Which Type of Birth Control Is Right for Me?

A birth control method should fit into your daily life without hassles. So many different options are available today that it can be overwhelming to sort through all of the information necessary to make a decision on your own.

Monique Petteys, FNP-C at The Women’s Center at Life Point Medical can help you find the right birth control option. We take into consideration your medical history, lifestyle, and other factors to help you decide which contraceptive method is the best fit.

Types of birth control

A birth control method that works perfectly for one woman may not be the right choice for another. Bodies and lives are different, and with so many options there’s something for everyone. Let’s take a look at the different types of contraception:

Non-hormonal (barrier) birth control

These types of birth control physically block sperm from reaching the egg, preventing pregnancy. They are effective when used properly, but they do leave some room for error, so reach out to us if you have any questions about how to use these methods.

Examples of non-hormonal birth control methods include:

• Condoms (male and female)
• Diaphragms
• Contraceptive sponge
• Cervical cap
• Copper intrauterine device (the copper in the non-hormonal IUD affects sperm’s ability to move, preventing fertilization) 

Hormonal birth control

When you use a form of hormonal birth control, your body doesn’t ovulate, or release eggs. Without eggs to be fertilized, pregnancy is not possible while consistently using birth control. 

Types of hormonal birth control include:

• Birth control pills
• Birth control implant 
• Birth control injection
• Estrogen ring (or NuvaRing)
• Hormonal IUD 

Tubal ligation

A tubal ligation is more commonly known as “having your tubes tied.” Many women choose this option after they have had children, or if they know they never want to carry a child.

During a tubal ligation, the fallopian tubes are tied off, blocking the eggs’ path to the uterus. This is a permanent method of birth control, and though it can be reversed, some women are still unable to get pregnant after reversal.

Which type of birth control should I choose?

At The Women’s Center at Life Point Medical, we want to help you find a birth control method that meets all your needs. We spend time learning about you, your health, and your lifestyle so we can give you the best options to make an informed choice.

Here are some points of consideration we may discuss when assisting you in your choice of birth control:

• Medical history
• Existing health conditions
• Family planning goals
• Marital status
• Lifestyle and personal habits

Regardless of the type of birth control you choose, know that The Women’s Center at Life Point Medical is here to support you in your decision. Schedule a visit at our office in Clayton, Georgia by phone or online to learn more about the right contraceptive options for you.