Hormonal Methods Of Birth Control | Her Smart Choice
Choosing a birth control method can be an overwhelming task. However, more and more women are choosing to use hormonal methods of birth control.
While these methods are highly effective in preventing pregnancy, they can also have a variety of other effects on the body that you need to be aware of.
In this article, we will explore some of the beyond-the-basic aspects of hormonal birth control methods.
Birth Control Implant
The birth control implant is a type of long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) that provides highly effective, hormone-based birth control.
It is a small rod-shaped device that is surgically inserted into the upper arm and can remain in place for up to five years. The implant releases the hormone progestin into the body that prevents ovulation and thickens cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to reach the egg.
The implant typically lasts between three and five years, depending on the type.
What Are Side Effects?
The birth control implant can cause some mild side effects, such as irregular bleeding, acne, mood swings, headaches, breast tenderness, and weight changes.
In some cases, prolonged or excessive bleeding may occur. Women who experience prolonged or excessive bleeding should contact their healthcare provider for an evaluation of the underlying cause.
IUD With Progestin
IUD with progestin is a long-acting, reversible form of contraception that can provide effective birth control for up to 5 years. It is a small device that is inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider.
It works by releasing the hormone progestin which thickens the cervical mucus and prevents sperm from reaching an egg.
What Are Side Effects?
Side effects of using an IUD with progestin as a form of birth control can vary from person to person.
Some people experience mild side effects such as irregular periods, breast tenderness, bloating, nausea, and headaches. These side effects usually subside after the first 3 months of use.
Injectable Birth Control
Injectable birth control is a method of contraception that involves the injection of progestin, a synthetic form of progesterone, into the body to prevent conception.
It works by suppressing ovulation, making it difficult for sperm to reach and fertilize an egg. It also makes the uterine lining less hospitable for an implant.
What Are Side Effects?
Injectable birth control is an effective and convenient method of contraception; however, it can come with some side effects that should be kept in mind when considering its use.
Common side effects associated with injectable birth control include weight gain, irregular menstrual cycles, acne, mood swings, headaches, breast tenderness, nausea, and bloating.
Birth Control Pills
Birth control pills, also known as oral contraceptives, are a very popular and effective method of hormonal birth control.
The pills contain synthetic forms of the hormones estrogen and progesterone, which work to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary).
What Are Side Effects?
Birth control pills have some potential side effects, although they are generally mild and not long-lasting.
Common side effects include nausea, headaches, breast tenderness, missed periods, spotting between periods, changes in sex drive, and mood swings.
These side effects usually get better over time as the body adjusts to the hormones.
Vaginal Rings
Vaginal rings are a type of hormonal birth control that provides a safe and effective way to prevent pregnancy.
The ring is inserted into the vagina, where it releases both estrogen and progestin hormones each day for up to 3 weeks, after which it must be removed and replaced with a new one.
What Are Side Effects?
Vaginal rings are an effective and convenient form of hormonal birth control. The ring is inserted into the vagina, where it releases both estrogen and progestin hormones each day for up to three weeks.
This helps to prevent pregnancy primarily by thickening the cervical mucus to block sperm from entering the uterus, as well as by preventing it.
Birth Control Skin Patches
Birth control skin patches are a form of hormonal contraception that is applied directly to the skin, usually on the upper arm, abdomen, or buttocks.
The patch contains a combination of synthetic versions of the hormones estrogen and progestin which are released through the skin into the bloodstream over time.
What Are Side Effects?
Birth control skin patches may cause some side effects, including changes in mood or libido, breast tenderness, nausea and vomiting, headaches, irregular bleeding or spotting between periods, and skin irritation or redness where the patch is applied.
Other more serious side effects could include blood clots, a stroke, or an allergic reaction.
With so many different types of hormonal methods available, it’s important to take the time to research and consider all your options before making a decision.
Where to Get More Information..
For more information on the various types of hormonal birth control methods, it is recommended to speak with a women’s health clinic. They can provide more detailed advice and information about the potential risks and side effects associated with each method.
Additionally, they can discuss other factors that may impact the effectiveness of a particular method such as age, medical history, and your lifestyle.
