When should I see a doctor about birth control?
You should talk to your doctor about your sexual health as soon as you are or are thinking about becoming sexually active and anytime thereafter. With the information you provide, your doctor can discuss your STD and pregnancy risks and recommend the appropriate exams, screenings, and birth control options for you.
You may also see an OB/GYN about birth control if you have hormone-related concerns such as PMS, heavy periods, or acne. Birth control may help balance your hormones and restore your quality of life.
What types of contraception are available?
Today, the number of birth control options available makes it easier than ever to take control of your sexual health. Options range from hormonal to non-hormonal and over-the-counter to prescription.
Over-the-counter
You can buy male and female condoms, sponges, and spermicide at almost any drugstore, major retailer, or grocery store. You can also buy emergency contraception over-the-counter if your birth control method fails.
Behavioral
Some people use methods like withdrawal, fertility awareness, breastfeeding, and outercourse to help prevent pregnancy. While these are somewhat effective when used properly, abstinence is the only behavioral technique that 100% prevents pregnancy.
Prescription
Dr. Gigi Kroll and Dr. Zhanna Pinkus also offers a variety of prescription birth control methods. You can get prescriptions for the following:
- Birth control pills
- Injections (Depo-Provera)
- Intrauterine devices (IUD)
- Diaphragms
- Patch
- Vaginal ring
- Nexplanon implant
Many hormonal and non-hormonal versions also increase your range of options.
Surgery
Male vasectomy and female tubal ligation provide permanent birth control once you’re sure you don’t want to have any more children. The surgeries are 99% effective in most cases.
How do I find the right form of birth control for me?
Your OB/GYN can discuss which forms of birth control might be right for your situation based on your sexual behavior and preferences. The private practice setting allows for enough time to ask questions, and the providers handle these intimate subjects with understanding and compassion.
Before making a decision, you may want to consider the following factors:
- Level of protection against pregnancy
- STD risk factors
- Religious beliefs
- Your ability to remember your birth control of choice
- Heaviness of your periods
- Hormones vs non-hormonal birth control
- Insurance coverage and cost
Contact the Newport Beach practice over the phone or online to learn more about your birth control options.
