Do you have a question about sexual health? Submit your own question to our Sexpert!
Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, and it is always best to talk with your primary care provider if you are concerned about your health. To make an appointment with your primary care provider at UHS, call (585) 275-2662.
Submission: What is the best form of birth control?
There are so many types of birth control out there, and it may seem like everyone you know uses something different. How in the world are you supposed to choose?!? Before jumping into anything, explore all of your options here to help you make an informed decision. If you’d prefer to discuss your options with a professional, you can also certainly do so with your provider.
When deciding which birth control method is best for you, keep in mind that the best type of birth control is the one you are going to use consistently. So, let’s talk about what that might look like.
Are you someone who struggles to remember to take medication every day, even with a reminder set? Maybe the birth control pills aren’t the best option for you. Do you want a birth control that you don’t need to remember every time you have sex? Then perhaps an IUD, implant, or injection is a good option for you. Or maybe you want a hormone free birth control option; you might consider a copper IUD or condoms.
Now let’s consider what an “effective” form of birth control is. You may be talking about preventing pregnancy, preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or both. To protect against STIs, you are going to want to make sure that you use a barrier method along with whatever form of birth control you use. This means an external or internal condom and a dental dam for oral sex. In addition, you may be looking for something else from your birth control, such as lightening your period, clearing up acne, or helping with cramps. There are many benefits to birth control that can be discussed with a medical provider.
Whatever the case may be, rest assured that there is a birth control method out there that will work for you! If you’d like to further explore which birth control is right for you, a good place to start is this quiz from Planned Parenthood. It will help you weigh your options along with your lifestyle and preferences.
Some contraceptive products are available at UHS. You can purchase birth control pills at UHS at a cost lower than at most area pharmacies. To purchase birth control pills, you will need a prescription written by a UHS health care provider. Additionally, patients may obtain Depo-Provera injections, Nexplanon, or an IUD placement at UHS. Availability is dependent on individual insurance benefits. In addition, if you are in need of emergency contraception, Plan B can be purchased at UHS for $15 (compared to $40-50 at area pharmacies). To contact UHS, call (585) 275-2662.