Birth Control Q & A 

What are the different types of birth control?

In general, birth control methods can be divided into three categories:

Barrier

Barrier birth control is any method that prevents sperm from reaching and fertilizing your eggs. These methods include:

• Condoms (male and female)
• Diaphragms
• Cervical caps
• Sponges
• Spermicide
• Intrauterine device (IUD)

Some IUDs also use hormones to prevent pregnancy.

Hormonal

Any birth control that alters your hormones to regulate your ovulation is grouped under this category. While the process is the same across all hormonal birth control methods, the delivery of this birth control method varies considerably and includes:

• Oral contraception (pills)
• Patches
• Injections
• IUD
• Implants
• Vaginal rings

Non-hormonal IUDs are also available.

Natural

Any birth control method that doesn’t rely on outside intervention is considered a natural method. This includes fertility awareness planning, withdrawal, outercourse, and abstinence.

In addition to these three types of birth control, there are also surgical solutions, including tubal ligation and a vasectomy.

What are the efficacy rates for birth control?

The only birth control methods that provide 100% efficacy are abstinence, outercourse, or a hysterectomy (although a hysterectomy shouldn’t be considered a birth control option). Even so, today’s birth control options are incredibly effective. Here are just a few examples of their protection rates:

• Implant, 99%
• Condom, 85%
• Injections, 94%
• Diaphragm, 88%
• IUD, 99%
• Withdrawal, 78%

A birth control method is only as effective as your use of it. For example, if you use a diaphragm without spermicide, you can drive the protection rate down. And if you skip a birth control pill or two, you also lower its efficacy.

How do I know which birth control option is right for me?

When it comes to birth control, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Drs. Ahadi and Pakideh take the time to sit down with you to review your lifestyle and your goals in order to help you pick the best option.

If you prefer not to regulate your hormones, for example, they find a more suitable barrier or surgical solution. If you’re worried about forgetting your birth control, the doctors offer long-term methods that require very little planning or accommodation.

The bottom line is that every patient is unique, and the doctors at Monroe OBGYN take the time to find the perfect solution for your particular needs.

To explore your birth control options further, call Monroe OBGYN or request an appointment using the online scheduling tool.