An Overview of Contraception
Not all sexually active women living in the Plano, Frisco and Dallas, Texas communities desire to become pregnant now or in the immediate future. Because of this, contraception is one of the leading reasons for a gynecologic visit with Dr. Dennis Eisenberg and his OBGYN team. Dr. Eisenberg will consult with each patient on their needs and wants, as well as conduct a physical examination, in order to help determine the most appropriate birth control option.
What is Contraception?
Contraception is defined as the use of various devices, drugs, agents, sexual practices or surgical procedures to prevent pregnancy. Contraception prevents the fertilization of the egg by sperm cells so women can choose when to have a baby.
Birth control has been around for years. Today, there are a wide number of safe and effective options for women of various ages. Not all women desire the same form of contraception, so Dr. Eisenberg takes his time with each patient to determine the correct method.
Common Birth Control Options
Birth control is readily available to women to help prevent pregnancy before it begins. There are various methods available today that are non-permanent, simple and easy to use, as well as more permanent options. These options include:
- Birth control pills- Also known as oral contraceptives, this form of birth control is one of the most popular methods. Birth control pills are composed of hormones, typically estrogen and/or progestin, which prevent the eggs from leaving the ovaries by making the cervical mucus thicker. This creates an environment where the egg cannot meet the sperm.
- Vaginal ring- A vaginal ring placed within the vagina works much like birth control pills. Once the ring is inserted and comes into contact with the vaginal tissue, the hormones are released into the body.
- Birth control patch- The ‘patch’ is a thin, beige piece of plastic that is applied directly to a woman’s skin in a covered area. Similar to the pill and ring, it releases hormones when in contact with a woman’s body.
- Birth control implant- This matchstick-sized rod is inserted into the inner part of a woman’s arm for up to 3 years at a time, and follows a similar hormone release as the monthly options (patch, pills, ring).
- Intrauterine device (IUD) – A longer-lasting contraception that continues to gain popularity is the IUD. An IUD is a tiny, T-shaped device made of plastic that is wrapped in either copper or contains hormones. The copper device kills off nearby sperm since copper is toxic to sperm. The hormone options release a form of progestin that prevents sperm from reaching the egg. IUD methods are effective from 3-10 years, depending on the product.
- Female sterilization- The most permanent form of contraception is sterilization. During the surgical procedure, an OBGYN will close or block a woman’s fallopian tubes so the sperm can no longer pass through them and meet with an egg.
Each contraception method is highly effective if used as directed. Dr. Eisenberg and his team will explain the pros and cons of each method, as well as thorough instructions, with each patient.
For additional information on contraception, or to schedule an appointment with an OBGYN in the Plano, Frisco and Dallas, Texas area to discuss birth control options, please contact the office of Dr. Dennis Eisenberg.