What are my birth control options?
Dr. Gotlin makes several birth control options available to his patients. He’ll make his recommendation after considering your full health history. Some common birth control options include the following:
Implants
A thin rod about the size of a matchstick gets inserted into your arm. It releases hormones that prevent fertilization of your eggs during intercourse. They last up to four years and are removable if you decide you wish to get pregnant.
Overall effectiveness: Over 99%. It starts working during the first five days of your period.
Pills
Oral tablets are taken each day to prevent ovulation. You’ll need to stay on schedule to make this method effective. If you miss pills, you need to use an alternative form of birth control during that time.
Overall effectiveness: Around 99% when taken regularly. This drops to 91% or lower if you occasionally miss pills.
Shots
You receive this shot once every three months. It’s similar to the pill in that it stops eggs from forming. It also builds up a thick wall of mucus, making it difficult for sperm to get through.
Overall effectiveness: Over 99% when taken on time. This drops to 94% or lower if you’re late getting your shot or miss it entirely.
Patches
You apply a fresh patch to your stomach, back, upper arm, or backside every three weeks, taking a week off before putting on a new one. It also prevents fertilization of eggs and makes your uterine environment difficult for sperm.
Overall effectiveness: Around 99% when applied on time. That rate lowers to 94% if you fail to put on a new patch on time.
Are there other reasons to take birth control?
Half of all women who take birth control do so for reasons other than preventing pregnancy. Contraceptives like the pill or hormone shots help women manage the following conditions:
- Irregular periods
- Painful cramping
- Migraines triggered by menstruation
- Skin conditions like facial hair or acne
Can I experience side effects by taking birth control?
Most birth control doesn't prevent you from contracting STDs. You’ll have to keep up with a schedule when it comes to pills, patches, or shots. Other side effects include:
- Headaches
- Sore breasts
- Bouts of nausea
- Developing ovarian cysts
- Pain or infection of an implant site
Check in with him at his Miami Beach office by calling Dr. Gotlin or making an appointment online.
