Contraception Counseling in Ocala, FL

Types of Contraception

Today, there are many options as it relates to birth control. To select the one that is best suited to your needs, and those of your partner, you should consult with a gynecologist from Florida Women’s Health. 

If you’re seeking contraception counseling in Marion County, FL, contact Florida Women’s Health today to schedule an appointment.

Hormonal Contraceptives

Hormonal birth control can often help to regulate a woman’s menstrual cycle and associated symptoms by stabilizing her hormones. While hormonal contraceptives are particularly common, they are not recommended for each and every female. This decision will be based upon the patient’s health and any prior conditions or risk factors she may have.

Birth Control Pills

Birth control pills are a form of oral contraception that either contain both estrogen and progestin, or solely progestin (progestin-only pills are often used for women who are breastfeeding). These pills are taken daily to prevent a woman’s ovaries from releasing eggs. They also help to prevent pregnancy by causing the cervical mucus to thicken, which blocks sperm from fertilizing an egg. Birth control pills are safe, effective, and convenient.

There are many different dosages of OCP that are dosed out based on what is best for each patient. OCP can help patients with acne, PCOS, and endometriosis, and reduces the lifetime risk of uterine and ovarian cancer by 50 percent.

Birth Control Patch

Used correctly, the patch is as effective as birth control pills are in preventing pregnancy. The patch is a form of birth control that a patient wears on the skin and looks like a small band-aid. The hormones it contains (estrogen and progestin) are similar to those used in birth control pills but are absorbed through the skin. The patch works by suppressing the pituitary gland which, in turn, prevents the ovaries from releasing eggs. It also thickens cervical mucus making it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg. The patch can also be used to treat irregular periods, menstrual cramps, or endometriosis.

Depo-Provera

The Depo-Provera or Depo shot is another very effective method of birth control. This shot must be given once every 3 months by a trained medical professional, typically during a quick appointment at our office in Ocala. Women who receive this shot will typically experience lighter periods, or will stop getting their period all together after several months of consecutive shots. This method is especially beneficial to women who are looking for a flexible and low-maintenance form of birth control that is still highly effective with a success rate of over 99%.

Vaginal Ring (NuvaRing)

A vaginal ring is a form of contraception that is soft, flexible, and worn in the vagina. The key benefit of the ring is that a patient does not need to take it daily to get complete monthly protection. In a given one month period, the ring must be inserted into the vagina, removed after 3 weeks, and a new ring inserted no more than 7 days later. The hormones it contains (estrogen and progestin) are similar to those used in birth control pills. However, unlike birth control pills, they are absorbed directly into the blood stream through the vaginal wall, delivering a consistent level of medication improving effectiveness and limiting side effects.

Nexplanon

Nexplanon is a levonorgestrel-releasing implant that is placed under a patient’s skin. It is one of the most effective forms of birth control. The implant can be removed by a gynecologist at any time, and fertility will quickly return.

Non-Hormonal Forms of Birth Control

Some women can experience adverse side effects from adding more hormones to their body via contraceptives. Non-hormonal options are ideal in these situations, and is also commonly recommended for women who wish to breastfeed while remaining on an effective form of birth control.

Condoms

Condoms are a barrier form of birth control that physically block the sperm from entering the vagina. They are the only form of protection that can help to stop the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), like HIV, and prevent pregnancy. A condom is a latex or polyurethane sheath that is closed at one end and fits over a man’s penis. Condoms are also available for females and have a flexible ring at either end. One end is closed and inserted into the vagina and the other end is open with the ring remaining outside the vagina. To help assure protection, users should read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Permanent Contraception (Bilateral Salpingectomy)

Bilateral salpingectomy is a procedure that removes both of a woman’s fallopian tubes in one same-day procedure. Patients normally experience minimal pain with this procedure and recovery time is less than one week. It also reduces the risk of future ovarian cancer. Patients should be aware that the procedure provides permanent birth control and is NOT reversible.

Intrauterine Device (IUD)

IUD is a small, flexible device that is placed into the uterus in the office. It is a painless procedure. An IUD works through several different actions that include thickening the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from entering the uterus, inhibiting the sperm from reaching or fertilizing an egg, and making the lining of the uterus thin. There are two types of IUD, one which releases the hormone progestin and one that has no hormone. Both types are highly effective and last between 7-10 years if needed for contraception. Progestin containing IUD’s often make menses stop or give patients very light menses. While they are just as effective as sterilization with regards to birth control, a gynecologist can remove the device at any time, allowing the patient to become pregnant the next month. Dr. Riley offers a discreet, convenient, and effective IUD called Liletta.