Choosing The Best Birth Control Option For You. Blog Post 02

I believe that if you are reading this blog entry, it is safe to say that you are either interested in knowing more about your birth control options. Or you are currently using a birth control method and would like to learn more about it. Either way, you are in luck! Grab some tea, popcorn, or whatever your favorite snack is (I’ll grab some kettle corn ) and get ready to be informed!

There is so much to be discussed about birth control, that I decided to break the discussion into two separate blog entries. In part one, we will discuss how to choose what method is best for you and in part 2 we will address side-effects, myths and facts, and frequently asked questions about birth control.

As you read remember that this is not a replacement for the conversation that you will have with your provider. Choosing a birth control method also requires a detailed medical history review. So, remember to use this entry as a guide to help you decide, but ultimately discuss your option with your provider.

 For those who are seeking contraception, choosing a method can be one of the most difficult decisions to make. I find that most women are often indecisive because there are so many methods to choose from and they have a tough time selecting which one best suits them. To make your decision process easier, I have listed a few things to consider.

1.     Do you have any health problems? Are you a smoker and age 35 or older?

As mentioned previously knowing your health history is very important. Having certain medical conditions and smoking (over the age of 35) may limit your options.

2.     What is your reason for seeking birth control?

Most women seek birth control to prevent an unintended pregnancy. However, most birth control methods are multipurpose and have noncontraceptive benefits. The following are other purposes for birth control use:

Regulating menstrual cycles

Minimizing cramping and bleeding during periods

Controlling menstrual disorders (PMS, endometriosis, adenomyosis, PCOS, ext.)

Clearing/preventing hormonal acne

Prevention of ovarian cyst

Prevention of cyst formation in the breast

Helpful with peri-menopausal symptoms

Prevention of ovarian and endometrial cancer

Some birth control methods provide these benefits better than others. Therefore, knowing exactly what you are expecting your method to do for you may help you narrow down your options.

3.     Do you desire to have children and when?

In other words, how long do you want your method to work for you? This is an important question to consider. Some birth control options are permanent or can be long acting for a certain number of years at a time (and are reversible). One birth control method (Depo Provera) must be discontinued 6-12 months prior to family planning.

4.     Would you desire a method that is hormonal or non-hormonal?

Both hormonal and non-hormonal birth control options exist. Some women would desire a non-hormonal birth control method because of their medical history, to avoid hormone use altogether, or to prevent side effects that may be experienced with hormonal contraceptives. However, to experience some of the non-contraceptive benefits of birth control use, hormonal birth control should be considered.

5.     Would you be able to incorporate your chosen method into your current lifestyle and finances?

This is very important because choosing a birth control method that does not fit into your personal lifestyle will probably be difficult for you to use correctly and consistently. For example, a woman who cares for her family and has a stressful job may not remember to take a pill every day at the same time. In addition, a woman who does not have transportation may not be able to see her provider every 3 months for Depo-Provera injections. The best method is one that can be used effectively and consistently. The cost of your chosen method and your current financial status is important to take into consideration as well. Birth control options range in price and in coverage by insurance companies. Would you be able to consistently pay monthly for a birth control method? Or would paying a one-time fee for a 10-year IUD be more cost effective?

 There may be many other things to consider when deciding what method is best for you. I just listed the top 5 pearls to think about before making your decision. Involving your partner or spouse may also be a good idea. This will allow you to take into consideration the feelings and attitudes that they may have about each method and may also allow you to receive helpful feedback. Statistics have shown that couples who are happy with their birth control are more likely to use it more effectively than those who are not.

I hope that the information provided was helpful