4 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Birth Control Method

Never before have women had so many excellent options when it comes to contraceptives. In fact, there are so many birth control options to choose from that finding the right approach isn’t always straightforward. 

At Philadelphia Women’s Health & Wellness, we view our role as your partner in all aspects of women’s health. We’re honored to help you find the birth control method that aligns best with your needs, goals, and lifestyle. 

Here are four things to consider when exploring birth control methods.

Are you in a mutually monogamous relationship?

For women who are not in a mutually monogamous relationship in which both partners have been tested for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), protecting against infection is an important consideration. 

Currently, the only forms of birth control that also offer a measure of protection against STDs are external (male) and internal (female) condoms. Condoms also provide the ability to protect against both STDs and pregnancy without altering your hormonal balance. 

You don’t need to worry about taking a pill each day or scheduling office visits to get the protection you need. Simply make sure you’re prepared with the style of condoms you prefer, and you’re good to go!  

Are you good at maintaining routines?

If you’re the type of person who builds and maintains routines in your work or home life, then birth control pills might be an excellent birth control option. There is a wide range of different types of pills to choose from, and a fit for virtually every set of needs. 

Birth control pills should be taken around the same time each day, so they’re great for women who like to adhere to daily schedules and routines. If you prefer to have your period each month, birth control pills are designed with a pause to allow for menstruation (although most women find that the pills lighten their flow). You also have the option of skipping the break week, which eliminates monthly bleeding for many women. 

Would you prefer an option you don’t have to think about?

If you’re already running at full speed, adding one more thing to worry about might not be your preference. There are a few birth control options that deliver protection that lasts for years, without the need to stick to a schedule or come in for frequent office visits. 

The birth control implant is a thin, flexible rod inserted just beneath the skin on your upper arm. It slowly releases a stream of hormones that reduce ovulation and thicken your cervical mucus to prevent pregnancy. The implant can provide three years of protection with just one office visit (plus one more to remove the implant). 

An intrauterine device (IUD) is also a great long-term birth control method. Hormonal IUDs work much like the implant. There is also a copper-based IUD option that works by triggering a natural inflammatory reaction within your uterus, making it very difficult for sperm to survive. 

You might also consider the birth control injection, which delivers several months of protection. This approach involves more frequent office visits than an IUD or implant, but the visits typically last just a few moments. 

Are you confident that your family is complete?

If you’re sure that you don’t want to add any more children to your family, you might be interested in permanently eliminating the possibility of pregnancy. Permanent sterilization is a permanent birth control option, and it works by severing or removing your fallopian tubes. 

This approach prevents pregnancy by creating a separation between sperm and eggs.  It’s essential to really think through your family planning before moving forward with tubal ligation. 

For women who are excited to put a definitive end to their reproductive life, there are numerous benefits. You can enjoy intimacy without worrying about birth control, and there is no need to alter your hormonal balance. 

Have more questions? We’re here to help

If you’re ready to explore your birth control options in greater detail, take a few moments to book your visit at Philadelphia Women’s Health & Wellness. You’ll sit down with one of our specialists to discuss your unique set of needs and how various options might work for you. 

In most cases, you can get started on your preferred method right away. Contact us at your earliest convenience to book your visit.