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5 Tips to Determine What Form of Contraception Is Right For You

May 02, 2023


5 Tips to Determine What Form of Contraception Is Right For You

As you know, contraceptives decrease your chances of becoming pregnant when you are not ready to start or expand your family. But not all contraceptives are equal. Each has its pros and cons. The key is finding the one that fits your lifestyle and needs. 

Sorting through all the options for contraception might seem a bit overwhelming, but OB/GYN Katherine Cornforth, MD, and our team at Cornforth Gynecology and Medspa can help. To that end, we offer the following five tips to help you choose the right contraceptive. 

Is it affordable and convenient?

You want to choose a contraceptive that works well with your lifestyle. If you don't want to remember to take medication regularly, you might consider an IUD, implant, or injection. Another option would be barrier contraceptives like condoms or spermicides. 

If cost is a consideration, you could end up paying anywhere from $0 for contraception covered by insurance to $1,000 or more for the vaginal ring. 

Do you want to have children at some point?

While most contraceptives greatly reduce the chances of having children, some are more permanent. If you only want to prevent pregnancy in the short term, birth control pills, condoms, and short-acting hormonal methods are best. 

If you may want children in the far future, long-acting methods like IUDs can be an excellent option. But sterilization options, like tubal ligation, are available if you never wish to become pregnant. 

Effectiveness of the contraceptive 

Contraceptives all have different levels of effectiveness, with some requiring little effort, like IUDs, and some requiring that you use them consistently. Methods like IUDs have the lowest chances of pregnancy, while other contraceptives can fail if you don’t use them properly or consistently. 

Be honest with yourself when choosing a contraceptive, and choose one that will be effective. 

Does it protect against STDs?

Male and female condoms are the only forms of birth control to protect against sexually transmitted diseases. Other forms don’t provide protection against STDs, so when having sex with a new partner or with a non-monogamous partner, always use a condom along with other forms of birth control. 

What are the side effects?

Some contraceptives, like birth control pills, have side effects, so consider the side effects of your chosen form of contraceptive. For example, the pill can cause headaches, weight gain, acne, and elevated blood pressure.

If you’re worried about side effects, short-term barrier methods like condoms might work best for you. 

To learn more about birth control or if you have any concerns, contact us today or use our online booking tool to schedule an appointment at our office in the Alamo Heights section of San Antonio, Texas. We’re here to help. We look forward to providing you with the care you need.