Birth Control Specialist
A woman’s control over her own childbearing is fundamental to her reproductive health and rights. Women have a wide variety of choices when it comes to birth control. The experienced team at Reno Tahoe Women’s Health strives to inform and empower women to make the best decision about which method of contraception is right for their personal lifestyle and comfort. If you’re considering birth control or you’d like to discuss family planning with a compassionate expert, schedule a consultation at the clinic in Reno, Nevada. Call the office today or request an appointment online.
Birth Control Q & A
What are my options for birth control?
Birth control allows women and their partners to choose if and when they wish to become pregnant. Also known as contraception, birth control prevents a man’s sperm from fertilizing a woman’s ova, or egg, during sexual intercourse.
You have a variety of birth control methods to choose from when considering contraception. The right type of contraception for your personal needs depends on your lifestyle, health, and other individual factors, making birth control a very personal choice for every woman.
Which birth control methods are available?
Reno Tahoe Women’s Health offers a range of birth control options, including emergency contraception. Some of the most popular methods include:
IUDs
Intrauterine devices, or IUDs, are small, T-shaped devices that fit inside your uterus. IUDs either contain copper or hormones; both release substances that interfere with conception.
Your doctor places the IUD during a quick office procedure. IUDs are a longer-term, reversible option that can last between 3-10 years.
Birth control medications
Oral birth control pills contain progesterone and estrogen. These hormones naturally regulate ovulation; the higher doses in birth control pills prevent your body from releasing an egg each month. Oral birth control is reversible because your ovaries begin releasing eggs again shortly after you stop taking the medication.
There are several brands of oral birth control medications that contain different amounts of hormones. Your doctor can help you understand the pros and cons of each option.
Nexplanon implant
The Nexplanon implant is a hormonal birth control option that prevents pregnancy the same way as birth control pills do — by regulating ovulation. However, Nexplanon is a tiny, flexible implant that your doctor places under the skin of your arm with a simple office procedure.
The implant releases hormones directly into your bloodstream, eliminating the need to take daily birth control pills. The implant is just as effective as oral medication and lasts for up to three years.
Tubal ligation
Tubal ligation is a surgical procedure in which the fallopian tubes are cut and sealed. You still have menstrual periods after tubal ligation, but your eggs can’t travel from your ovaries into your uterus, where fertilization occurs.
Tubal ligation is a permanent birth control option. You can choose to have the procedure at any time, including post-childbirth or during a C-section.
To learn about all your options for contraception, schedule an appointment at Reno Tahoe Women’s Health. Call the office today or book online.