Submitted by Brittany King, APN, WHNP, Advanced Women’s Healthcare
Contraception methods, also known as birth control, are designed to not only prevent pregnancy, but they may also be prescribed to address a variety of medical conditions such as to control heavy bleeding, lessen symptoms of endometriosis, and alleviate symptoms of PMS by balancing hormonal levels. The intended use will vary from person to person, based upon each person’s individual situation.
Questions to Consider
Speak with a gynecologist or advanced practice nurse so they may help you evaluate your needs and identify available options so you can make the best decision possible. Prior to speaking with your health care provider, ask yourself these questions:
- How fail-proof do you need your protection plan to be?
- How much does the cost matter?
- How important is your privacy?
- Do you have a regular partner whose needs you care about?
- Do you need to protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?
- How much effort are you willing to make to prevent a pregnancy?
- Does it matter if your period is affected?
- Will you want to have a child or more children?
Overview of Common Methods
There are several general methods of birth control, including, but not limited to:
- Barrier methods: Condoms, the diaphragm, and the cervical cap are designed to prevent the sperm from entering the uterus. It is important to remember that even though all these methods can prevent pregnancy, condoms are the only method that can protect against sexually transmitted diseases or HIV.
- Intrauterine device (IUD): A small device that is inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider. The IUD is more than 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy. An IUD can stay in the uterus for up to 10 years until a healthcare provider removes it.
- Hormonal birth control: Birth control pills, injections, skin patches, vaginal rings, and implants each release hormones into a woman’s body that interfere with fertility by preventing ovulation.
- Sterilization: A method that permanently prevents a woman from getting pregnant or a man from being able to get a woman pregnant. Sterilization involves surgical procedures that must be performed by a healthcare provider and usually cannot be reversed.
Which One Is Right for You?
No single birth control is the “best” option—they all come with pros and cons. The majority of options all result in about the same level of effectiveness. Therefore, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine which is best for you, whether you are considering changing your current birth control or wanting to start for the first time.
You don’t have to wait for a scheduled annual visit with your gynecologist for the discussion. Consider scheduling an appointment with an advanced practice nurse (APN), who may be more accessible than the primary gynecologist. An APN holds a high degree of knowledge, skill, and experience that is applied within the nurse-patient/client relationship to achieve optimal care.
Brittany King is an advanced practice nurse specializing in women’s health. She works alongside Dele Ogunleye, MD, to provide a full range of obstetric and gynecologic services. You may contact Brittany or Dr. Ogunleye at Advanced Women’s Healthcare at 309-808-3068 or www.awhcare.com. The office is located at 2111 East Oakland Avenue (Next to the Jewel-Osco Plaza).