Which Type Of Birth Control Is Right For You?
If getting pregnant isn't on your list of to-do's this year, you should really be using some type of birth control to prevent against an unplanned pregnancy. There are a number of different types of birth control you can use, anything from pills to a shot to an intrauterine device (IUD). The type you choose depends on you, which includes your sexual activity and how long you may want to postpone pregnancy. Read on for a list of birth control methods and information about each to determine which may be best for you.
Birth Control Pills
Birth control pills have been around for quite some time. They come in a variety of different types, including high or low estrogen (depending on your body), and others that allow you to skip your period for months at a time. If you can remember to take a pill each day at the same time, this may be the right type of birth control for you. If you easily forget things, the pill may not be the right choice for you. Birth control pills should be taken orally every day around the same time for it to be effective.
You can stop taking birth control pills when you want to begin planning for a family, although you should not cease taking them all at once. Follow your gynecologist's instructions on how to stop taking your birth control pills.
Patch Or Shot
A birth control patch can be applied to the skin and is changed out weekly. It helps prevent against unplanned pregnancies, although if you aren't too keen on wearing a patch that may be seen or have to worry about stick residue being stuck on your skin, this may not be for you.
An injectable birth control shot can be given every three months to help prevent an unplanned pregnancy. The injection is given at the gynecologist's office every three months. If you don't want to have to squeeze that time in to make it to the gynecologist every three months, this may not be for you. Additionally, if you don't like getting shots, this also may not be for you.
IUD
An IUD is a device that is implanted in the uterus. Depending on the type you use, it can remain there for up to 5 years. If you aren't planning on having any children for quite some time, or are done having children (but aren't ready to have your tubes tied or a hysterectomy), this may be the right choice for you. Having the IUD implanted can be done in the office. Be aware that you may feel some discomfort afterward. You may even bleed for a few days or weeks afterward (much like a period). The IUD helps prevent ovulation, which will reduce your risk of pregnancy.
These are only a few types of birth control methods. They can help protect against an unplanned pregnancy, but not STDs. Talk to your gynecologist about birth control methods to help you decide which is best for you.