When it comes to family planning, women today have a lot of options. Whether you’re wanting to avoid pregnancy entirely – for the time being or in general –  or just taking a healthy pause between babies, there is most likely something out there for you that works well. If you’re not sure how to choose the best birth control for you, the following information will help. 

Birth Control FAQ

Which methods of birth control prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted infections, or STIs?

Condoms are the only method of birth control that prevents the transmission of most STI’s. Therefore, it is wise to use condoms if you are not monogamous, even if you rely on another form of birth control to prevent pregnancy. 

Can birth control cause infertility?

Every birth control method is tested extensively to ensure its effects are only temporary. In other words, none of the contraceptives available today have been shown to cause infertility. The Depo Provera injection method has a longer return to fertility after discontinuing use, but none cause infertility. 

How effective is birth control?

Although it’s possible to conceive despite using birth control, the chances of doing so are incredibly low if you use it as directed. Of the methods currently available, the most effective family planning method is the IUD, while the least effective approaches are spermicide and the rhythm method. 

Does birth control cause side effects?

Just as every woman’s body responds to pregnancy differently, every woman experiences different side effects when using birth control. Some approaches, like condoms, do not have any side effects (aside from potential allergic reactions to its material or lubrication substance). Hormonal methods, on the other hand, like the pill, patch, implant, shot, and some IUDs, might cause weight gain, acne, moodiness, and tender breasts. The copper IUD, (Paragard), which contains no hormones, can make for a heavier, crampier period, but is the method of choice for women seeking a highly effective birth control method that does not contain hormones.

We recommend having an office visit to discuss all of your options with one of our Certified Nurse Midwives. All insurance plans compliant with the Affordable Care Act, as well as Medicaid and Tricare, cover visits for family planning as well as the contraception devices and methods themselves, so most covered women pay nothing out of pocket for this care.

If you want to learn more about birth control, turn to the compassionate and knowledgeable team at Geneva Woods Birth Center in Anchorage, AK. They can answer all your questions about family planning and ultimately help you choose the best contraception method for you. As a birthing center and OB-GYN practice, they are proud to offer comprehensive health services for women at all stages of life. Since 2002, their Certified Nurse Midwives have welcomed more than 1,200 babies into the world. If your family is done growing, though, they’re happy to help with that, too. Visit their website to explore their family planning services, or call (907) 561-2626 to make an appointment today.