As a sexually active female, it is important to make sure that you are taking the time to discuss the contraceptive options that are available to you. This way, you will be able to make the choice that best suits your needs. To help give you a better understanding of what some of your options might be, you will want to review the following information.
Oral Contraceptives
Oral contraceptives, commonly referred to as the pill, can be a great way to not only reduce the likelihood of you getting pregnant, but it can help regulate your menstrual cycle as well if that has been an issue for you in the past. It is important to note that there are three types of oral contraceptives. Your options include the combination pill, the extended cycle pill, and the progestin-only pill. Speaking with your doctor will help you determine which of those three options will work the best for your needs.
IUD
The IUD is surgically implanted and it prevents the sperm from reaching the egg. Since this is a long term contraceptive and one that can be expensive to remove early, it is best suited for those who have no intention of having children in the next several years. After all, some contraceptives can last for up to ten years, which means it can be ideal for women who are done having children and do not intend to have any more as they finish out their child-bearing years and go into menopause.
Patch
If you have seen patches that people wear in order to quit smoking, you already understand the concept. This is a patch that you place against clean dry skin, normally on your upper arm, and you are better protected against the risk of unplanned pregnancies. However, unlike other types of patches, this is not one that you will remove every day. It is changed once a week and must always be worn for three weeks out of the month. The four week is the week you will go without the patch and this is when you will have your menstrual bleeding. You have to be careful to remember to put on another patch once that fourth week is up in order to continue being protected.
Make sure that you are addressing any and all concerns and questions with a doctor at a women health care clinic, such as Abortion Care. This way, you will find comfort in the decision you are making and your doctor will be able to address any medical concerns that might arise.
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