Birth Control Options & Contraception Counselling in Wellesley, MA
Get to Know Your Birth Control Options
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 healthcare provider. The board-certified OBGYNs at About Women by Women will take the time to fully assess your birth control needs and discuss the options that are best suited to your needs. Call (781) 263-0033 to schedule an appointment at our office in Wellesley, MA.
Birth Control Pills
Birth control pills, commonly referred to as the pill, are a form of oral contraception that generally contains two hormones, estrogen and progestin and taken daily to prevent a woman’s ovaries from releasing eggs. They also help to prevent pregnancy by causing the cervical mucus to thicken. This blocks sperm from fertilizing an egg. Birth Control pills are safe, effective and convenient. For women who are very overweight, the pill may be less effective. Additionally, vomiting and/or diarrhea may keep the pill from working properly to prevent pregnancy. If a woman is concerned about this, a backup method of birth control should be used.
Ortho Evra® Patch
Used correctly, the Evra® patch is as effective as birth control pills in preventing pregnancy. The Evra® 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 (estrogen and progestin) are similar to those used in birth control pills but are absorbed transdermally through the skin. The patch works by suppressing the pituitary gland which in turn prevents the ovaries from releasing eggs. It also thickens cervical mucus making it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg. Since the patch contains a dosage which is 60% higher than that delivered by the pills, there is the risk of side effects such as blood clots. Because of this it is essential that patients using the patch not smoke. It can also be used to treat irregular periods, menstrual cramps, or endometriosis.
NuvaRing®
NuvaRing® is a soft and flexible ring that is worn in the vagina. The key benefit of the NuvaRing is that a patient does not need to take it daily to get a complete months protection. In a given 1-month period, NuvaRing® must be inserted into the vagina, removed after 3 weeks, and a new ring inserted no more than 7 days later. While the hormones it contains (estrogen and progestin) are similar to those used in birth control pills, unlike birth control pills, they are absorbed directly into the blood stream through the vaginal wall, delivering a consistent level of medication improving effectiveness and limiting side effects. Oral contraceptives on the other hand, differ in that they take time to be absorbed into the blood stream causing peaks and valleys in the hormone blood levels.
Diaphragm
A diaphragm is a thin rubber dome shaped device with a springy and flexible rim. Inserted into the vagina by the patient, it fits over the cervix and is held in place by muscles in the vagina. The diaphragm is designed to hold a spermicide in place over the cervix to kill sperm. To maximize the effectiveness of the diaphragm it should be left in place for up to 6 to 8 hours. The effectiveness for birth control ranges from between 86-94%. If one chooses to use a diaphragm it must be fitted in a clinic. Additionally, weight changes, vaginal surgery and pregnancy can affect the way a diaphragm fits requiring that a medical provider check it to make sure it fits properly and to determine if a new size is needed.
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 HIV and prevent pregnancy. A condom is a latex or polyurethane sheath that is closed at one end and fits over a man’s penis. Condoms are also available for females. These have a flexible ring at either end. One end is closed and inserted into the vagina and the other end is open with the ring remaining outside the vagina. To help assure protection, users should read and follow the manufactures instructions.
Schedule an Contraception Consultation in the Greater Boston Area
When it comes to birth control, you have options. Our highly-trained OBGYNs will take the time to thoroughly discuss your birth control needs in order to determine the option that is right for you. Call (781) 263-0033 to schedule an appointment with a gynecologist near Boston today!