Birth Control

What kinds of birth control are there?

Women have a number of birth control options to choose from, including:

• pills
• implants
• injections
• intrauterine devices (IUDs)
• diaphragms
• sponges
• surgery

These birth control options vary in terms of effectiveness and, for some women, certain options aren’t suitable due to underlying health conditions. Based on your medical history and goals, Dr. Tchabo can help you decide what’s best for you.

How should patients choose birth control?

There are many factors behind the decision to use birth control that will dictate which method is best for the situation. For example, if the birth control is a temporary measure, and the patient hopes to simply delay conception, a minimally invasive, “barrier” option would be the direction to go in. For more complicated issues, such as pre-existing medical conditions, more permanent options need to be considered and weighed carefully. Also, certain birth control methods have side effects that can influence which direction to go in. A conversation with Dr. Tchabo will help you narrow down the options to find a solution that is best suits your needs.

Do all birth control options provide protection from sexually transmitted diseases (STD)?

In a word, no. In fact, condoms are the only type of birth control that offers this kind of protection. Women who are at risk of STDs, such as those with multiple partners, should always use a condom and consider using another form of birth control for even better protection from unplanned pregnancies.

Which birth control method is the most effective?

Quite simply, each method has a degree of effectiveness, which you can discuss with the doctor. And the degree of effectiveness is limited to the proper usage of each method. Outside of permanent removal of the reproductive organs, no single method is considered 100% effective.

Are there risks associated with birth control?

Certain types of birth control options do come with potential risks. For example, birth control pills that contain estrogen might cause a higher risk of blood clots for some patients. IUDs are generally considered safe, although infections and other problems can occur. Dr. Tchabo will discuss potential risks with patients to ensure that they are well informed before choosing any birth control.