The most important decision you will ever make in your lifetime is whether or not to have children. The decision of how many children and when to have them can be challenging, but it doesn’t need to be overwhelming. There are options for families in Trinity, Florida that want more children and those that want fewer; there’s also a lot of information about what type of contraception may work best for you and your partner. Look for the best center, Women’s Care in Trinity, FL, as they will walk with you on the family planning journey.
Barrier Methods
This type of contraception prevents sperm from entering the uterus. This method includes condoms, spermicides, diaphragms, and cervical caps.
Condoms
A condom is a thin covering that fits over an erect penis. It’s made from latex rubber or polyurethane and contains a lubricant and a spermicide to kill sperm. Condoms are the only contraception protecting against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Even if a woman is on oral contraceptives, condoms protect her from unintended pregnancy and STDs.
Cervical Caps
A cervical cap is a small cup made from latex or silicone that fits over the cervix. Like condoms, it contains a spermicidal agent to kill sperm. When used with a diaphragm, it can be an effective reversible method of contraception.
Diaphragms
A diaphragm is a dome-shaped rubber cup with a flexible rim that fits over the cervix and holds spermicide against the walls of the vagina. A diaphragm must be fitted by a doctor or nurse and used with spermicidal jellies or creams.
Hormonal Birth Control Methods
Hormonal birth control is contraception that uses hormones from synthetic progestin levonorgestrel or natural progesterone to prevent ovulation and pregnancy. It can also thicken cervical mucus in some cases, which makes it difficult for sperm to enter the uterus. This combination of actions leads to very effective contraception. Hormonal methods include:
Birth Control Pills
Better known as “the pill,” oral contraceptives contain estrogen and progestin or progesterone to prevent ovulation and pregnancy. If taken correctly, oral contraceptives are 99 percent effective in preventing pregnancy. However, if you miss a dose of your birth control pills, you may increase your chances of becoming pregnant.
Hormonal Injections
Hormonal injections are given once every two to three months. The injection contains progestin and estrogen hormones, which stop ovulation and thins cervical mucus.
External Skin Patch
This skin patch also contains the hormones progestin and estrogen. It’s placed on your shoulder, buttocks, or torso. You change the patch weekly for three weeks, then stop for week four when you get your period. The combination of hormones prevents ovulation and pregnancy in most cases, but it may be less effective if you’re overweight.
Hormonal Implant Devices
Implant devices, such as Nexplanon and Implanon, contain small rods that release the hormone progestin into your body. These implants prevent pregnancy for up to three years and must be surgically removed when you no longer want to avoid pregnancy. Also, insertable birth control systems, such as Mirena and Skyla, release levonorgestrel hormone into your uterus to prevent pregnancy. These systems also last for years, but you don’t need a doctor’s surgery to remove them, unlike implant devices.
There are many different types of contraception available, each with its uniqueness. It’s essential to find the method that fits your lifestyle and needs. Remember that condoms offer protection against STDs in addition to pregnancy. Consult your contraception specialist if you have any questions about which type of contraception is right for you.
