For many women, getting pregnant is an exciting and life-changing occasion. However, if you’re not ready for this next step, or already have kids and want to close this chapter of your life, there are several effective options to consider. The caring OB-GYN team at Advanced OB-GYN Services in Saint Peters and St. Louis, MO, regularly help patients determine the right choices and methods for them. Here, they discuss some of the temporary and permanent birth control options available for women.

Temporary Contraception Options

• Hormonal Methods: Hormonal birth control methods, like the pill and patch, prevent pregnancy by stopping the eggs from being released from the ovaries, thickening the cervical mucus to keep sperm from getting into the uterus and thinning the lining to deter implantation. It is highly effective but can come with some side effects, like breast swelling, nausea, and weight gain.
• IUDs: Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are placed into the uterus and prevent pregnancy by keeping sperm cells away from an egg. They can last up to 10 years and are more than 99% effective in preventing pregnancies. If you change your mind, an OB-GYN can quickly remove it. 
• Barrier Methods: Barrier methods of birth control, like condoms and diaphragms, are readily available over-the-counter but are less effective than the other options. They work by blocking the sperm from entering the uterus and are a viable choice if you prefer to avoid birth control that has hormones or requires the insertion of an intrauterine device.

Permanent Contraception Options

• Tubal Ligation: Also known as tubal sterilization, this surgery involves cutting the fallopian tubes to permanently prevent pregnancy. This surgical procedure can be performed at any time and won’t affect your menstrual cycle. It’s common to experience abdominal pain, dizziness, bloating and fatigue after the surgery. While a reversal can be done, it requires extensive surgery and isn’t guaranteed to work. 
• Essure: Essure is a non-invasive type of sterilization for women that irritates the lining of the fallopian tubes. This forms a scar over time that prevents the sperm from reaching the egg. During the procedure, a gynecologist uses a thin tube to pass the device through the vagina, into the uterus and fallopian tubes. Because scarring doesn’t form right away, it’s recommended to take another form of birth control for three months after the procedure.

If you are interested in taking birth control, contact Dr. Hazan and the seasoned team at Advanced OB-GYN Services. With over 30 years of experience as a board-certified OB-GYN, Dr. Hazan is known for creating a personalized and comfortable experience and supporting each patient with same-day appointments for emergencies. For more information about his cutting-edge services, visit his website. To schedule an appointment, call (636) 928-1800 for the St. Peters office, or (314) 291-2140 for the St. Louis location today.