Birth control pills
The Pill (oral contraceptives) is a daily pill designed to prevent pregnancy by releasing hormones that prevent an egg from being released each month and changing mucus levels in your cervix to block sperm from reaching it. Studies show it to be up to 99% effective at preventing pregnancy if taken exactly as prescribed; however, its efficacy against STDs cannot be guaranteed and it won’t work if missed pills or forgotten dosage aren’t adhered to.
Side effects of birth control pills may include spotting, breast tenderness, nausea, headaches or mood changes that tend to improve over time. Some types of pills even help clear acne by slowing overactive oil glands.
People with specific chronic health conditions or issues, like high blood pressure or a history of stroke or blood clots, may not be suitable candidates for birth control pills. Furthermore, they can interfere with certain antibiotics and anti-seizure drugs – in these instances it’s wise to speak to your physician about alternative birth control solutions if applicable.
IUDs
IUDs, long-acting reversible contraceptives, work by blocking sperm from reaching an egg. They’re over 99% effective and last years; additionally they reduce heavy menstrual bleeding (Mirena) and help with pelvic inflammatory disease. A copper IUD (ParaGard) can even serve as emergency contraception in case unprotected sexual encounter occurs within five days – all while still being safe for breastfeeding and easily removable or replaced as needed.
An IUD should take no more than 30 minutes to place, though some individuals may find the procedure uncomfortable or painful; asking for over-the-counter pain reliever can help ease discomfort during this procedure. When IUDs are placed, small amounts of progestin hormone are released; this may cause breast tenderness and mood changes as well as the possibility of perforating your uterus (2%-10%) which often occurs among older women and may lead to pelvic or abdominal pain, irregular bleeding, or abnormal vaginal discharge.
Minipill
Sometimes the Pill isn’t the right solution for women who have specific health concerns, such as breastfeeding or history of blood clots. Your physician may suggest switching to progestin-only pills known as minipills instead.
The minipill, which contains no estrogen, thickens cervical mucus and thins the uterus to block sperm from reaching eggs and fertilized eggs; additionally it suppresses ovulation and may decrease periods or cause lighter, less painful periods.
The minipill is 87% effective with “perfect use,” defined as taking it at the same time every day and using backup methods (like condoms) when engaged in sexual activity. Unfortunately, however, it doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted infections or stop ovulation completely; other estrogen-free birth control options include implants, Mirena IUDs, injections or visiting a clinic to discuss them further and learn more. You can speak with one of Twentyeight doctor or visit one of their clinics to gain further insight – they’ll ask about your medical history and current medications so they can help find out which method best fits you based on this information alone.
