Birth Control Options That Fit Your Life
If you are sexually active and want to avoid pregnancy, Marina OB/GYN can help you find a safe, effective birth control method that matches your lifestyle and health needs. Our experienced team offers every major form of contraception, from pills and rings to same-day IUD placement and permanent options, at seven offices across Los Angeles County.
Book OnlineWhat Is Birth Control?
Birth control, or contraception, includes any method used to prevent pregnancy. Some methods are short-term, others last for years, and some are permanent. Beyond preventing pregnancy, many hormonal methods also help regulate periods, reduce cramps, improve acne, and manage conditions such as heavy bleeding, PCOS, and endometriosis.
Which Birth Control Method Is Best for Me?
Your provider reviews your medical history, lifestyle, and preferences, checks your vital signs, and performs an exam or tests if needed. Together, you’ll weigh effectiveness, convenience, side effects, and your future pregnancy plans to choose the right method.
Types of Birth Control
Intrauterine devices (IUDs): Hormonal or copper IUDs are placed inside the uterus and last for years. They are among the most effective and popular forms of birth control, and we offer same-day, nearly painless placement.
Implants: A small rod placed under the skin of the upper arm releases hormones that prevent pregnancy for several years.
Birth control pills: Daily pills are simple and effective when taken exactly as directed.
Vaginal rings: A flexible ring inserted monthly releases hormones similar to the pill.
Barrier methods: Male and female condoms and diaphragms are hormone-free but must be used every time. Condoms also help protect against sexually transmitted infections, including HPV.
Permanent birth control: Tubal ligation, tubal occlusion, and hysterectomy are permanent options for women who are certain they don’t want future pregnancies.
What If I Want to Get Pregnant Later?
With pills, rings, implants, and IUDs, fertility usually returns quickly after you stop or have the device removed. Permanent methods are not reliably reversible, so they are best for women who have completed their families. When you’re ready, our team provides complete pregnancy care.
Women approaching menopause should continue contraception until menopause is confirmed. Explore all of our OB/GYN services.
Birth Control FAQs
What is the most effective form of birth control?
IUDs and implants are the most effective reversible methods, preventing more than 99 percent of pregnancies.
Which birth control has the fewest side effects?
It varies by person. Copper IUDs are hormone-free, and hormonal IUDs release very little hormone into the bloodstream. Your provider will help you choose.
Can birth control help with heavy or painful periods?
Yes. Hormonal pills, rings, and IUDs often make periods lighter and less painful.
How quickly can I get pregnant after stopping birth control?
For most reversible methods, fertility returns quickly, often within a few weeks to months.
Do I need a pelvic exam to get birth control?
Not always. Many methods can be prescribed after a health history review and blood pressure check.
Does birth control protect against STIs?
Only condoms help protect against sexually transmitted infections. Other methods prevent pregnancy only.
Is permanent birth control reversible?
Permanent methods are not reliably reversible, so they are best for women who are certain they don’t want future pregnancies.