Birth Control

Birth control is safer and more effective now than ever before, but with such a diverse selection of methods to choose from, making the right decision can be difficult. The experienced OB/GYNs at Urgyn in Atlanta, Georgia, specialize in helping women find the most suitable method of contraception for their needs. Take control of your fertility by calling Urgyn or requesting an appointment online today. 

Why is birth control important?

Being pregnant and having a baby are life-changing events, which at the right time in a woman’s life are happy, fulfilling experiences.

However, becoming pregnant when you’re not ready to be a mom or if you’re at risk because of a pre-existing medical condition can be stressful and may harm your health.

Birth control significantly reduces your likelihood of becoming pregnant, giving you a choice over when you start a family. You can enjoy the benefits of a sexual relationship without worrying about life-changing consequences.

What is hormonal birth control?

Hormonal birth control uses the female hormones progesterone and estrogen. In the correct quantities, these hormones stop your ovaries from releasing eggs, so there’s nothing for sperm to fertilize. Hormonal birth control methods include:

• Oral birth control pills
• Patches
• Vaginal rings
• Hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs)
• Implants
• Long-acting injections

Hormonal birth control can be almost 100% effective if used correctly. However, allowing for the variances of typical use, it works around 90% of the time. Implants can be 99% effective as they don’t rely on you remembering to take your pill every day.

What are the alternatives to hormonal birth control?

If you don’t want to use hormonal birth control or your Urgyn OB/GYN advises against it (for example, if you’re at risk of developing blood clots), there are several barrier methods to choose from:

• Male and female condoms
• The sponge
• Diaphragm
• Cervical cap
• Copper IUDs

Sponges, diaphragms, and caps are more effective when used with a spermicide that kills sperm on contact. Barrier methods of birth control can be highly effective; for example, a copper IUD lasts up to 10 years and has a 99% success rate.

One significant advantage of condoms is that they protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), a benefit no other methods provide. Therefore, it’s sensible to use condoms even if you’re also using another form of contraception unless you’re in a committed monogamous relationship.

For a more permanent solution to unwanted pregnancy, you could undergo tubal ligation. This minimally invasive procedure blocks the fallopian tubes so eggs can’t reach the uterus. Alternatively, your male partner could undergo a vasectomy to stop sperm from leaving the testicles.

If you'd like help considering your birth control choices, talk to one of the OB/GYNs at Urgyn. Call now or request an appointment using the online booking feature.