Contraception: Which is right for you?

Considering birth control? You’re probably overwhelmed by all the options available. While most types of contraceptives have the same end game, each one offers its own unique benefits. We at Care& Family Health offer this article as a guide to help you discover which type of contraceptive is right for you.

Oral contraceptive pill

The contraceptive pill is one of the most common and effective forms of birth control available. It is normally a combination of the hormones estrogen and progestin. It’s also available as a progestin-only pill since not all women can take estrogen. Both types can interfere with a woman’s ability to ovulate, or release eggs. The standard combination pill is much more effective. When used as prescribed, the combined contraceptive pill is 91% effective at preventing pregnancy.

Patch


The contraceptive patch works similar to the oral contraceptive pill. The skin patch releases estrogen and progestin into your bloodstream. You can wear the patch on your lower abdomen, buttocks, or on your upper body. Our team at Care& prescribes you with three patches. Each week, you replace the old patch with a new one, but skip the fourth week. Skipping the fourth week allows you to have a menstrual period. The contraceptive patch is convenient, easy to use, and it’s a great method for preventing pregnancy, with around 93% effectiveness.

NuvaRing®


The NuvaRing is a vaginal hormonal contraceptive device. It releases estrogen and progesterone for three weeks, and like other forms of birth control, you stop using it on the fourth week.


This device is effective and has many benefits, which include:

  • Ease of use
  • Comfortable
  • Thins the lining of the uterus
  • No daily or weekly reminders
  • Prevents sperm cells from reaching eggs
  • Can be removed and returned as needed


Some health conditions or lifestyle habits may impact how effective the NuvaRing is at preventing pregnancy. Our team can help determine if it’s right for you. 

IUD

A longer-lasting form of birth control is the intrauterine device (IUD). The two types of IUDs are the copper IUD, which acts as a long-term spermicide, or the hormonal IUD. A hormonal IUD releases progestin. The progestin thickens cervical mucus and thins the wall of the uterus so sperm cells can’t reach an egg.


Ready to explore birth control options? Contact Care& Family Health today, or download our app for Android and IPhone to easily set up your consultation with one of our nurse practitioners. 


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