CHOOSING CONTRACEPTIVES: Birth Control Options & Getting Pregnant Again

Whether you've had a child (or six) or simply aren't ready for children, contraception is an essential key to your reproductive health.

From personal experience, I had doctors push for me to use certain methods without researching these methods for myself.  The end result was a terrifying four months (read about it here) until I could have my Para-guard IUD removed.

All this is to say, this post if for informational use but please conduct your own research before choosing and beginning use of any contraception method.

Some things to consider when choosing a contraceptive method should include:

• How effective is the method?Is it convenient?
  
• Do I have to remember to use it? If so, will I remember to use it?Do I have to use/take it every day?
  
• Is this method reversible? Can I get pregnant immediately after stopping it?
  
• Will this method cause me to bleed more or less?
  
• Will the bleeding I have while using the method be predictable or not predictable?
  
• Are there side effects or potential complications?
  
• Is this method affordable?
  
• Does this method protect against sexually transmitted diseases?
  

​Be sure to discuss these things with your partner, if you are in a committed relationship.

Here's a list of a few popular contraceptive methods:

• Intrauterine Devices (IUD)
  
• Implants
  
• Shot (inject-able birth control)
  
• Pills​
  
• Skin patches
  
• Vaginal Ring
  
• Barrier (condoms, diaphragm, etc.)
  
• Permanent (vasectomy, tube ligation)
  
• Plan B (emergency contraception to used when other contraception fails)
• Pulling Out
  

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Keep in mind, none of these methods protect you 100% from getting pregnant.  For more information on contraceptive methods, check out uptodate.com.