1Short-term contraception
2Long-term contraception
3Emergency contraception
Planning Your Family with Confidence
Contraception is the broad term that encompasses all birth control methods. Birth control is a crucial part of family planning and practicing safe sex. Some methods of birth control also guard against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), but this is not true of every method.
Because there are many different varieties of birth control, it’s important to discuss them with your physician or healthcare professional. You can then determine which type of contraception best suits your level of sexual activity and personal needs.
Major Categories of Contraception:
Types of Contraceptives
There are many types of contraceptives in each major category, including:
Hormonal birth control: As the name implies, hormonal contraceptives work by altering your body’s hormones in order to prevent ovulation or fertilization. Hormonal birth control is only available for women and may be administered as a pill, patch, implant, injection IUD, or vaginal ring.
Barrier contraceptives: Barrier contraceptives are available for both men and woman. They act as a literal barrier between sperm and uterus, preventing pregnancy from occurring. Types of barrier birth control include condoms, sponges, cervical caps, diaphragms, and more.
Intrauterine devices (IUDs): This type of birth control is inserted directly into the uterus. IUDs may be made from copper or levonorgestrel. IUDs are a very long-lasting form of birth control, but are also reversible.
Sterilization: Sterilization is a surgical birth control option. It is available for both men (vasectomy) and women (tubal ligation). Sterilization is considered to be the most permanent form of contraception, though it may also be reversed in very rare cases.
If you're wondering what form of birth control is right for you, schedule a discreet, informative contraception consultation to avoid confusion and gain peace of mind over family planning.