Comparing Birth Control Options

Last updated 8 months ago

If you’re sexually active and want to avoid pregnancy, choosing the right birth control for you is a must. Not all kinds of birth control are right for everyone. Everything from personal preference to your medical history will influence the choice you make. As you weigh your birth control options, consider these facts:

The pill - hand holding contraceptives against a white backgroun

Condoms
Condoms are a safe, cost-effective birth control method that also helps protect against some sexually transmitted diseases. Condoms cost about one dollar each, but they are often available for free in family planning clinics. When used correctly, condoms are 98 percent effective in preventing pregnancy. You can increase the effectiveness of condoms by using them with a spermicide.

Condoms are well-tolerated by most men and women. If you have a latex allergy, you can use condoms made of plastic.

Birth Control Pills, Shots and Patches
Hormonal birth control methods include pills, shots, and patches. They are about 99 percent effective in preventing pregnancy when taken properly and about 90 percent effective when doses are missed. There are a wide range of pills, shots, and patches available, each with differing combinations and amounts of hormones. The side effects of hormonal birth controls vary depending on which ones are used. Your doctor will decide which method is best for you base on your medical history.

Hormonal birth control methods vary in cost. These methods are convenient, but they do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases, and they can cause blood clots and other uncomfortable side effects in some women.

Implants
Implants are small devices placed in the upper arm or the uterus by a doctor. They give continuous protection against pregnancy for up to three years, but they do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases. There are a few different birth control implants available that range in cost from $400 to $800.

These birth control methods are some of the most popular and most effective in preventing pregnancy, but there are other options. Let Lovejoy Surgicenter help you select the best pregnancy prevention plan for you. Call us today to schedule an appointment at (503) 715-3509. In addition to contraception, we offer a range of women’s healthcare services, including abortions.