What birth control options are available?
Austin Springs Women's Health offers a wide variety of contraceptive options based on your specific health needs, including but not limited to:
- Implants
- Birth control pills
- Intrauterine device (IUD)
- Diaphragm
Permanent birth control, including surgical tubal ligations, is also available and only recommended if you’re finished having children.
The team provides birth control recommendations based on your health history, lifestyle choices, and comfort level. You can discuss your family planning goals to determine which method is best for you.
What is an IUD?
An IUD is a long-term, reversible birth control method that involves the insertion of a small, flexible device into the uterus that prevents sperm from reaching the eggs.
Some IUDs, like Mirena® and Skyla®, contain a low dose of progesterone that thickens the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg. This type of IUD may also make your menstrual periods lighter.
A nonhormonal IUD, Paragard®, is also available if you can’t tolerate hormones. It contains copper, which affects sperm movement to make fertilization of an egg less likely.
The insertion of an IUD is a fast and virtually painless procedure done right in the office. The IUD offers long-lasting protection against pregnancy and provides 3-10 years of protection depending on which type of IUD you receive.
What is Nexplanon®?
Nexplanon is a small, flexible implant for birth control. During the implant procedure, your provider places the device under the skin of your upper arm.
This method of birth control is effective and can offer up to three years of pregnancy protection. It may be a good choice if you have difficulty remembering to take a daily pill.
If you plan on getting pregnant, your provider can remove the Nexplanon implant to accommodate your family planning needs. After three years, the device is removed permanently or a new one is inserted for continued pregnancy prevention.
What is sterilization?
Your provider can perform a sterilization procedure that obstructs your fallopian tubes, a process known as tubal ligation, or having your tubes tied.
They can use a minimally invasive surgical technique, or a traditional open surgery, based on your specific medical needs. Laparoscopic surgery is a popular choice due to its minimal risk of scarring and faster recovery time than traditional surgery.
To learn more about birth control methods, schedule an appointment online or by calling the office.
