When it comes to planning when and how to become a parent, birth control is an invaluable tool. At his practice in Houston, Texas, Hany H Ahmed, MD, can help you navigate the full range of birth control solutions.
Many women narrow their options to birth control pills or an intrauterine device (IUD). Both are excellent choices, but there are key differences. If you’re thinking about which path best fits your goals and lifestyle, here’s some information to help you choose.
An IUD is a small device that Dr. Ahmed positions inside your uterus during a simple in-office procedure.
Types of IUDs include one made of copper that prevents pregnancy by triggering a mild inflammatory reaction toxic to eggs and sperm. If you’re sensitive to hormone-based birth control, that’s a great option.
Some IUDs release small volumes of hormones that prompt your body to thicken your cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach your eggs. These hormones also thin your uterine lining, reducing the chance of a fertilized egg successfully implanting.
The procedure to place an IUD doesn’t take long. Some women report pain or discomfort during the process. It only takes a few moments to position an IUD, but if you’re concerned about pain, Dr. Ahmed offers options, including numbing medications.
For most women, the primary benefit of an IUD is that once it’s in place, you don’t have to take any other action to prevent pregnancy. Rest assured you’re protected without taking a daily pill.
Oral contraceptives are also a great choice and the preferred method for millions of women. Some like that these medications have been in use for generations and are the focus of countless clinical trials and studies. Others prefer the routine of taking their pills each day.
Hormonal birth control can also deliver secondary benefits. For example, women who struggle with acne often find their skin is clearer while taking certain types of birth control pills.
These medications can also help reduce menstrual flow for women with heavy periods at risk of anemia. They also can treat those who experience polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
The wide variety of birth control pills gives Dr. Ahmed plenty of options to find an approach that fits your needs. It’s also possible to try a different medication if one type of birth control pills creates side effects.
Both options offer safe, reliable contraception. They’re around 99% effective in preventing unwanted pregnancy, although it’s important to note you must take birth control pills on a rigid schedule to achieve this level of efficacy.
Both options also allow women to control their reproductive health. If you decide you’re ready to add to your family, simply schedule a visit to have your IUD removed or stop taking your birth control pills.
It’s always a good idea to have your OB/GYN assess your health and fertility before trying to get pregnant.
Depending on your health insurance coverage, an IUD can cost more up front than birth control pills. However, when you consider that an IUD offers years of coverage, that price differential lessens.
Our administrative team can check your coverage to give you an idea of what to expect in terms of expense.
No matter which option you choose, it’s essential to understand that neither an IUD nor birth control pills offer protection against sexually transmitted diseases.
If you’re not in a mutually monogamous relationship in which both partners have been tested for STDs, using internal or external condoms still offers the best protection against infection.
If you’re still unsure which option best fits your lifestyle, make an appointment by phone or online today for a family planning consultation. Ask questions, express your concerns, and learn more about the full range of birth control options.
