With so many contraceptive options available, you may be unsure of which one is right for you. When you visit HER Wellness Center, the doctor will take the time to get to know you  and help you find an option that is appropriate for your given your health history, lifestyle, and future plans.  Some of the questions our doctor may ask  to help with the decision making are:

  • WHAT IS YOUR SCHEDULE LIKE?
  • DO YOU LIKE TO STICK TO A ROUTINE?
  • DO YOU CONSIDER YOURSELF FORGETFUL?
  • WOULD YOU LIKE TO LIMIT YOUR PERIODS TO ONE TO FOUR TIMES A YEAR?
  • HOW SOON DO YOU WANT CHILDREN?
  • DO YOU SMOKE?
  • DO YOU HAVE HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE?

Answers to these questions will help the doctor to determine which option makes the most sense for you.  Speaking of options, there are quite a few available today!  Although this list is not inclusive, we wanted to give you an idea of what’s available on the market today:

The Combined Pill

The combined pill is a daily pill that contains estrogen and progestin. It works by preventing your ovaries from releasing an egg and thickens the cervical mucus in order to keep the sperm from joining the egg. It’s a dependable, non-permanent form of birth control.

The Shot

The Depo-Provera shot is an injectable birth control method that contains progestin and works by preventing ovulation, thickening the cervical mucus, and altering the uterine lining. The shot is ideal for women who do not wish to get pregnant anytime soon and cannot take estrogen.

The Patch

The patch is a thin, beige plastic patch that can be placed on your stomach, buttocks, or arm once a week for three weeks. It releases progestin and estrogen which prevent ovulation and thicken the cervical mucus. The patch is a good option for busy women who may forget to take the pill every day.

 The Ring

Inserted into the vagina once a month, the ring releases progestin and estrogen to prevent ovulation, thickens the cervical mucus, and thins the uterine lining. It is often recommended to women who do not smoke or have high blood pressure.

IUDs

IUDs are plastic devices that appear to be shaped like the letter “T”.  They are inserted into the uterus by a gynecologist. There are many types of IUDs that work by preventing sperm from reaching the egg and thinning the uterine lining. They are ideal for mothers who do not plan to have children in the near future.