Just like the changing seasons of motherhood, our birth control seasons change too. Our timeline changes. Our needs change. Our bodies change. And with that, the kind of birth control that is best changes. So knowing what’s available is important.
We had the opportunity to sit down with Serena Adams, a Physician Assistant at Monarch Healthcare. She has been in women’s health for 13 years and is an expert when it comes to finding the right birth control for each individual woman. “It’s all about finding what works for each person – finding what compliments their body to make each woman feel their best and meet their needs.”
It’s all about finding what works for each person – finding what compliments their body to make each woman feel their best and meet their needs.
Let’s jump in. We’ve divided options into three categories: Regular Maintenance, Do It and Forget It, and Permanent. Use this as a guide and to get the basics on each of these options. Then, chat with your doctor or contact Monarch Healthcare to set up an appointment to find the best fit for you.
Which birth control is best for you?
Regular Maintenance
Options such as birth control pills and Nuva Ring require daily or weekly upkeep. These options are 99.5% effective when used with fidelity – anything less is caused by human error. Like any birth control that contains estrogen, your doctor should screen for history or family history of breast cancer or blood clots to find the best fit for you.
Pills ::
An OCP overrides the natural rollercoaster of hormones that drive our regular cycle. This process prevents ovulation and gives your ovaries a vacation. There are estrogen and progesterone options or progesterone only pills. Many women find their periods are lighter and experience less cramping while on the pill. Regular, predictable, and somewhat controllable periods are another added bonus. You’ll have a period during the placebo pills. It is okay to skip placebos occasionally to manipulate when you have your period (think, beach trip).
Things to remember :: To be fully effective, pills must be taken at the same time each day. If you are good about routines or set a phone alarm to help you remember this is a great option. But, if you forget them at home when you go on a trip – you’re gonna want to have some backup.
Nuva Ring ::
The ring is about the size of a hair tie and is inserted into the vagina and left in for 3 – 3.5 weeks. When you take it out, you have a period, then you put a new one in for another 3 – 3.5 weeks. The ring is filled at your pharmacy just like a prescription. Many women report lighter periods and less PMS symptoms.
Things to Remember :: While you only have something to remember 2 days a month, it’s still important to remove and insert on the right days for the ring to be fully effective.
Depo Injections ::
These shots are progesterone only. Shots are given every 3 months but must be done within a 7-day window to be fully effective. Shots can be given in your doctor’s office. Generally, women have irregular bleeding for the first 3 months and then no periods after the 2nd injection.
Things to Remember :: Depo Injections have the longest return to regular fertility at about 6 – 12 months.
Do It and Forget It
Implant birth control options also have a 99.5% effective rate but do not have the risk of human error like the regular maintenance options above. While these options can last years, if you decide to grow your family they can be removed at any time to return to your normal fertility.
Nexplanon ::
This is a plastic rod about the size of a bobby pin that is inserted in the inside of your upper arm. The rod is not visible but you can feel it under the skin. This is a quick in-office procedure. A small incision is made, the rod is inserted, and a small stitch to close it back up. You may have some bruising or tenderness for a couple of days but it is a simple procedure. Then, you are good for 3 years. Nexplanon is a low dose progesterone which makes it a good option for nursing mothers. Periods may be irregular for the first 6-9 months but usually go away after that.
IUD (intrauterine device) ::
IUDs are inserted into the uterus and stay for 3-10 years depending on the device. This is an in-office procedure. You may experience some pressure or discomfort during insertion but there is no recovery or downtime. There is, also, a copper, non-hormonal option that can last up to 10 years. Most women experience irregular bleeding for 4-6 weeks and no periods after that. The IUD can be taken out anytime to return normal fertility.
Permanent
When we are sure our families are complete it’s good to know there are some more invasive options for permanent birth control.
Tubal Ligation ::
This is a hospital out-patient laparoscopic surgery. You’ll want to plan for 2-3 days of discomfort and rest. The tubes from your ovaries to your uterus are cut, clipped, tied, or removed for permanent birth control.
Hysterectomy ::
Generally, a full hysterectomy is performed when medical issues occur beyond just wanting permanent birth control. This is a hospital outpatient surgery with 4 – 6 weeks till full recovery. You would discuss with your doctor the need for removal of uterus and ovaries or option to leave your ovaries.
Vasectomy ::
This is a chance for him to take one for the team. This is usually an in-office procedure, followed by a day or two of him wanting to lay on the couch. You’ll want to use back up protection until he is fully cleared and tested a few months later.
You’ve got options!
Take the time to ask your doctor about the ones that may be a good fit for you. It may take some trial and error to find the best fit for your body and lifestyle but being informed is the first step!
Happy family planning mamas!
Make an appointment to talk through what’s best for you!
