If there’s one thing we as women are familiar with, it’s birth control. It’s one thing many are on at some point in their life, for many reasons. And it’s not just to prevent pregnancies, though it is definitely a major factor for most. But did you know there are several different types of birth control? Let’s take a look at today’s forms if you’ve been debating starting it and are unsure of where to begin.
First, let me start by saying that you need to discuss any of these forms with your OB-GYN or a primary care doctor. They can help answer any questions you may have and recommend what they believe to be right for you. Everyone is different!
1. The Pill
The pill is an extremely common form of birth control that many women take. This type has been around for a long time.
The main thing someone should consider when taking the pill whether you are going to remember to take it consistently. And by consistently we also mean within the same timeframe (definitely not something I could do) in order for it to keep your cycles regular and to keep everything else internally in order.
2. Nexplanon
This is a form of contraceptive that is placed within your arm. This tiny tube has pros and cons like the rest of the forms of birth control. On the plus side, it lasts for at least three to four years. So if you’re looking to hold off on kids for a while, this is a sure way to guarantee that.
However, you do have to check the placement while it’s in your arm. The possibility of it migrating after it’s been inserted or over time is a factor you should consider, as it may have to be removed afterwards. Some women have mentioned bruising from the insertion site and pain after the procedure, but hardly feel it after it’s been in place for a while.
3. IUD
This is one that many women are familiar with and there are multiple forms. There are five forms, four that are progestin-based and one that is not. They typically reduce a woman’s cycle and aid in making it lighter or not as long.
Liletta, Kyleena, Mirena, and Skyla are used here within the U.S. and last about four to six years upon insertion.
The fifth form is a copper IUD that does not send any hormones into the body. Instead, it causes your immune system to amp up to help in preventing pregnancies. While this one can stay within your uterus for over 10 years, it can make cycles heavier — something no woman wants to hear. Similar to the Nexplanon, you do have to check the placement monthly with the strings on all IUDs that are attached to the device. Migration can happen, but is not likely.
Like with any of these forms, it takes a cycle or two before your body will accept the change and start skipping your periods or make them lighter. You can notice more cramping, uterine pain, or any other symptoms you typically get within a cycle after starting a form of birth control. It doesn’t last long I promise!
Many women take birth control as well for aiding in acne control with the amount of hormones being sent into your bloodstream.
Do not be completely surprised if you still have periods after being on one for so many months or years. Not every woman gets that luxury — unless you’re doing the pill, then it is likely due to the process!
However, the benefits I believe outweigh the “risks” or “what ifs,” depending upon why you’re looking into one. Let’s be real, pregnancy will always be a possibility unless you’ve removed all of your lady bits. But there’s a reason so many are on these different forms — it’s because of how high the prevention likelihood is!
Like any medication or medical intervention you look into, there will always be symptoms to watch out for. Your OB-GYN is always happy to explain these to you and reassure you on any concerns you may have.
Love your form of birth control or wanting to look into changing it? Let us know in the comments!
Photo by No Revisions on Unsplash
