The Centers for Disease Control reports about 65% of women between ages 15-49 use contraception to prevent pregnancy. With so many options on the market, choosing one that works well with your goals and lifestyle can be overwhelming.
That’s where Jennifer Wright-Bennion, CNM, APRN, comes in. At Luxe Women’s Health in Queen Creek, Arizona, you can access comprehensive primary care, obstetrics, and gynecology services, including family planning and contraception consultations and support.
Our team put together this overview of several popular types of contraception to help you make a decision that meets your current needs:
Oral contraceptives, commonly called birth control pills, are a form of hormonal intervention that stops your ovaries from releasing an egg (ovulation) each month. By preventing ovulation, you can’t get pregnant.
An IUD is a small device shaped like the letter T that Jennifer inserts into your uterus. Some IUDs release hormones to prevent ovulation, and others use copper to make sure your uterus isn’t receptive to sperm. IUDs are a great option if you’re looking for a long-term solution because they’re effective for several years before needing replacement.
Made of latex or plastic, a male condom is a thin sheath that fits snugly over a penis to keep semen from entering your vagina. A female condom is a plastic pouch that you place inside your vagina for the same purpose—to keep sperm from entering.
A contraceptive patch is an adhesive patch you attach to the skin on your bottom, stomach, or upper arm). It slowly releases hormones into your system. You’ll wear the patch for three weeks, then remove it during the fourth week when you menstruate.
Via needle or syringe, the hormone progestin goes into your bloodstream and blocks conception.
A contraceptive implant is a tiny, flexible rod Jennifer places under the skin of your arm during a quick office procedure. The implant releases hormones gradually and can block pregnancy for about three years.
A small, circular ring that you insert into your vagina and wear for 3-4 weeks at a time. It releases estrogen and progestin for your body to absorb through your vaginal wall. The hormones block pregnancy.
With so many effective options available, choosing the right contraception for your lifestyle depends on your preferences, needs, and plans for pregnancy. Whether you're looking for a long-term solution or something for a few months, Jennifer is here to help guide you to the best choice.
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