5 Considerations When Choosing Your Birth Control

Choosing birth control is a deeply personal decision — one that should fit your body, lifestyle, and future plans. With so many options out there, it’s completely normal to feel a bit overwhelmed. But don’t worry—you’re not alone! The OB/GYN team at Women’s Care of Beverly Hills is here for all of your gynecological and reproductive needs.

Understanding these five key factors can help you find the birth control method that works best for you. 

1. Effectiveness

Not all birth control methods are equally effective. If preventing pregnancy is your top priority, you may want to consider highly effective options like intrauterine devices (IUDs), birth control implants, or birth control shots. All of these forms have an effectiveness rate of 95% or greater. 

Methods like the pill, patch, and ring are also effective when used correctly, but their success rate depends on consistency. Less effective forms include condoms and the rhythm method, in which you keep track of your cycle and fertile periods. 

2. Lifestyle and convenience

Some birth control methods require daily or regular attention, while others offer long-term protection with little maintenance. 

If you prefer not to have to think about birth control, long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) such as an IUD or implant may be ideal. If you prefer more control over your contraception, the pill or patch may be a better fit — just keep in mind that they require strict adherence.

3. Hormonal versus non-hormonal options

Birth control methods can be either hormonal or non-hormonal. Hormonal options (such as the pill, patch, ring, shot, and some IUDs) contain estrogen, progestin, or both, and can help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce acne, and ease PMS symptoms. 

However, some women prefer non-hormonal methods due to side effects or medical conditions. Options like the copper IUD, condoms, or fertility awareness methods may be preferable if you wish to avoid hormones.

4. Side effects and health considerations

Different birth control methods come with varying side effects. For instance, hormonal birth control may cause mood changes, nausea, or headaches, while IUDs may lead to heavier or irregular periods initially. It’s important to discuss your health history, including any conditions like high blood pressure or migraines, with our team to ensure you choose a safe and suitable option.

5. Reversibility and family planning goals

If you plan on having children in the near future, you might want a method that is easily reversible, such as a pill, patch, or ring. On the other hand, if you’re looking for long-term contraception, LARCs offer years of protection without daily upkeep. For those seeking permanent solutions, we can discuss procedures like tubal ligation.

Finding the right birth control for you

Every person’s needs and preferences are unique, and what works best for one woman may not be ideal for another. Consulting with our professional team can help you weigh the pros and cons of each method and find the one that aligns with your lifestyle, health, and future goals.

We here at Women’s Care of Beverly Hills are ready to help you. Call today or make an appointment online if you’re considering birth control options or need support in other aspects of your gynecological health.