Getting pregnant is a blessing to every woman. However, it can be difficult when one gets an unplanned pregnancy. Effective family planning helps prevent unwanted pregnancy. It is not easy to decide on the best method to control pregnancy, but Christopher K. Quinsey, MD, offers a solution for birth control in Lake Mary. Below is more information that you need to know about birth control before booking your appointment.
What is birth control?
Birth control prevents conception or pregnancy by using birth control devices, medications, sexual practices, or surgical procedures.
What types of birth control are available?
Once you visit, the gynecologist will have various methods to choose from, depending on your preference. The birth control methods include;
Natural methods
These methods do not require medication or devices. They include;
Abstinence – where one avoids sexual intercourse.
Withdrawal – This is where the man ejaculates outside the vagina.
Devices
These barriers prevent the sperm from swimming and reaching the egg for fertilization. Some contain chemicals that kill the sperm, while others bar the sperm. They include;
Male condom
A male condom prevents the sperm from entering the vagina during ejaculation. The condom also prevents other sexually transmitted infections.
Female condom
A female condom is placed on the vagina and works just like the male condom to create a barrier and prevent the sperm from reaching the egg. These condoms are as effective as the male condom though they are not common.
Injections
The injection is a hormone-related shot that is administered to the woman. It is long-term and reversible. The doctor administers it every three months to prevent the ovaries from releasing the egg. The woman must keep the dates to ensure it is effective
Pharmaceutical types
These types of birth control range from pills to insertions that the doctor places inside the woman to prevent pregnancy. They include;
The intrauterine device (IUD)
The IUD, also known as a coil, is a T-shaped device inserted into the uterus by the doctor to prevent the sperm from reaching the egg. It releases a toxin that destroys the sperm. They are of two types: copper IUD and hormonal IUD. They last between three and ten years, depending on what you prefer.
Contraceptive pill
These pills are orally taken daily and contain estrogen and progestin, which stop ovulation from taking place. They make the uterine wall thin and therefore prevent pregnancy from taking place.
Contraceptive patch
The patch is applied to the skin on the lower abdomen or buttock for three weeks and releases hormones which prevent fertilization. It is removed on the fourth week to allow menstruation to take place.
Vaginal ring
The ring prevents the sperm from swimming to the uterus by thickening the cervical walls. It releases progestin and estrogen that prevent ovulation from taking place. The woman inserts the three for three weeks and removes it on the fourth week to allow for a menstrual period.
The implant
An implant is a small rod placed on the underside of the woman’s arm and releases hormones slowly to prevent ovulation.
Permanent contraception
These are irreversible birth control methods, and they include:
- Tubal ligation
- Tubal implant
- Vasectomy
Choosing the right birth control method is not easy. But with help from a specialist, you can adopt the best method that suits your plan. Call the office or book an online appointment today to achieve good family planning.
