Explore your options for birth control with your Chicago gynecologist
Many women use birth control for several decades. Due to the duration of this practice, a woman needs to have choices in how she prevents pregnancy throughout the various stages of her life. The gynecological team at Northwestern Women’s Health Associates helps our patients navigate the various options for birth control, offering specific information related to efficacy and convenience that will help a woman make the right choice for her.
Most often, women consider two main choices in birth control: oral contraceptives or condoms. In fact, various other options may increase a woman’s preventive practices while affording convenience and quality of life. Some of the birth control methods that may be considered include:
- Diaphragm. This dome-shaped silicone cup covers the cervix, keeping sperm from reaching eggs. A diaphragm should be used in conjunction with a spermicide solution.
- IUD (intrauterine device). This method of birth control requires the professional placement of the T-shaped device. An IUD may contain copper (Paragard) or hormones (Mirena). Each is effective for several years, with the copper Paragard lasting a decade.
- Hormonal birth control. Injections may be received in our office every three months.
- Vaginal ring. This is a convenient hormonal birth control option for the woman who does not want to have to think about her birth control every day. The ring is inserted monthly, where it releases hormones for a 21-day period. After this time, the ring is removed for 7 days, allowing menstruation to occur naturally.
Of course, oral contraceptives and condoms continue to provide excellent protection from pregnancy and are popular choices for many women. Condoms are the only form of birth control that also provides protection against sexually transmitted diseases.
Birth control is a very personal choice for every woman. Your Northwestern gynecologist can provide you with the data you need to determine which type of birth control best fits your needs and lifestyle. Call Northwestern Women’s Health Associates at 1-312-440-9400 for your one on one consultation.
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