Choosing birth control is a personal decision. You may care most about avoiding daily reminders, using a method without hormones, managing bleeding changes or being able to stop when you are ready.
A counseling visit gives you a chance to compare those priorities with the benefits and limitations of different methods.
Contraception includes pills, patches, vaginal rings, injections, implants, intrauterine devices (IUDs), barrier methods and permanent methods. Some require a prescription or procedure; others are used each time you have sex.
Ask about effectiveness with everyday use, side effects, cost and what is involved in starting or stopping. A discussion of a method does not mean it is the best choice for you.
Bring a list of medicines and describe relevant conditions, previous side effects and pregnancy or feeding plans. Some methods may be unsuitable with particular medical conditions. Your provider can help explain how that affects the options.
Before making a change, ask when protection begins and whether you need a backup method. Make sure you know what to do about missed doses or problems using the method. If you are considering an IUD or implant, ask about the procedure, discomfort management and removal.
Emergency contraception may be an option after unprotected sex or a contraceptive failure. Seek advice promptly from a healthcare professional or pharmacist, because timing affects the available choices. It is a separate discussion from choosing ongoing contraception.
Write down what you liked or disliked about previous methods. You can ask questions before choosing, and you can return to the conversation if your needs change.
Yes. Examples include condoms and the copper IUD. Methods differ in effectiveness, how they are used and possible effects on bleeding. Ask which options fit your preferences and health history.
Most methods do not. Condoms can reduce the risk of many sexually transmitted infections and may be used alongside another contraceptive method.
Tell your provider what is bothering you and whether you want to change methods. Ask how to switch without a gap in protection and whether backup contraception is needed.
