Contraceptive (Birth Control) Counseling
- Placement of IUDs (ParaGard, Mirena, Skyla, and Kyleena)
- Placement of Contraceptive Implants (Nexplanon)
Choosing a birth control method is a very personal process that can take some consideration. Your Primary Care Doctor in San Diego can help you understand the risks and benefits of different options so you can choose the correct birth control method for your family planning goals.
Several different birth control options can be considered. Some birth control options your Primary Care Doctor in San Diego can discuss with you are as follows.
Combination Oral Pills: Combination oral pills are taken daily. They work by interfering with the body’s ovulation cycle which prevents pregnancy.
Hormonal Patches and Vaginal Rings: Hormonal patches are worn on the skin for seven days for three consecutive weeks. Vaginal rings are inserted into the vagina for three weeks and removed for the 4th week. These hormonal options work similarly to oral pills by preventing ovulation which can prevent pregnancy.
Contraceptive Implants: Contraceptive implants such as Nexplanon, are placed during a minor procedure in your Primary Care Doctor’s Office. The implant is a small rod that is placed under the skin of the arm. Contraceptive protection begins within 24 hours of placement and is effective for three years.
Intrauterine Devices: An intrauterine device or IUD is a T-shaped device that is inserted into the cervix during an office visit with your Primary Care Doctor in San Diego. Once inserted, pregnancy can be prevented from 3 to 12 years, depending on the device inserted. Available IUDs to discuss with your Primary Care Doctor in San Diego include ParaGard, Mirena, Skyla, and Kyleena.
Barrier Methods and Natural Family Planning: These methods are also valid birth control methods that can be discussed with your Primary Care Doctor in San Diego. These methods provide the least amount of pregnancy prevention but can be great options for many women.
To schedule an appointment with your Primary Care Doctor in San Diego to discuss contraceptive counseling, please click here or call us at 858-554-1212.