One Birth Control Option Isn't Always Best for Everyone

Taking charge of your reproductive health involves making decisions about birth control, but which option is best for you? The methods your friends prefer aren't automatically the best choice for you. Your Dothan, AL, doctors at Women's Medical Center are here to share information about birth control that can help you make your decision.IUD

How to evaluate birth control options?

Before you choose a birth control method, consider these factors:

  • Effectiveness: Methods that are highly effective will increase your confidence in the birth control option.
  • Duration: Some birth control methods, such as condoms, can only be used once, while contraceptive injections can prevent pregnancy for three months.
  • Ease of Use: If the method is easy to use, you may be more likely to use it consistently.
  • Health Concerns: Some birth control methods aren't recommended if you have certain health problems. For example, your doctor may not prescribe oral contraceptives if you have a history of stroke or blood clots.
  • Reversibility: How soon after you stop using the method can you become fertile again?
  • Religious Beliefs: Some types of birth control may not be compatible with your beliefs.

What types of birth control are available?

Common types of birth control include:

  • Barrier Methods: Barrier methods include diaphragms, condoms, contraceptive sponges and cervical caps. They work by physically preventing sperm from entering your uterus.
  • Hormonal Methods: Hormonal methods stop the release of eggs from your ovaries. Birth control pills, patches, rings, shots and implants are popular hormonal methods. Some intrauterine devices (IUDs) contain hormones while others do not.
  • Natural Family Planning: Also called "the rhythm method," this form of birth control involves avoiding sex on the days when you are fertile. Because ovulation can vary from month to month, it's not as effective as other birth control methods.
  • Sterilization: Sterilization is the only way to permanently prevent pregnancy. During the sterilization procedure, your doctor ties off your fallopian tubes, which prevents eggs from reaching your uterus.

Contact your Dothan doctor about birth control

Are you interested in learning more about your birth control in Dothan, AL? Call the doctors at Women's Medical Center, at (334) 793-3900 to schedule an appointment.

Office Hours

Monday

8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Tuesday

8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Wednesday

8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Thursday

8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Friday

8:00 am - 12:00 pm

Saturday

Closed

Sunday

Closed

Monday
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Tuesday
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Wednesday
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Thursday
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday
8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Saturday
Closed
Sunday
Closed