Now accepting Telehealth appointments. Schedule a virtual visit.

Contraception Options

If you are looking to prevent pregnancy in the short term, long term or permanently, you may be overwhelmed with all the options available. Here are the pros and cons of the most common methods of contraception.

 

Contraceptive Pills, Patches and Vaginal rings

There are two types, combined (estrogen and progesterone) which come in pills, patches or vaginal rings and progesterone only which is only available in pills. 

Pros: approximately 92% effective at preventing pregnancy, easy and convenient, usually covered by insurance or with a small co-pay, can help regulate cycles, can improve PMS symptoms and improve acne

Cons: must be taken around the same time everyday, not appropriate for everyone especially the options that contain estrogen

 

Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)

There are two types of IUDs, ones containing progesterone (Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta) and a copper IUD (Paragard)

Pros: Over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, one time insertion provides pregnancy protection for 5 to 10 years depending on the type of IUD, progesterone containing IUDs can significantly lighten your periods or stop them completely and improve cramping, quick return to fertility (immediately with Paragard and in as little as 10 days with progesterone containing IUDs once removed)

Cons: requires an office visit for insertion, Paragard IUD can cause heavier and more painful cycles for the first 6 months, can cause some discomfort or cramping with insertion, rare risks of pelvic inflammatory disease or uterine perforation

 

Nexplanon

Pros: Over 99.9% effective at preventing pregnancy, one time insertion provides pregnancy protection for up to 3 years, quick return to fertility (in as little as 10 days once removed), easy insertion in the upper arm

Cons: requires an office visit for insertion, most common side effect is spotting or irregular bleeding

 

Depo Provera

Pros: Approximately 96% effective at preventing pregnancy, one injection every 3 months, can stop your periods

Cons: this is the only type of contraception that has been proven to cause weight gain, can cause irregular bleeding, longer time to return to fertility (sometimes up to 1 year), requires a visit every 3 months 

 

Tubal Ligation (salpingectomy or tubal occlusion)

Pros: Over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, permanent, does not affect menstrual cycle, salpingectomy (removal of fallopian tubes) can reduce your lifetime risk of ovarian cancer

Cons: cannot be reversed, requires an outpatient surgical procedure

 

Barrier Methods (male and female condoms, diaphragm)

Pros: Available without a prescription, the only methods that help prevent transmission of sexually transmitted infections including HIV and Hepatitis

Cons: Must be used with every sexual encounter, higher rates of pregnancy if not used correctly (approximately 80-85% effective at preventing pregnancy)



Premier OB-Gyn is accepting new patients in both our Maitland, FL and Oviedo, FL locations. We would be happy to see you! Please call 321-397-1212 or visit www.premierob-gyn.com to book your appointment!

Author
Allison Bradley-Amore, DO, FACOOG Allison Bradley-Amore, D.O., F.A.C.O.O.G. is a Board-Certified OB-Gyn physician who joined Premier OB-Gyn in 2018. Dr. Bradley-Amore is originally from Groveland, Massachusetts, a small town north of Boston. She received her Bachelor of Science degree from Davidson College in North Carolina and earned her Master of Science degree from Tufts University in Boston. She received her doctoral degree from Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2014. She was elected Chief Resident of the University of Central Florida’s Obstetrics and Gynecology residency at Osceola Medical Center. She is a huge Disney fan and can be found exploring Walt Disney World during her time off.

You Might Also Enjoy...

Tiktok Made Me Do It: Vaginal Health Edition

While TikTok can be a source of entertainment, it is important to be cautious about taking advice on sensitive topics like vaginal health from social media platforms, including TikTok. Here are some reasons why you should exercise caution.

Coping with Morning Sickness During the Holidays

The holiday season is a time for joy and celebration. But if you find yourself struggling with morning sickness, it can be a real challenge. Here are some strategies to help you make the most of the holidays while managing the symptoms.

Love, Risks and Taylor Swift

Who hasn't heard of Taylor Swift at this point? It would be fun to talk about an uncomfortable subject with her help! Let's explore the decision to open ourselves up to love and sex.

Am I Normal? Vaginal Discharge

Vaginal discharge is a normal and natural part of reproductive health. Yet, it's a topic that many people feel uncomfortable discussing openly. 

It's Spooky Season! Are You Afraid to Visit the Gyn?

There are lots of frightening things out there this time of year. You know the best thing for your health is to see your gynecologist... but what if you have anxiety about the visit and the exam? Here are some tips to reduce anxiety when visiting your Gyn.