The effects of an unwanted pregnancy can be devastating. An unintended pregnancy’s emotional, physical, and financial burden is great. For instance, an unintended pregnancy may impact a woman’s overall health, her relationship with her partner, and her future plans for herself and her family. However, all this can be avoided through contraception San Antonio.

Contraception or contraceptive therapy is a safe, effective, and easily reversible method of birth control. It involves using a specific combination of contraceptive methods, including hormonal contraception (such as the pill), IUDs, implants, and condoms. It is especially helpful in women with high-risk pregnancies.

Below are the different types of contraceptives:

Shots

A shot is a type of birth control to prevent pregnancy. The shot contains hormones that prevent ovulation and thickens cervical mucus, making it hard for sperm to reach the egg. The hormone in the shot only lasts three or four days, so you need to get another shot every three months.

Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small T-shaped piece of plastic inserted into your uterus by a healthcare provider. It releases small amounts of copper or hormones that prevent pregnancy by thickening cervical mucus, causing ovulation to be delayed or prevented altogether. An IUD can be left in place for three years and removed by a healthcare provider.

Implants

Implants are small, flexible rods that are implanted in the upper arm. They release a progestin hormone, which prevents pregnancy by stopping ovulation and thickening cervical mucus to prevent sperm from entering the uterus. They work for 3 to 5 years and must be changed every three years. Implants may not be suitable for women who smoke heavily or have abnormal blood clotting (thrombophilia), who are younger than 18 or older than 40, or who have had a stroke or heart attack within the past six months.

Vaginal rings

Vaginal rings are small, flexible plastic devices inserted into the vagina before intercourse. They contain hormones that prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation and thickening cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach an egg. The hormones also thin the uterus lining, preventing the implantation of a fertilized egg in your uterus.

Condoms

Condoms are made from latex and can be worn over the penis or around the neck of the uterus (cervix). Condoms protect against STDs and pregnancy by blocking sperm from entering the vagina during sex. They also protect against STDs by covering exposed parts of your body during sex so you can’t get infected from skin-to-skin contact with someone with an STD. If you are allergic to latex, you may have an allergy to condoms.

The best contraceptive method for you depends on several factors, including your age and medical history. However, some general guidelines can help you choose the best method for your needs. For instance, you need to determine your current hormonal status. Hormones play a crucial role in fertility and can affect your ability to get pregnant or remain pregnant. For more information about contraceptives, contact Aurora OB/GYN professionals.