What Are My Contraception Options?

Feeling stuck trying to choose the right birth control method? You’re not alone! Choosing the right birth control can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. 

Our team of expert providers is here to guide you through all your contraception options available at Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates in Marietta, Georgia.

Whether you’re looking for a hormone-free method, want something long-term, or are considering permanent birth control, our team helps you make the best decision for your body and family.

Read on to learn all about your options.

Types of contraception

Contraception refers to any method used to prevent pregnancy. With so many available choices — natural, hormonal, barrier, long-term, or permanent — it’s important to find one that aligns with your lifestyle, future family planning plans, and underlying health needs.

Natural family planning

Natural family planning isn’t the old “calendar method.” It uses fertility technology and fertility indicators to identify the days you are most fertile. You then avoid sex (or using protection) during those times. 

It’s hormone-free and doesn’t require any procedures, so it can be a good fit for those who prefer natural options. 

Several methods fall under this category, including:

• Sympto-Thermal method, which combines tracking basal body temperature, cervical mucus, and other signs to pinpoint ovulation
• The Marquette method, which uses fertility monitoring technology alongside traditional charting methods
• The Creighton model, which focuses on observing and charting cervical mucus patterns
• The lactation amenorrhea method, which is for breastfeeding mothers

When used correctly and consistently, natural family planning methods can be up to 98% effective. However, real-world use tends to bring the effectiveness closer to 80%, depending on the method and how strictly it is followed. 

Tip: If you choose natural family planning, be sure to review all of the rules before relying on this method to prevent or space pregnancies.

Barrier methods

As the name suggests, barrier methods physically block sperm from reaching the egg. They’re simple to use and also protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Both condoms and diaphragms fall into this category.

Proper use is important when it comes to barrier methods. Condoms have a failure rate of up to 16% (84% success rate). Choosing the right size and putting it on correctly are two ways to reduce user error.

Hormonal methods

These include birth control pills, patches, and injections that prevent ovulation. They’re reliable, easy to manage, and can provide additional health benefits. 

Birth control pills are one of the most popular options in this category. An estimated 151 million women take oral hormonal birth control pills to both prevent unwanted pregnancy and experience better periods.

Intrauterine devices (IUDs)

IUDs are small, T-shaped devices placed inside your uterus. They can be hormonal or non-hormonal (copper) and offer years of protection with minimal maintenance. These can last 3-10 years, depending on the type you choose. 

It’s the ultimate set-it-and-forget type of birth control because there’s no daily maintenance required. 

Tip: If you’ve recently given birth or are planning to, it’s a good idea to talk about contraception before delivery. Some methods, like IUDs, can be placed immediately after childbirth.

Tubal ligation

This permanent option involves sealing or cutting the fallopian tubes to prevent pregnancy. It’s ideal for women who are certain they don’t want future pregnancies.

Permanent birth control isn’t limited to women. Men may also consider permanent birth control via vasectomy. If your partner chooses a vasectomy, you’ll need to continue to use birth control until your partner’s providers give the all clear.

When to combine methods

Not all contraception methods protect you from STDs. Only a condom can do that. For this reason, you may need to use multiple methods. For example, if you have an IUD to prevent pregnancy for the long term, you may still need a condom to protect yourself from STDs. 

Additional health benefits of birth control

While preventing pregnancy is the primary goal of contraception, certain methods — especially hormonal options — can offer other benefits, such as:

• Regulating your menstrual cycle
• Managing symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis
• Reducing acne
• Lowering your risk of certain reproductive cancers

Even if you aren’t currently sexually active, birth control may still be recommended to address other gynecological concerns, such as endometriosis pain.

Choosing the right method for you

Your contraception should work for you. Before choosing the right method, first ask yourself the following questions:

• Am I breastfeeding? (Not all types are suitable for nursing moms.)
• How soon do I want to grow my family?
• Is my family complete?

Our team is here to help you explore all your options, answer your questions, and create a plan that meets your personal needs.

To get started, give us a call at 770-422-8505 or click here to schedule an appointment.