Birth control is a key subject for any person or couple trying to avoid having children at a given time. This is especially true when having a child might disrupt other areas of your life, like school or your career. Consequently, most people try to pick a family planning method that is both effective and convenient. The choice usually comes down to multiple factors, including your medical history. This is why it is crucial to discuss family planning options with a Desert Star Family Planning specialist. In the meantime, you can consider the available methods and whether they work for you. Here is a look at four factors you should focus on during your search for the ideal birth control.
Affordability and Convenience
Some birth control methods, like the pill, must be taken daily for maximum efficacy. If you regularly forget your appointments or arrive late to meetings, this method may not be ideal for you. It is safe to assume that you may forget to take your pill at the allotted time, impairing its effectiveness. In this case, you may be more suited to a more long-term solution like the IUD implant. The choice here will depend on what you find convenient. You may also need to consider the cost and whether you can sustain it. If you can afford a pack of pills every month but find the IUD costly, you may need to find a way to remember to take the pill on time, such as setting an alarm.
Side Effects
Birth control methods can be hormonal or non-hormonal. Non-hormonal options like the condom rarely have side effects unless you or your partner is allergic to the material, in which case you must discontinue use. However, hormonal methods often carry side effects. These can include breast tenderness, heavy menstrual flow, weight gain, headaches, and acne. Some of these effects are more likely in some people than others. Therefore, you can work with your doctor to assess your risk and determine whether you can handle the side effects of your preferred option.
Reversibility
If you plan on having a family in the future, you should consider the reversibility of your birth control method of choice. A quickly reversible option like the pill is ideal for people or couples planning to get pregnant soon. But if you want to prevent pregnancy for as long as possible, you should consider an IUD or a similarly long-acting method. There are also permanent methods like sterilization for couples or people who do not want children at all.
Relationship Status
If you are in a committed relationship, you should make your partner part of the birth control conversation. This means that you should consider their medical history, among other factors, alongside yours. On the other hand, if you are sexually active but not in a mutually monogamous relationship, you should consider a birth control method that also protects you from STIs.
Discuss Birth Control Options with Your Doctor
Birth control is the solution to not getting pregnant while sexually active. It can help you, or you and your partner, prevent pregnancy until you are ready. Consequently, family planning experts are trained to make this decision as easy as possible. They help you determine the best birth control option for you depending on your lifestyle, medical history, career goals, and more. If you still have questions about which method to choose, schedule a personalized consultation with a family planning clinic today.
