Choosing the right birth control for your body is no simple task. With over 12 different options out there and more on the way as new technologies develop, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for you. Ideally, you want to get it right on the first try and not have to keep going back to your gynecologist’s office to try a new method. So let’s start with two of the most popular options.
The Basics: IUD vs. Birth Control Pill
These two contraceptives often give the same results using the same hormones—their main differences lie in how they will fit your lifestyle. If you’re looking for an extremely low-maintenance contraceptive that lasts a long time, an IUD might be right for you. If you’re looking for something more traditional and perhaps less expensive for you and your insurance to cover, The Pill might be better for you. Here are the key differences in how these two contraceptives work.
Intrauterine Device
An IUD, or intrauterine device, are small devices made of flexible plastic used as long-acting, reversible forms of birth control. This device prevents the fertilization of eggs in the uterus for a specified period of time, depending on the form of IUD you choose. Our medical professionals perform the insertion and removal of the “T” shaped IUD at Dr. Susan Fox’s Center for Women.
We have various IUD options for our patients to choose from at our office. They are all safe, effective, and reversible but offer different advantages. For a complete list of IUD options we offer, visit our website.
IUD Side Effects
Many women opt to use an IUD instead of birth control pills as an IUD does not require any form of daily intake or maintenance. IUD users find comfort in knowing that a reliable form of birth control is always in place and cannot be deterred by forgetfulness. All of our IUD products have been tested and approved, causing only minor side effects in most women. Some of these side effects may include:
- Pelvic pain or cramping
- Irregular menstrual bleeding
- Swelling or inflammation
- Nausea
- Breast tenderness
- Weight fluctuation
- Acne
- Fatigue
If any of the above symptoms worsen or progress, you should contact our offices immediately.
When deciding on the IUD vs the birth control pill as your main form of contraception, our medical professionals will consult with you first and determine the best option for you.
Birth Control Pill
When you take the pill, it works like other hormonal contraceptives, stopping the body from ovulating. They also change the cervical mucus to make it difficult for the sperm to go through the cervix and find an egg. They can also prevent pregnancy by changing the womb lining, so it’s unlikely the fertilized egg will be implanted.
Most people in the U.S. who are on the pill take the combination pill. Estrogen and progesterone stop your ovaries from releasing eggs, and they make changes in your cervix and uterus that lower your chance of a pregnancy. The Pill is typically 91% – 99% effective against pregnancy when using the contraceptive correctly.
Side Effects of The Pill
Some of the symptoms and side effects of the hormonal contraceptive pill include but are not limited to:
- Spotting or bleeding between periods
- Nausea
- Tender breasts
- Headache
- Higher risk of blood clots and high blood pressure
When deciding whether to go with an IUD vs. a birth control pill, your gynecologist or OB/GYN should discuss your lifestyle and what your body needs to determine which option is right for you. Schedule a consultation with us right here on our site! We’re so excited to help you through this process.
