Today's birth control comes in many forms, from pills to patches to barrier methods. Some forms of birth control have to be used correctly every time you engage in sexual activity, like a condom, while others, like a hormonal birth control ring, last for up to a month. Most barrier methods of birth control also protect you from sexually transmitted infections (STIs), while many medical methods don't. So how do you know which form of birth control to choose?
Daniel S. Kushner, MD suggests that you look at your lifestyle for the answer. The right birth control for you will fit well with your lifestyle. You'll be able to use the right form of birth control with consistency so that you'll get the best possible results.
Dr. Kushner advises patients in the Queens, New York area on how to choose the right form of birth control for their unique health care needs. Here are some of the factors he suggests you consider when choosing the right form of birth control for your lifestyle.
If you need birth control that protects you right away, look to barrier methods like condoms and dams. Hormonal birth control medications take several weeks to become effective.
An intrauterine device (IUD) becomes effective right away, but implantation has to be scheduled, and you may need some recovery time after the procedure. If you're planning on monitoring your fertility, you'll need some time to establish a baseline before natural family planning (NFP) becomes fully effective for you.
Hormonal birth control for use by women comes in several types of packaging. The pill, the patch, the ring, Depo Provera shots, and some forms of IUDs contain hormones that work to prevent pregnancy.
For some women, hormones are a benefit – they can help with irregular or painful periods, and may be prescribed as part of non-contraceptive health care. For others, hormones may create physical or mental health issues.
Only a male condom protects you from STIs. No birth control medication or injection protects against STIs. If your lifestyle includes sex with sequential partners, protect yourself against STIs as well as pregnancy.
Different forms of birth control take different amounts of your attention to use consistently and correctly. Based on how often you want to think about birth control, you might want to choose:
If you're looking for more permanent solutions, Dr. Kushner also offers Essure female tubal ligation and male vasectomy, surgical options resulting in sterilization.
To discuss your birth control plans with Dr. Kushner, contact our White Plains or Kew Gardens, New York offices, or our new office in Queens, today. Our experienced care team can provide you with the guidance you need to choose the birth control option that will best fit your lifestyle, health care needs, and personal goals. Schedule your initial consultation appointment now, either over the phone, or with the online booking tool.
