Getting pregnant when you are not ready can be an overwhelming stage. Motherhood is a blissful experience. However, it carries conflicting emotions with it. A major challenge in your reproductive cycle is getting pregnant at the time you want. The internet is abuzz with birth control options. We talked to Dr. Quinsey, a specialist in birth control in Lake Mary, to separate the myths from the facts about birth control. Christopher K. Quinsey, M.D, explains why some methods have higher success rates than others and which ones are suitable for you.
What is Birth Control?
Birth control is a medical process that entails offsetting pregnancy until later when you are ready. Birth control is not a one size fits all technique. Birth control mechanisms vary according to time, reason, and the state of your reproductive health. Age is a key factor in determining suitable birth control for you.
1. Vaginal ring
A vaginal ring or NuvaRing is an intrauterine device that controls birth hormones. An obstetrician inserts the flexible plastic inside your vagina. A vaginal ring suppresses hormones for three weeks, then you take it out to allow menstruation and insert a new one after the menses clear. NuvaRing works by causing hormonal changes that thin the endometrium or increase mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the ovum. A vaginal ring is effective and reliable. It does not affect your sexual spontaneity.
2. Copper IUD
Copper intrauterine devices are 99% effective. A copper IUD is a small T-shaped coil that changes the uterus lining and creates a harsh environment for sperms by dissociating into copper ions. Copper IUD effectively controls conception without altering your hormones. It is safe and has mitigated risk to people with copper allergies. The IUD is also useful if you want to use it as an emergency birth control procedure. However, it should be within five days of intercourse.
3. Hormone therapy
Hormone therapy is a blanket term for all hormone replenishment and procedures to control your reproductive cycle. Obstetricians use pills that stimulate or improve hormone production. HRT is a first-line medical procedure for treating menopausal symptoms, but doctors tweak it to control conceiving. However effective hormone therapy is, it heavily relies on your reproductive cycle.
4. Contraceptive pills
Progestin and estrogen pills are some contraceptive pills most obstetricians recommend. Different contraceptive pills work with different principles to prevent conceiving. Combination pills stop ovulation and influence the sperm microbiome. Progestin pills, on the other hand, thin the endometrium to prevent implantation of the fetus. You should consult with your doctor on the best contraceptive pill for you.
5. Tubal ligation
Tubal ligation is an effective and somewhat long-term birth control procedure. The obstetrician inserts a laparoscope inside your fallopian tube and seals them off near the pubic region. The procedure is done under general anesthesia and requires a follow-up routine to heal effectively. Tubal ligation does not interfere with your menstrual cycle.
Conclusion
Birth control is still uncharted territory to most obstetricians. Dr. Quinsey prides himself in vast experience and knowledge in innovative and conventional birth control methods. Visit Christopher K Quinsey, MD Obstetrics and Gynecology, located in Lake Mary, FL, to take charge of your life.
