From Pill to IUDs: What Kind of Birth Control Is Right for You?

When it comes to preventing pregnancies, there are many types of birth control available for both men and women. From traditional methods like condoms and the pill, to more modern alternatives like intrauterine devices (IUDs), it can often be a little overwhelming to decide which one is right for you.

Let’s discuss the different types of birth control for both men and women, to help you determine which one may be best suited for you.

 

Types of Birth Control for Women:

 

● Hormonal Birth Control

Hormonal birth control includes options such as the pill, patch, ring, and injection. These birth control methods work by regulating a woman's hormones to prevent ovulation, which is the release of an egg (ovum) from the ovaries.

Hormonal birth control is highly effective when used correctly, but it can have side effects like weight gain, mood changes, and lowered libido.

 

● Barrier Methods

This type of birth control includes internal condoms (femidoms/female condoms), diaphragms, and cervical caps. They work by physically blocking sperm from reaching the egg.

Barrier methods tend to be less effective than hormonal options, but they do not pose the same potential for hormonal side effects.

 

● Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs)

This type of birth control includes options like the IUD and implant. LARCs are highly effective and can prevent pregnancy for several years, but they require a healthcare professional to insert and remove them from your body.

LARCs also have the benefit of not requiring daily attention like most other types of birth control. You can get LARCs and not worry about having to use products or medication regularly to prevent pregnancy.

 

Types of Birth Control for Men:

 

● Condoms

Male condoms are perhaps the most popular type of birth control in the world. Condoms are a barrier method of birth control that physically block sperm from reaching the egg.

Condoms are also quite effective given they are used correctly, and also protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

 

● Vasectomy

While reversible in most cases, a vasectomy is a permanent form of birth control where the tubes that carry sperm are blocked. A vasectomy is highly effective for birth control, but does require a minor surgical procedure.

 

What Kind of Birth Control Is Right for You?

Choosing the right type of birth control can depend on a variety of factors, such as your lifestyle, personal preferences, and medical history.

For example, a married couple looking for a low-maintenance long-term option may prefer a LARC or a vasectomy. Whereas an individual with many sexual partners may opt for male condoms because they also help prevent STIs.

It is always best to talk to your healthcare professional or get a virtual doctor appointment to help you decide which types of birth control are best suited for you.

 

 

With the advent of telemedicine, it is easier than ever to have a virtual doctor appointment to discuss your options for birth control. This is especially helpful for those who may not have easy access to a healthcare provider or comprehensive health insurance.

We highly recommend calling TelMDCare at 800-230-2050 to set up a virtual doctor appointment for the best virtual doctor consultation for birth control today.