If you're not looking to have children any time soon, but plan to be sexually active, you may be looking into birth control options. These days, there are many choices available. While they may not all be a good fit for you, it's a good idea to get more education on the various options so that you can make a more informed decision and find a good fit for your needs and goals. Keep reading to learn more about how to choose the right birth control method for you:
Consider Your Goals
The first step is to think about the goals you have in mind for birth control. Are you looking for something with few side effects? Do you want to utilize birth control that you don't even have to think about daily? Are you looking for the least painful solution? Figure out what's most important to you and talk to your doctor about your goals.
Look Into Time-Length
If you're planning to utilize birth control other than birth control pills or condoms, you'll want to consider the time length that's in place. For example, some IUDs are only effective for 3 to 5 years before they need to be removed and replaced. A birth control implant that is placed in your arm may only be effective for 4 years before it needs to be replaced. Make sure that you understand the time-length so that you're making a choice that fits in with your needs and lifestyle.
Consider Hormonal and Non-Hormonal Options
For some women, added hormones can mess with their bodies. If you're unsure what type of birth control to choose, consider both hormonal and non-hormonal options and talk to your doctor about the pros and cons of each. There are also hormonal birth control options with low doses of hormones that have lessened side effects.
Talk to Your Partner
If you're in a relationship and are planning to use birth control, you should talk to each other. It's not only your responsibility to utilize birth control. If you're not feeling comfortable with hormonal birth control, for example, it may be a good idea to rely on condoms.
While it may take time to find the right birth control for you, it's possible to protect yourself from getting pregnant and remain sexually active. Your gynecologist or doctor can help you learn more about your options and they can also give their professional recommendation based on your situation and needs.
For more information on birth control, contact companies like Western Branch Center for Women.