Comprehensive Details About
Birth Control
Birth control refers to methods used to prevent pregnancy. There are many different types of birth control methods available, including hormonal methods, barrier methods, intrauterine devices (IUDs), natural family planning, and sterilization. Some methods work by preventing the release of an egg (ovulation), while others work by preventing fertilization or implantation of a fertilized egg.
What Birth Control Methods Should I Consider?
When you come to VERITAS OBGYN for birth control, you have access to the full range of contraceptives. Your doctor reviews your medical history and performs a pelvic exam to be sure you don’t have any health concerns that would influence your choice of birth control. Your doctor takes time to talk with you about your options so you can make the best decision for your lifestyle.
These are some of the birth control methods frequently used by our patients and their effectiveness:
Hormonal methods (e.g., birth control pills, patches, injections): These methods are highly effective when used correctly and consistently, with a failure rate of less than 1%.
Intrauterine devices (IUDs): These methods are highly effective, with a failure rate of less than 1%. Some types of IUDs can provide protection against pregnancy for up to 10 years.
Barrier methods (e.g., condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps): These methods are moderately effective, with a typical failure rate ranging from 12-24%, but they can be more effective when used correctly and consistently.
Sterilization (e.g., tubal ligation, vasectomy): These methods are highly effective, with a failure rate of less than 1%. However, they are considered permanent and may not be reversible.
Natural family planning: This method is less effective than other methods, with a typical failure rate ranging from 24-33%, but it can be more effective when used correctly and consistently.
It’s important to know that birth control pills and patches are more effective when they’re consistently used. For example, birth control pills are more effective than indicated on this list when the pill is taken every day at the same time.
How Do Hormone-Containing Birth Control Methods Prevent Pregnancy?
The hormones in contraceptives cause changes in your body that ensure you don’t get pregnant. Depending on the hormones in the birth control method you use, they may stop ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, or change the uterine lining.
What are Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs)?
LARCs are inserted once and stay in place a long time, continuously preventing pregnancy for years without worrying about taking pills or replacing rings or patches. With a LARC, you get birth control that’s just as effective as a tubal ligation, but you can still get pregnant any time. You only need to ask your doctor at VERITAS OBGYN to remove the device.
These are the types of LARCs:
- Nexplanon: Nexplanon, a small device that’s about the size of a matchstick, is inserted under your skin. It slowly releases hormones and prevents pregnancy for up to three years.
- IUDs: An IUD is a small, T-shaped device that’s placed in your uterus. Hormone-containing IUDs can safely stay in place for 3-5 years before they must be replaced because the hormones run out. You can also get an IUD that doesn’t contain hormones. Instead, it’s made of copper that effectively prevents pregnancy for 10 years.
When you need birth control, the team at VERITAS OBGYN gives you the information you need to make the choice that’s best for you. To schedule an appointment, use the online booking feature or call one of their nine offices.
Our Specialists
Virginia Elizabeth Mclean, MD, FACOG
Dr. Virginia McLean, MD is an Obstetrics & Gynecology Specialist in New York, NY. Her office accepts telehealth appointments.
Dr. Mclean graduated from the Medical University of South Carolina College of Medicine in 2014. She works in Port Jefferson Station, NY and 8 other locations and specializes in Obstetrics & Gynecology.
English 
Spanish