Hormonal Birth Control Methods You Should Know

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Birth Control Methods

For most women and men, contraception is a natural part of their sex life. Contraceptives empower couples to decide whether and when they want to have children. The various contraceptive methods help in preventing unwanted pregnancy, whereas some protect against sexually transmitted diseases. The common contraceptive methods used are hormonal-based, use barrier methods, or are natural. As well, there are also chemical or surgical methods of contraception. Your Forest Hills birth control specialist recommends the best method after a thorough assessment. Here are the hormonal birth control methods you should know.

The pill

The pill has been one of the classic methods of contraception for over 50 years. In contrast to other hormonal contraceptives such as vaginal rings or hormone implants, the pill is used orally, hence why it is known as an oral contraceptive. It works by disrupting your natural menstrual cycle, thereby preventing pregnancy. When you stop taking the pill, your cycle resumes, and you can get pregnant. Your doctor may prescribe the pill depending on various factors such as age, risk factors, previous illnesses, and individual preferences.

Before prescription, your doctor assesses your state of health and asks if you have a history of bleeding, hair, or skin problems. Also, they assess your history of menstrual cramps and check for underlying conditions such as eating disorders, high blood pressure, as well as the possibility of blood clots, obesity, and liver diseases. Some women experience certain side effects, including stomach problems, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Three-month injection

The three-month injection is a hormonal contraceptive that contains a compound progestin that thickens the cervical mucus. The gynecologist injects a depot preparation every three months into your muscles, mostly on your upper arm. The three-month injection is considered a safe contraceptive, but it cannot be stopped if side effects occur midway.

On the one hand, the hormone reduces the mucous membrane structure in the uterus so that an egg cell that may be fertilized cannot implant itself. On the other hand, it thickens the cervical mucus, making it difficult for the sperm to penetrate.

Certain medications such as antibiotics can impair the effectiveness of the 3-month injection. Therefore, you should inform your doctor that you have the injection before the prescription of any drug.

Common side effects of the three-month injection are weight gain, tiredness, headache, loss of libido, and a tendency to depression. Prolonged menstrual bleeding and spotting can also occur. Also, acne and hair loss are possible side effects. You should talk to your doctor if you experience any of these side effects.

Contraceptive ring

The contraceptive ring or vaginal ring is a flexible plastic ring, which is loaded with hormones. It is inserted into your vagina and slowly releases estrogen and progestin for over 21 days. It offers a relatively high level of security against unwanted pregnancy.

The use of the contraceptive ring can occasionally lead to increased discharge and vaginal infections. Chest pain, mood swings, and nausea are also possible.

Hormonal birth control methods have proved to be effective in preventing unwanted pregnancies. Contact the specialists at Raveco Medical for assessment and recommendation of the best birth control method.

Yolanda Rivera

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