One of the conversations I most often have with patients and students alike is about family planning methods. I decided to compile a short & sweet list so that you can discuss with YOUR medical provider the choice that may be best for you.
Long-Acting Reversible Methods
Implanon: The Implanon is a small rod that is placed under the skin in the inner upper arm. This can be done in an office setting with local numbing medicine. Hormones are released slowly in the span of 3 years offering birth control coverage.
Intra-Uterine Devices [IUD]: IUD’s are popular because of longevity and ease of placement. They are a small, “T” shaped devices that are inserted at the cervix and release hormones over time. There are two options: “Copper IUD” or “Levonorgestrel IUD”.
- Copper IUD: Lasts up to 10 years.
- Levonorgestrel IUD: These are better known by their brand names: Mirena, Liletta, etc…They can last from 3-5 years depending on which brand you choose
Depo-Provera: Depo-Provera is a shot given every 3 months. I have heard providers mention that if you did not like the Implanon as a birth control method, you probably will not like this.
Short-Acting Methods
Nuvaring: This is a flexible, latex-free ring that is inserted vaginally and left in place for 21 days and removed for 7 days (this is when you have you period). The hormones are released over the 21 days. You get a new ring each month.
Pill/Mini-pill: When talking birth control, most people think of the “pill”. The pill is taken once daily. When your period should be occurring, you will take the placebo pills (meaning, they have no hormones). The difference between the pill and mini-pill are the hormones in them. The mini-pill is probably the option your OB will recommend if you want some coverage while breastfeeding.
Patch: This is a literally a patch that you place on your body. You change the patch once a week for 3 weeks, followed by one patch-free week.
Natural Methods
Natural Family Planning [NFP]: NFP is great way to monitor your ovulation cycles (ie: when you are fertile!). This requires careful planning, a calendar, a thermometer, and examining your cervical secretions. The theory is that, in 95% of menstrual cycles, ovulation happens four days before or after the “middle” of your cycle. For example: day 14 of a 28 day cycle; day 15 of your 30 day cycle. You can also use body temperature and cervical secretions to determine if you are ovulating.
Abstinence: The only 100% proof method (without surgery) of NOT becoming pregnant.
Surgical Methods
Tubal Ligation: AKA “tying your tubes”. It is deceptive to say “tying your tubes” because that is not exactly what happens. There are multiple ways a surgeon can do this procedure. Sometimes it is placing a device in the Fallopian tubes, sometimes it can be using electrosurgery. It is usually up to your surgeon.
Hysterectomy: By definition it is the surgical removal of the uterus. There are different methods to a hysterectomy, again surgeon preference. Unlike the tubal ligation, this is a permanent procedure, so it requires a lot consideration if you are looking at this option!
I hope these options can help you get the conversation started with your medical provider. They can help you tailor this information according to your medical history and needs.
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