Our San Antonio OBGYNs help you explore all options
Women of all ages come to Live Oak Women’s Health wanting birth control to prevent unplanned pregnancy. Our experienced and compassionate San Antonio OGBYN team not only helps women navigate the many contraception options, but also asks the right questions to empower patients to make the best decisions.
Not all options are the same
There is no single “best option” for birth control. Our San Antonio OBGYN team recognizes that there is no single answer to prevent pregnancy. Our physicians take the time to talk to each patient and get a full picture of why and how long you might need birth control, as well as your medical history. It is important to have an open discussion with a trusted provider to ensure that your choice reflects your personality and lifestyle.
Our San Antonio OBGYNs ask many questions to help you choose the method that’s right for you.
- Do you think you want to have children someday? If so, how soon?
- How important is effectiveness to you?
- How much effort do you want to put into your method of birth control? Can you reliably take or use a birth control method regularly, or would you prefer to not have to think about it?
- How frequently do you have sex, and with how many partners?
- What health conditions need to be considered?
- Is cost a consideration?
Types of birth control tailored to you
Based on thoughtful consideration, you can make an informed decision with your San Antonio OBGYN about the best birth control for you.
- Barrier birth control. Use of condoms, the sponge or a diaphragm can prevent sperm from fertilizing an egg. These must be used every time you have sex. For those with multiple partners, condom use can help prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- Short-acting hormonal methods. These methods are best for women who can reliably take birth control because they must remember to use or take them on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. This would include birth control pills, the vaginal ring, the skin patch and contraceptive injections. These methods prevent your ovaries from releasing an egg or eggs to be fertilized.
- Long-acting hormonal methods. Our San Antonio OGBYN team might recommend a long-acting option for women who want reversible, longer-term protection against pregnancy. Devices such as an IUD, contraceptive implant or contraceptive injection typically last between three and 10 years, or until they are removed. These methods are associated with lower pregnancy rates because they require less effort.
If you need access to birth control, make an appointment with one of our San Antonio OBGYN providers, who will listen and help you make an informed decision about which option is most reliable and comfortable for you.
