Some of the most important decisions a woman makes during her lifetime revolve around pregnancy and motherhood. Most women would prefer to decide when and if they become pregnant, not have the decision left to “fate” or unexpected circumstances. At CLEAR Immediate Care, we offer comprehensive woman’s wellness care, including birth control management, at our convenient medical clinic in Chicago, IL.
Birth control encompasses many different methods of managing when a woman becomes pregnant. The simplest form is abstinence, choosing not to have sexual interactions, especially intercourse until a woman decides to try to conceive. For those who are sexually active, birth control methods work to stop fertilization of the ovum (eggs), either by stopping sperm from entering the uterus and fallopian tubes or interrupting the fertilization process. There are many different types of birth control, each with pros and cons, that can be used for pregnancy management.
Types of Birth Control
A few different aspects should be considered when choosing a birth control method. First and foremost, it is essential for each woman to honestly assess what type of birth control will work best. Some methods require taking a pill every day or using a device that needs to be inserted before sexual activity – if you do not think you will adhere to these methods consistently, they will not be effective. Other methods only require treatment once every few months or maybe every few years, depending on the birth control. Some of the most commonly used birth control methods include:
- Oral contraceptives. Hormonal pills impact ovulation, stopping the ovum from leaving the ovaries while thickening the uterus lining to stop sperm.
- Hormonal short-acting treatments. Vaginal rings, patches and injections are short-acting hormonal methods used weekly, monthly or every few months.
- Hormonal long-term treatments. IUDs and implants release hormones for birth control, lasting for 3-10 years. These are long-term forms of birth control.
- Barrier methods. Condoms, vaginal sponges, diaphragms and cervical caps can be used to keep sperm from entering the uterus and fallopian tubes.
Short-term birth control may be better for those planning on becoming pregnant soon – the method can be discarded, and pregnancy may occur within a few months. Long-acting methods may be the best option for those not planning on pregnancy in the near future.
If you want to explore the many options in birth control management available to find what is right for you, come see us at CLEAR Immediate Care. Call our clinic in South Loop, Chicago, IL, to schedule your appointment with one of our birth control doctors.
