IUD - Intrauterine Device
The intrauterine device (IUD) is a type of birth control. It is a small, plastic device that is inserted and left inside the uterus to prevent pregnancy.
Although there have been several types of IUDs, currently only two are available in the United States: the hormonal IUD and the copper IUD. The hormonal IUD must be replaced every 5 years. The copper IUD can remain in your body for as long as 10 years. As soon as the IUD is removed, it no longer protects against pregnancy.
For more information, visit ACOG's page on IUD Devices.
Implanon
If you are looking for a method of contraception that does not require daily, weekly or monthly dosing, then this may be an option for you. IMPLANON is a flexible rod the size of a matchstick that is put under the skin of your arm in an in-office procedure and lasts up to 3 years.
For more information, visit the official IMPLANON website.
Birth Control Pills
Birth control pills are used by millions of women all over the world. The pill contains synthetic (man-made) hormones that are like the ones made by your body. The hormones in the pill prevent an egg from being released from the ovaries. Without an egg, pregnancy cannot occur. The pill is one of the most popular and effective birth control methods.
For more information, feel free to discuss it with our providers or visit ACOG's page on Birth Control Pills.
DepoProvera
Depo Provera (also known as DMPA or Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate) is a hormone injection that lasts for 3 months to prevent pregnancy. The injection contains synthetic progesterone and no estrogen. It is usually given in the the arm, hip, upper thigh, or abdomen, delivering a high level of progesterone into the body. Depo Provera stops the ovaries from releasing eggs. Depo Provera causes the cervical mucus to thicken and changes the uterine lining, making it harder for sperm to enter or survive in the uterus. These changes prevent fertilization. Depo Provera is a very private form of birth control because it cannot be seen on the body and requires no home supplies. It does, however, require a clinic appointment every 3 months.
Visit FWHC's website to learn more about Depo Provera
Nuva Ring
NuvaRing® is a comfortable, flexible ring about 2” in diameter. You insert it into your vagina once a month* — the exact position isn’t important for it to work. Once inside, NuvaRing® releases a continuous low dose of hormones to prevent pregnancy. NuvaRing® is as effective as the Pill when used as directed, but you don’t have to take it every day. You leave NuvaRing® in place for 3 weeks, then remove it for a 1-week ring-free period. You should get your period during this “week off.” (Using NuvaRing® as prescribed, you will continue to be protected from pregnancy during the ring-free week.) Exactly 1 week after you take NuvaRing® out, you insert a new one.
Talk to your doctor about Nuva Ring or visit Nuva Ring's website to learn more.