Is MonaLisa TouchⓇ Right for Me?
The MonaLisa Touch procedure is an effective way to restore lubrication and elasticity to your vaginal tissues. Here’s when to consider it.
Is It Time to Reevaluate Your Birth Control for the New Year?
You trust your birth control to prevent a pregnancy that may not fit into your life at this time. You might not want kids at all. In any case, it’s important to trust your chosen birth control method so you can have a fulfilling sex life without worrying about unexpected pregnancies.
Not all birth control methods will align with your lifestyle, preferences, or biology. If you’re unhappy with your current birth control method for any reason, you can reach out to Gary Willen, MD, to review alternative choices.
At Tahoe Women’s Care in Carson City, Nevada, Dr. Willen carefully considers your needs and preferences while recommending family planning strategies. No matter why you’re considering a switch, he can help you choose your best option.
Why make a change?
There are many reasons why you might be dissatisfied with the birth control method you currently use.
Some common reasons for changing birth control include:
- Unwanted side effects
- Poor effectiveness
- Inconvenient method of using your birth control
- You consistently forget to take or use your birth control
- Your periods have changed and you’re concerned
- Your family planning goals have changed
In addition to these issues, if your current birth control method isn’t easily reversible and you want to get pregnant soon or are on the fence, you might consider switching to a method you can more easily stop or reverse.
Reviewing your options
Your situation is unique, and your choice of birth control is a personal one. With Dr. Willen’s help, you can decide on a trustworthy birth control method that you can useconsistently and easily. He can tell you more about:
The pill
The pill, or oral contraceptive, is an oral medication you take daily to prevent pregnancy. It uses hormones, so you might experience side effects. Still, it’s about 99% effective and easy to stop taking if you want to get pregnant.
Intrauterine device (IUD)
An IUD sits in the uterus to prevent pregnancy in a couple of ways. Some IUDs are hormonal and prevent ovulation, while others are spermicidal (the copper IUD) and prevent pregnancy by killing sperm. Most work for a number years before they need to be replaced.
The implant
Nexplanon® is a tiny, matchstick-sized implant placed under your skin on your upper arm. It releases hormones to stop ovulation and prevent pregnancy for up to five years. You don’t need to remember to use it daily or monthly, but if you decide you want to get pregnant, you need to come in for removal.
Injections
You can get hormonal injections every few months to keep you from getting pregnant, and stop them when you’re ready.
Barrier methods
Barrier methods create a physical blockade between sperm and your uterus. Think of a condom: Sperm can’t permeate the rubber, and therefore can’t reach the egg. Diaphragms and sponges use similar methods.
Spermicide
Spermicides, like the copper IUD or insertable suppositories or gel products, kill sperm before they can fertilize an egg.
How we can help
Dr. Willen is here to answer your questions about birth control and help you make a meaningful change. To learn more about your birth control options, call Tahoe Women’s Care or request an appointment online today.
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