Contraceptives
Contraceptives can be used to prevent unintended pregnancy, regulate periods, manage excessive bleeding and pain, or aide your menopausal transition. But deciding which form of contraception is right for you can be overwhelming.
That's why the team at Oxford Clinic for Women is here to help you navigate your options. Through a shared decision-making approach, our consultations are designed to help you understand the types of contraceptives, including benefits, level of effectiveness and potential side effects. We also take the time to learn your needs and preferences and address any questions you have so that you can make an informed decision about which contraceptive is right for you.
FAQs
+ What are contraceptives?
Also known as birth control, contraceptives are designed to prevent unintentional pregnancy, but are used for many other reasons as well. There are several types of contraception that work in different ways. Some prevent sperm from reaching the egg, some prevent ovaries from releasing eggs in the first place and some make implantation of the egg in the uterus unlikely. You can discuss with your provider which method of pregnancy prevention best fits your needs.
+ How effective are contraceptives?
Efficacy rates vary between methods. Although abstinence is the only 100% effective form of contraception, long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) have been found to be 99% effective or greater. More common methods like the pill and shot are between 91%-94% effective and, the more consistent you are with them, the more effective they are. Condoms, spermicide, sponges, withdrawal and fertility awareness are all less effective.
+ What are some common side effects?
There is no single answer, since each contraceptive method has its own side effect profile. The exact effects will vary from method to method and person to person, so a conversation with your doctor will be most informative. Side effects some people experience, however, include spotting between periods, nausea, breast tenderness, headaches or migraines, weight gain, mood changes, missed periods, decreased libido and vaginal discharge.
+ Can contraceptives prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?
Only condoms have been proven to reduce the risk of getting some STIs.
+ Will contraceptives cause infertility?
Most contraceptives have no impact on fertility. The exceptions are the Depo-Provera shot, which can have a short-term effect on fertility for up to a year and a half, and permanent sterilization, which can impact fertility in the long term.
+ Can contraceptives interfere with other drugs?
Contraceptives do not typically pose problems when combined with other drugs, although there are a few uncommonly prescribed medicines that can interact with and decrease the efficacy of contraceptives. Tobacco products are one other major exception. We do not recommend smoking while taking estrogen-containing contraceptives. To be as safe as possible, keep an up-to-date medication list and bring it to your consultation so our physicians can assess any risks.
