you update us on any changes to your health, including mental health issues and changes in your menstrual cycle. Side effects from birth control are rare, especially if we know beforehand if you have a health condition that could cause you to have an adverse reaction.
2. Consider your lifestyle
Everyone’s different, has different needs, and lives a different lifestyle — fortunately, there’s a birth control option that works perfectly for you.
When making your decision, consider your answers to the following questions:
- How often do I want to have sex?
- Will I forget to take a daily pill?
- Do I want to be able to get pregnant in the future?
- Am I concerned about sexually transmitted diseases?
- How do I feel about hormonal birth control?
- Does the method I choose offer other benefits, like lighter periods?
- Does the method I choose align with my religious beliefs?
- Are there any side effects?
We talk through these questions and more to help you narrow down your options. For instance, if you’re forgetful, you may want to opt for a monthly shot or an implanted contraceptive. Those who want to get pregnant in the future tend to choose methods like The Pill and IUDs that can be stopped or removed easily.
3. Keep doing your research
In the end, no one knows your body better than you, so we recommend you continue to research your options and ask questions before making your final decision. As you become more familiar with your choices, you can make a completely informed decision.
Also, remember that aside from permanent birth control, you can try a few different types of contraception to find the one that works best for you, your lifestyle, and your partner.
If you still have questions, don’t hesitate to request an appointment online or over the phone today at our Marina Del Rey, Hawthorne, South Gate, or Carson, California, office.