Birth Control

Birth control, also called contraception, is a tool that prevents pregnancy. It includes medications, devices, procedures, and fertility awareness-based methods. Some forms of birth control also protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Though you have many options for birth control, some methods are more effective than others. Additionally, some forms of birth control help manage gynecological conditions like abnormal bleeding, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and endometriosis.

Federal Way Women’s Health Care offers many birth control options. Some of the types available include:

Birth control pill

The birth control pill is a short-acting hormonal birth control. They contain hormones that prevent your ovaries from releasing an egg (ovulation). If you don’t ovulate, you can’t get pregnant. 

You must take your birth control pill as prescribed (usually daily) in order for it to be most effective.

Birth control shot

The birth control shot is also a short-acting hormonal form of birth control and works like the birth control pill. However, you only need one injection every three months to prevent pregnancy. The team at Federal Way Women’s Health Care provides the birth control shot at the office.

Birth control patch

The birth control patch contains hormones that prevent ovulation and pregnancy. For this type of birth control, you place one patch on your skin every week as prescribed by your provider.

Intrauterine device (IUD)

An IUD is a long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC). It’s a device your provider at Federal Way Women’s Health Care places in your uterus to prevent pregnancy. 

There are two types of IUDs: hormonal and non-hormonal. The hormonal IUD contains hormones that prevent pregnancy, while the non-hormonal IUD is made of copper, which is a natural spermicide. 

Once in place, an IUD prevents pregnancy for three to 10 years. It’s one of the most effective forms of birth control.

The team at Federal Way Women’s Health Care takes a patient-centered approach to care. When you come in for a birth control consultation, they ask about your current and future pregnancy plans, gynecological and medical history, and your sexual activity.

Then, they talk with you about the types of birth control available and how they work so you can decide what method makes the best choice for you.

To determine the best approach to your birth control concerns and needs, call Federal Way Women’s Health Care or schedule an appointment online today.