Birth Control Methods

Birth control is a crucial aspect of reproductive health that can be used to prevent pregnancy, regulate menstrual cycles, or manage health conditions. There are many different methods of birth control, so it is important to consider which ones will best suit your needs and lifestyle to be most effective. Below are some of the types we provide at Mangat Ob/Gyn.

Types of Birth Control Methods

  1. Hormonal Methods Hormonal birth control methods involve the use of hormones such as estrogen and progestin to prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, or thin the uterine lining. Common hormonal methods include:
    • Birth Control Pills: Taken daily, these pills contain synthetic hormones to prevent ovulation. They are widely used and effective when taken consistently, with a typical use effectiveness rate of about 91%.
    • Birth Control Patch: A small, sticky patch applied to the skin once a week. It releases hormones similar to those in the pill and is effective in preventing pregnancy with a 91% effectiveness rate with typical use.
    • Birth Control Shot (Depo-Provera): An injection given every three months that contains progestin. It is 94% effective with typical use.
    • Birth Control Implant: A small, flexible rod inserted under the skin of the arm, releasing hormones for up to three years. It is over 99% effective.
    • Vaginal Ring: A small, flexible ring inserted into the vagina, releasing hormones to prevent pregnancy. It is 91% effective with typical use.
  2. Intrauterine Devices (IUDs) An IUD is a small device inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. There are two types:
    • Hormonal IUD (e.g., Mirena): Releases progestin to prevent pregnancy. It is over 99% effective and can last 3 to 7 years depending on the type.
    • Copper IUD (e.g., Paragard): A non-hormonal device that uses copper to prevent sperm from fertilizing an egg. It is also over 99% effective and can remain in place for up to 10 years.
  3. Permanent Methods
    • Tubal Ligation: Commonly referred to as “getting your tubes tied,” this involves surgically blocking or sealing the fallopian tubes to prevent eggs from reaching the uterus. It has a very low failure rate, typically less than 1%, and can be performed laparoscopically.