Contraception Management services offered in Tacoma, WA
Family planning is an essential part of women’s health, which is why Steven Maynard, MD, offers comprehensive contraceptive management through his practice at Rainier OB/GYN in Tacoma, Washington. If you’re ready to explore all of the available options, call the office or schedule online to set up a personalized visit at your earliest convenience.
Contraception Management Q & A
What are some birth control options?
Never before have women had so many outstanding options for deciding when or whether to begin a family. In fact, choosing between so many great birth control options can feel overwhelming.
Birth control can be divided into two categories: barrier and hormonal methods.
Barrier birth control
These methods of birth control create a physical barrier between sperm and egg to prevent unwanted pregnancy. Some examples include:
- Male or female condoms
- Cervical caps
- Diaphragms
- Sponges
You can add spermicide to any of these methods to create even more protection.
Hormonal birth control
These birth control methods alter your hormonal balance to reduce the risk of unwanted pregnancy. Some examples include:
- Pills
- Intrauterine device (IUD)
- Birth control implant (NexplanonⓇ)
- Patches
- Vaginal rings
- Birth control shots
Some hormonal options have numerous formulations, helping you find the right fit for your needs. For women who are certain a pregnancy is not in their future, tubal ligation offers a permanent birth control option.
How does contraception management work?
Birth control is a very personal choice, and you may find some options to be a better solution than others. Your contraceptive needs might also shift and change over time. No matter where you are in your reproductive life, Dr. Maynard offers personalized contraception management.
Many women need to try a few types of birth control before they find the right match. That is especially true if you’re also hoping to reduce menstrual bleeding in addition to preventing unwanted pregnancy. You might also want to switch to a completely new method and need more information about what to expect.
Finally, women who are planning to begin trying to conceive in the coming year may want to choose options that allow full fertility to return shortly after being discontinued. Dr. Maynard can help you navigate your birth control choices.
Which birth control options require little planning?
If you’re like many women, you want a birth control option that will provide reliable protection without having to remember to take a daily pill. Fortunately, there are some great options that will fit your busy lifestyle.
An intrauterine device (IUD) is a great way to protect against unwanted pregnancy over a long period. You’ll need to come into the office to have your IUD inserted, but once in place, it will prevent pregnancy for 3-5 years. While less common than hormonal options, Copper-based IUDs last nearly 10 years.
Nexplanon, the birth control implant, is another excellent low-effort option. The implanted device is only around the size and shape of a matchstick and is inserted via a quick in-office procedure using a hollow needle. You don’t have to do anything else for three years, at which point you can have the device replaced or discuss alternative options.
When you’re ready to learn more about contraception management, call the office to set up a visit. Online booking is also an option and is fast and easy.
