Contraception

The ability to control when you get pregnant is a vital component of your overall health. We offer a full range of options to prevent pregnancy, tailored to your needs and preferences. However, the wealth of contraception alternatives can be confusing. If you are considering contraception, or need to change your current method, we recommend taking this online quiz to learn more about your options prior to your appointment.

Family Planning and Birth Control Options

If you’re unsure about whether you want to start a family, or you’ve already had children and know you’re finished adding to your family, there are lots of options available that allow you to remain sexually active while also alleviating the surprise of unplanned pregnancy. It’s important to research the various options for contraception and sterilization to find a solution that fits you and your lifestyle the best. Your doctor can help you select the best method for your family planning needs.

Contraception and Sterilization: Permanent Versus Non-Permanent Methods

Non-permanent methods of birth control offer a lot of options that vary in effectivity, frequency and hormonal versus non-hormonal methods. With these, you can select a combination of methods that work best for you. Some of these include:

Birth control pills – One of the most common, and often cost-effective, forms of birth control. Pills are taken daily and regulate cycles to 28 days.
Barrier methods – Barrier methods include male and female condoms, diaphragm, cervical cap and contraceptive sponge.
Natural methods – Tracking menstrual cycles, basal body temperature and cervical mucus
Intrauterine devices (IUDs) – Examples include the copper IUD (ParaGard) and the hormonal IUD (Mirena).
Additional options – Examples include the vaginal ring (NuvaRing), contraceptive implant (Nexplanon), contraceptive injection (Depo-Provera) and contraceptive patch (Ortho Evra).

If you’re looking for a more permanent solution for birth control, (also referred to as sterilization), options include:

Tubal ligation – Often referred to as “having the tubes tied,” tubal ligation is a surgical procedure in which the fallopian tubes are cut or blocked to prevent pregnancy.
Vasectomy – A surgical procedure for men in which a doctor cuts and seals off the two tubes that allow sperm to travel outside the body.

These options aren’t inclusive, and there are other options available, as shown below. At Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, our goal is to offer our patients comprehensive care that promotes lifelong health and well-being. Schedule an appointment to talk to one of our physicians and we can determine what birth control options are safest and most beneficial for you and your needs.