Today, there are many options as it relates to birth control. To select the one that is best suited to your needs, and those of your partner, you should consult with your OB/GYN. If you have never taken birth control before (or maybe you had a negative experience in the past), we are here to expertly guide you through your options and find one that fits best for you!

The board-certified gynecologists at Associated Women’s Healthcare have years of experience helping women with contraceptive counseling. They have extensive knowledge of every safe contraceptive available and will walk you through each one to find the best option for you. Contact Associated Women’s Healthcare today to schedule an appointment in Plano, TX. Give our office a call at (972) 612-8829.

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Intrauterine Device (IUD)

An IUD is a contraceptive device that is inserted in your uterus.  There are hormonal IUDs (Mirena, Kyleena) that delivers a small amount of hormone directly to the uterus and a non-hormonal copper (Paraguard) IUD.  These last for many years ranging from 5 to 10 and are convenient and low maintenance.  An IUD works through several different actions that include thickening the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from entering the uterus, inhibiting the sperm from reaching or fertilizing an egg, and making the lining of the uterus thin. They are over 99% effective with regards to birth control and easily removable in the office if a patient is looking to become pregnant immediately.  We offer multiple options for pain control during the insertion or removal procedure including Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas) sedation.

Implant

The arm implant (Nexplanon) is a great birth control option for patients.  The implant lasts for 3 years and is the most effective form of birth control that exists!  It is a small rod about the size of a match that is placed underneath the skin of the underside of your non-dominant upper arm.  This is done during a brief office procedure then you have effective pregnancy prevention for 3 years.

Birth Control Pills

Birth control pills are a form of oral contraception that are taken daily to prevent a woman’s ovaries from releasing eggs. They also help to prevent pregnancy by causing the cervical mucus to thicken, which blocks sperm from fertilizing an egg.  There are many kinds of birth control with contain different hormones and doses.  There are beneficial effects of birth control pills as well including improved acne, lighter periods and less cramping pain with your period.  If you would be consistent taking a pill everyday this may be a good option for you. Birth control pills are safe, effective, and convenient.

Birth Control Patch

The patch is a form of birth control that a patient wears on the skin and looks like a small band aid. The hormones it contains are similar to those used in birth control pills but are absorbed through the skin.  Patches are worn for one week at a time then changed.  This is a great alternative for patients who might not remember to take a pill consistently everyday.

Vaginal Ring

A vaginal ring is a form of contraception that is soft, flexible, and worn in the vagina. The key benefit of the ring is that a patient does not need to take it daily to get complete monthly protection. The ring is inserted into the vagina and remains in place for 3 weeks.  It is then removed and 7 days later a new ring is placed. For patients that use menstrual cups this is a comfortable option.

Injection (DMPA or Depo)

There is an injectable form of birth control that is a shot you receive in our office once every three months.  You can make your next injection appointment before you leave the office so you’re always on time and protected.  This is another low maintenance option that is excellent for patients.

Permanent Contraception or Sterilization (Tubal Ligation)

Fertility is a woman’s personal choice but when she is sure she does not want to have children in the future she can choose permanent contraception with surgery.  Some women refer to this as “tying your tubes” or “getting your tubes tied”.  Female sterilization or tubal ligation is a procedure during your gynecologist will either block the tube or remove the fallopian tube completely to prevent future pregnancy. By blocking or removing the fallopian tubes sperm cannot reach the egg to fertilize it.  This is a surgical procedure done in the operating room but most patients return home within a few hours and have a short recovery period. Patients should be aware that the procedure provides permanent birth control and is NOT reversible. If a woman is unsure if she wants to have children in the future, she should discuss reversible contraception options with her gynecologist.

Condoms

Condoms are a barrier form of birth control that physically blocks the sperm from entering the vagina. They are the only form of protection that can help to stop the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), like chlamydia, and prevent pregnancy.

Schedule Your Appointment with Associated Women’s Healthcare

For more information about your birth control options and pros/cons of each type, contact Associated Women’s Healthcare today! Our four female gynecologists are board-certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and will work with you to find the right birth control option for you. Give our Plano, TX office a call at (972) 612-8829. We look forward to hearing from you soon! We see patients from Plano, Garland, Frisco, Allen, Lewisville, Prosper, Murphy, Little Elm and the surrounding areas.