Birth Control Services Questions and Answers

Birth control, commonly referred to as contraception, is any method used to prevent conception, or pregnancy. Birth control comes in many forms, including oral medications, injections, patches, surgery, implantable devices, spermicide, diaphragms, cervical caps, and both internal and external condoms.

The need for birth control is different for every individual and can range from the prevention of sexually transmitted infections to preventing conception, or becoming pregnant. When preventing the transmission of STIs, only birth control methods that provide a physical barrier (such as condoms and dental dams) are effective, as most sexually transmitted infections are spread through skin-to-skin contact and through the exchange of bodily fluids, such as semen and blood. However, if birth control is needed to prevent getting pregnant, there are more effective methods than physical barriers, such as IUDs (intrauterine devices), and implantable devices that prevent ovulation (and therefore pregnancy).

Birth control works in a variety of different ways, although they each share one common goal: to prevent pregnancy. Some are needed to be used every time (during, before or after intercourse), some require a regular schedule, including daily, weekly or monthly, some are low maintenance, and others are permanent. The following birth control methods work by:

Condoms/Dental Dams — These prevent sperm from entering the cervix by way of a physical barrier, typically latex, polyisoprene or polyurethane.

Spermicides — Killing sperm on contact, a spermicide can be used on its own or with other devices, such as a cervical cap, diaphragm or sponge.

Shots — Uses an injection of progestin that prevents ovulation, thereby preventing pregnancy.

Rings — An insertable ring that contains progesterone and estrogen, these prevent ovulation and therefore conception.

Patches — These are adhered to the skin and release hormones to prevent ovulation, and therefore impregnation.

Pills — These oral medications are taken daily and contain either estrogen and progestin (combination pill) or only progestin (mini pill).

Implants — These are small plastic rods that are inserted subcutaneously (under the skin). They release progestin, which blocks eggs from being released, so they cannot become fertilized and lead to pregnancy.

IUDs — Intrauterine devices come in two main types: copper and hormonal. Copper IUDs are small, T-shaped devices that are inserted into the uterus to deter sperm, as sperm do not like copper. Hormonal IUDs are also inserted into the uterus but instead of using copper, they release a small amount of progestin, which prevents ovulation, making pregnancy impossible (although no birth control method is 100% effective). Hormonal IUDs can be effective for 3 to 7 years at a time, while copper IUDs can remain efficacious for up to 12 years.

Vasectomy — This surgical procedure severs the vas deferens, the tubes that carry the sperm from the testes to the penis.

Tubal Ligation — Colloquially referred to as ‘tube tying,’ this surgical procedure cuts, ties or blocks the fallopian tubes, which transport eggs from the ovaries to the uterus.

Dr. Beyerlein will be able to help you decide which form of birth control is best for you based on a number of different factors including your current relationships, age, desire to have children in the future, and lifestyle considerations. Some of the most popular forms of contraception include oral medication, intrauterine devices, an implant, hormonal patches, and prophylactics such as latex condoms. Some of these methods protect against sexually transmitted disease, while others are only able to prevent pregnancy, which can be an important factor for many women who are deciding which method is best for them. Dr. Beyerlein offers exceptional insight and support, so you can choose a form of contraception that is exactly right for your unique needs.

If you or someone you love needs birth control, come to Dr. Richard Beyerlein today. Our kind and compassionate professionals are experienced providers of many different forms of birth control, so you can find the option that best suits your unique needs. Call us today to book an appointment to learn more about our birth control options, or visit our clinic conveniently located at 911 Country Club Rd. Suite 222, Eugene, OR 97401. Our office is open five days a week, from Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. We look forward to serving you! We serve patients from Eugene OR, Springfield OR, Coburg OR, Creswell OR, Cottage Grove OR, Lowell OR, and Junction City OR.