Persons with Female Anatomy Can Choose Between Several Hormonal Birth Control Options

There are many reasons why a person would want, or need to, use hormonal birth control.

Hormonal options include:

·       birth control pills

·       hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs)

·       patches

·       rings

·       arm implant (Nexplanon)

Some of the reasons to use birth control may be related to pelvic-floor conditions and/or gynecological issues. Hormonal options have similar but different manners of working. Most importantly, all are effective options.

Birth control pills contain progesterone and often estrogen. When taken daily, as directed by prescription instructions, they are highly effective. They work systemically by changing, reducing or eliminating the uterine lining, and stopping ovulation. There are several types of oral birth control pills, varying in their amount of progesterone and estrogen. Oral birth control pills are often prescribed to improve or alleviate symptoms associated with menstrual cycles or other gynecological conditions.

Hormonal IUD’s work locally in the uterus by changing, reducing or eliminating the uterine lining. They typically do not stop someone from ovulating, and they are progesterone-based. Brands have minor differences. For example, the length of time, three to eight years, they can remain inserted before needing to be removed by a healthcare provider.

Nexplanon works systemically over time by releasing a form of progesterone, called progestin, into the blood stream. Progestin prevents ovulation and may create changes such as thickening of cervical mucus that will prevent the travel of sperm through the cervix/vagina. An arm implant can be effective for five years before needing to be removed by a healthcare provider.

In some cases, a person may use multiple forms of hormonal birth control due to their unique health needs. Regardless of the hormonal birth controls you choose, it is important to speak to your gynecological provider when deciding which option, if any, is best for you. Remember, everyone’s situation is unique.

Contact Solstice Physiotherapy at 929-269-2505 or info@solsticept.com to schedule a free 15-minute consultation to discuss your personal concerns or questions.